Building Contractor License
A building contractor's license is necessary for anyone who wants to be a professional contractor. Without a license, contractors may incur fines or find themselves unable to sue in case they are not paid. Contractors must be licensed in the states where they work.General Requirements
Each state has different requirements, but they all have several things in common. Most of them expect the following of a contractor:
- A required written test based on construction law, business, and skills.
- Proof of financial ability to maintain a company.
- Letters of recommendation from bankers, engineers, architects, and customers.
- Experience in their areas of skill. For example, California requires at least 4 years of experience at a non-trainee level.
Other general requirements may include:
- At least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or the equivalent.
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency.
- Documentation on any other occupational license you hold in the state.
- Two passport-size photos.
- If there are any citations, violations, or liens from construction work, you must explain them.
Penalties
More than merely incurring fines, contractors may be charged with felonies. This applies to those who contract without a license for any project that is covered by a state of emergency or disaster proclaimed by the Governor of California or the President of the United States. Convictions may result in jail time. This is to protect people from unscrupulous contractors in times after emergencies, like wildfires, that cause widespread home damage.