Contractor License Types
General Contractor License
Required for construction projects over $1,000 in most states
Cost
$500 - $2,000
Timeline
3-6 months
Requirements:
- 4 years of journeyman-level experience
- Pass trade and business/law exams
- General liability insurance ($1M+)
- Workers compensation insurance
Class A Builder License
Unlimited construction value - highest contractor classification
Cost
$1,000 - $3,500
Timeline
4-8 months
Requirements:
- 5+ years of construction experience
- Financial stability documentation
- Net worth requirements ($45,000+)
- Pass Class A specific exam
Electrical Contractor License
Required for all electrical work beyond basic repairs
Cost
$400 - $1,500
Timeline
3-5 months
Requirements:
- 4 years electrical trade experience
- Master electrician certification
- Electrical theory and code exam
- OSHA 10 or 30 certification
Plumbing Contractor License
Required for all plumbing work in residential and commercial
Cost
$350 - $1,200
Timeline
3-5 months
Requirements:
- 4 years plumbing experience
- Journeyman plumber license (usually required first)
- Plumbing code and trade exam
- Backflow prevention certification
Federal Certifications
These certifications give you priority access to federal and VA contracts. All are FREE to apply and can be worth millions in contract opportunities.
Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB)
51%+ owned and controlled by veteran
Key Benefits:
- Set-aside contracts
- Sole-source awards
- Mentorship programs
Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned (SDVOSB)
Veteran with service-connected disability owns 51%+
Key Benefits:
- 3% federal contracting goal
- Priority in VA contracting
- Exclusive access to SDVOSB contracts
SBA 8(a) Business Development
9-year program for disadvantaged businesses
Key Benefits:
- $4M sole-source contracts
- Mentorship from large firms
- Business development assistance
HUBZone Certification
Business in Historically Underutilized Business Zone
Key Benefits:
- 10% price evaluation preference
- Set-aside contracts
- Subcontracting opportunities
State Licensing Boards
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License Exam Funding Resources
GI Bill®
Use your GI Bill benefits for approved license and certification prep programs.
Check eligibility →VR&E (Chapter 31)
Service-disabled vets may qualify for full exam fee coverage and prep course costs.
Apply through VA →State Programs
Many states offer fee waivers or reduced rates for veteran license applications.
Find your state →