Licensing Guides
State Roofing License: How to Become a Roofing Contractor in Washington DC
Roofing, DC
Table of Contents
Roofing License Requirements in Washington, D.C.
Who Issues Roofing Licenses in Washington, D.C.?
Types of Roofing Licenses in Washington, D.C.
Steps to Get a Roofing License in Washington, D.C.
How Much Does it Cost to Get a Roofing License in Washington, D.C.?
How Long Does it Take to Get a Roofing License in Washington, D.C.?
Washington, D.C. Roofer Training Programs and Schools
Washington, D.C. Roofing Licensing Exam Details
Do I Need to Renew My Washington, D.C. Roofing License?
Continuing Education
Does Washington, D.C. Reciprocate Roofing Licenses?
National Roofing Certifications
We all need a good roof over our heads, so the people who build and maintain that part of our homes need to know what they’re doing. Many states require roofers to be licensed. Others simply require proof of insurance coverage to back up that essential work.
There are 168,100 roofers nationwide, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), and Washington, D.C., employs 90 of them. The national number is projected to grow 6% by 2033, adding more than 13,000 of these skilled workers to the ranks. According to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the growth rate is projected at 0% in the District of Columbia.
If you’re thinking about starting a roofing contracting business or you want a job in the roofing industry, you need to know the requirements and licensing process in your state or local jurisdiction. This guide will help you determine what you need to get started in the District of Columbia.
Roofing License Requirements in Washington, D.C.
In Washington, D.C., contractors and subcontractors performing work in the District must have a Basic Business License (BBL). In the construction field, the two types of licenses include a general contractor/construction manager license or a home improvement contractor license.
The Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) sets out the requirements for general contractors and home improvement contractors on its business licensing page. General contractors and home improvement contractors are considered regulated businesses and have different licensing requirements.
Who Issues Roofing Licenses in Washington, D.C.?
The Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection issues general contractor/construction manager licenses and home improvement contractor licenses.
Types of Roofing Licenses in Washington, D.C.
While the District of Columbia does not issue specific licenses for roofing contractors, it issues these two types of contractor licenses:
General Contractor/Construction Manager License: For individuals or businesses engaged in general contracting or construction management. The license is issued as a general business endorsement to a Basic Business License.
This license offers several classifications depending on the monetary amount of a single contract. General contractor and construction manager license classifications include:
Class A: No limit to contract amount.
Class B: Not more than $10 million for one contract.
Class C: Not more than $5 million for one contract.
Class D: Not more than $2 million for one contract.
Class E: Not more than $500,000 for one contract.
Home Improvement Contractor License: For businesses engaged in repair, remodeling, alteration, conversion, modernization, or additions to residential property. This license requires contractors to maintain a Basic Business License for at least one home improvement salesperson, which is a person authorized to sign business contracts.
The District of Columbia Board of Industrial Trades regulates the professional licensing of other trades, including:
Electricians
Steam and operating engineers
Plumbers and gasfitters
Refrigeration and air conditioning (HVAC)
For more information on business licensing in the District of Columbia, visit the DCLP’s FAQ page.
Steps to Get a Roofing License in Washington, D.C.
To get a general contractor or home improvement contractor license in Washington, D.C., you’ll need to follow the district’s licensing process.
Follow these steps to get a general contractor/construction manager license:
Obtain a certificate of liability insurance based on the license classification. Minimum coverage requirements include: Class A: Commercial general liability insurance coverage of $2.5 million per occurrence, primary or umbrella, for bodily injury and property damage. Class B: Commercial general liability insurance coverage of $1.5 million per occurrence, primary or umbrella, for bodily injury and property damage. Class C: Commercial general liability insurance coverage of $500,000 per occurrence and $1 million in the aggregate combined single limit for bodily injury or property damage. Class D: Liability insurance coverage of $500,000 per occurrence and $1 million in the aggregate combined single limit for bodily injury or property damage. Class E: Liability insurance coverage of $500,000 per occurrence for bodily injury or property damage. In addition, the insurer must be authorized to insure in the District and have a credit rating of B+ or higher by A.M Best Co., evidencing commercial general liability, according to insurance requirements.
Apply for a Certificate of Occupancy/Home Occupation Permit with the DC Department of Buildings to operate from a commercial location or a residential space.
Apply for corporate registration, if applicable. If the business entity is a corporation, limited liability company, or partnership, show proof of registration and good standing with the District of Columbia Corporations Division.
Submit two pre-printed contracts in at least triplicate, on a form complying with District code and municipal regulations.
Provide a registered tax number, such as a Social Security Number or a Federal Employment Identification Number. Complete tax registration with the Office of Tax and Revenue.
Request a Certificate of Clean Hands to certify the applicant owes no more than $100 to the District for fees, penalties, interest, or taxes.
Apply online through My DC Business Center. Applicants will need to create an Access DC account. Applicants may also apply for a Basic Business License in person by visiting the DLCP Business License Center, 1100 4th Street, SW, 2nd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20024. Applicants use a kiosk to apply for a business license online and pay by credit or debit card. No appointments are required.
Pay the $654.50 fee.
Follow these steps to get a home improvement contractor’s license:
Obtain liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $50,000 for bodily injury or death of any one person in any single accident, $100,000 in the aggregate for more than one person in any single accident, and $10,000 property damage in any single accident.
Apply for a Certificate of Occupancy/Home Occupation Permit with the DC Department of Buildings to operate from a commercial location or a residential space.
Apply for corporate registration, if applicable. If the business is a corporation, limited liability company, or partnership, show proof of registration and good standing with the District of Columbia Corporations Division.
Submit two pre-printed home improvement contracts in at least triplicate, on a form complying with District code and municipal regulations. The DLCP provides contractors with a sample home improvement contract.
Complete the home improvement salesperson designation letter designating the contractor or specific individuals who are authorized to sign business contracts.
Provide a certified copy of a police criminal history report from the applicant’s jurisdiction of residence.
Meet bond requirements by posting a $25,000 home improvement surety bond for the two-year license period. An authorized insurance carrier may issue the bond or the applicant may post a cash bond with the DLCP.
Provide a registered tax number, such as a Social Security Number or a Federal Employment Identification Number. Complete tax registration with the Office of Tax and Revenue.
Request a Certificate of Clean Hands to certify the applicant owes no more than $100 to the District for fees, penalties, interest, or taxes.
Apply online through My DC Business Center. Applicants will need to create an Access DC account. Applicants may also apply for a Basic Business License in person by visiting the DLCP Business License Center, 1100 4th Street, SW, 2nd Floor, Washington, DC 20024. Applicants use a kiosk to apply for a business license online and pay by credit or debit card. No appointments are required.
Pay the $288.20 fee.
The home improvement contractor license also requires a home improvement salesperson to maintain a Basic Business License. To get this, follow these steps:
Submit three digital passport photographs.
Provide a copy of the applicant’s driver’s license or non-driver’s identification.
Provide a notarized affidavit certifying the applicant will be employed by a regulated business.
Complete the home improvement salesperson designation letter designating the contractor or specific individuals who are authorized to sign business contracts.
Provide a certified copy of a police criminal history report from the applicant’s jurisdiction of residence.
Pay the $154 fee.
Apply online through My DC Business Center. Applicants will need to create an Access DC account. Applicants may also apply for a Basic Business License in person by visiting the DLCP Business License Center, 1100 4th Street, SW, 2nd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20024. Applicants use a kiosk to apply for a business license online and pay by credit or debit card. No appointments are required.
What Business Owners Need to Know
Getting the most out of a roofing technician, no matter where they are in their licensing journey, takes work. ServiceTitan’s cloud-based, all-in-one roofing software gives technicians and business owners the technology they need to do the work efficiently, and the data they need to do it smartly.
ServiceTitan features:
SMS communications that keep customers informed about the technician’s visit
Location-specific service history, including recorded calls, accessible from the mobile app
Required forms that ensure every job is done right, driving consistency
The ability to build multi-option proposals with photos, on-site, in minutes
Sales presentations that make conversations with customers easier and drive the average ticket
Mobile payment acceptance, eliminating lost checks and increasing cash flow
To learn more, schedule a demo with a product expert today.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Roofing License in Washington, D.C.?
The cost to get a contractor license in Washington, D.C., depends on the type of license. Each license has its own requirements and fees.
It costs $654.50 for a general contractor/construction manager license. A home improvement contractor license costs $288.20. The home improvement contractor license also requires the business to designate a home improvement salesperson to maintain a Basic Business License. The home improvement salesperson fee is $154.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Roofing License in Washington, D.C.?
Applying online and in person is encouraged and results in the fastest turnaround, according to District information. Processing times for mailed basic business license applications take up to 30 business days.
Washington, D.C., Roofer Training Programs and Schools
Since there are no higher education requirements for a roofing license in Washington, D.C., people entering the roofing field can choose to learn on the job or complete an apprenticeship program. If you choose to start your career path at a college or university, you can pursue a degree in construction management or construction engineering. There are several higher-education options throughout Washington, D.C. and the surrounding area offering these types of programs, including:
Capitol Technology University | Laurel, Maryland | BS in Construction Management — 4 years
Northern Virginia Community College | Alexandria, Virginia | AAS in Construction Management Technology — 2 years
University of the District of Columbia | Washington, D.C. | AAS in Construction Management — 2 years
Washington, D.C., Roofing Licensing Exam Details
The District of Columbia does not require general contractors or home improvement contractors to pass an exam.
Do I Need to Renew My Washington, D.C. Roofing License?
Yes. Licensed contractors must renew licenses before the expiration date. They can renew their licenses starting 90 days before expiration, which is based on the issue date.
General contractor/construction manager license:
Cost: $654.50 for a two-year license
Filing method: Online
Home improvement contractor license:
Cost: $288.20 for a two-year license
Filing method: Online
The DLCP lists renewal information on its renewal overview page.
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Continuing Education
The District of Columbia does not have continuing education requirements for general contractors or home improvement contractors before renewing their licenses.
Does Washington, D.C., Reciprocate Roofing Licenses?
No, the District of Columbia does not hold reciprocal agreements with other states for general contractor and home improvement licenses.
National and State Roofing Certifications
Other certifications help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients. The National Association of Roofing Contractors offers certification. Professional certifications are not required but can add to your marketability and therefore increase your opportunity to make more money.
You can also learn more about certification and roofing in Washington, D.C., through construction industry associations. This includes:
Resources
You can stay up to date on all roofing industry news several ways:
Check top roofing blogs, including ServiceTitan’s blog.
Read about the latest industry trends, and discover ideas on how to grow your roofing business.
Listen to top roofing podcasts like ServiceTitan’s “Toolbox for the Trades” podcast.
Washington, D.C., has licensing requirements for other trades, too. You can find out more about how to get an HVAC, plumbing, or electrician license in the District of Columbia or in any of the 50 states through the ServiceTitan Licensing Hub.
