Virginia Paving Contractor License: Requirements, Exams & Application Guide

From residential driveways to commercial parking lots and public roads, asphalt and paving contractors literally lay the groundwork for daily life in Virginia. If you're a professional in this trade, you know that quality work speaks for itself. But to truly grow your business, bid on larger projects, and establish your credibility, you need a Virginia Paving and Asphalt (PAV) contractor license.

Navigating the state's licensing process can feel like a maze of regulations, applications, and exams. The Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) has specific requirements that must be met, and understanding them is the first step toward success.

In this blog, we’ll provide a step-by-step roadmap to earning your PAV license so you can stop leaving money on the table and start building a more profitable and professional business.

Step 1: Determine Your License Class

Your first major decision is selecting the correct license class for your business. Virginia’s Board for Contractors issues Class A, B, and C licenses, each with different limits and requirements.

Class A License

• No limits on project size or annual revenue.
• Requires 5 years of experience.
• Requires minimum business net worth of $45,000.

Class B License

• Allows individual projects up to $120,000 and total annual revenue up to $750,000.
• Requires 3 years of experience.
• Requires minimum business net worth of $15,000.

Class C License

• Allows projects up to $30,000 and total annual revenue up to $150,000.
• Requires 2 years of experience and no net worth requirement.

The required experience must be held by a Qualified Individual (QI) within your company.

Step 2: Complete the 8-Hour Pre-License Course

All applicants—Class A, B, or C—must complete a Board-approved 8-hour pre-license education course before applying. This course covers business fundamentals and Virginia contractor regulations.

You’ll receive a certificate of completion, which is a mandatory part of your application package.

Note: Completing this course does not replace any required exams.

Step 3: Pass the Required Business Law Exams (Class A & B Only)

If you are applying for a Class A or Class B license, you must pass the appropriate DPOR business exams through PSI.

• Class B Applicants: Must pass the Virginia Portion and the General Portion.
• Class A Applicants: Must pass the Virginia Portion, General Portion, and the Advanced Portion.

These exams cover Virginia laws, business practices, safety, and administrative responsibilities for contractors.

If you are applying only for Class C, you do not take these exams.

Step 4: Submit Your Application and Financial Documents

With your certificates in hand, you are ready to submit your contractor license application to the DPOR.

• Business information
• Qualified Individual details
• Selected license class
• Financial documentation (for Class A & B)

Missing required financial attachments is one of the most common reasons applications are delayed.

Step 5: Take the Virginia Asphalt, Paving, and Sealcoating (PAV) Trade Exam

After your application is approved, you must take the Virginia Asphalt, Paving, and Sealcoating (PAV) specialty exam.

• Surface preparation
• Application techniques
• Coatings and materials
• Safety practices
• Virginia regulations

Why You Need a Virginia Paving and Asphalt Contractor License

In Virginia, it's illegal to perform paving or asphalt work on a project valued at more than $1,000 without a contractor license. The PAV specialty designation is required for installing and repairing pavement for roads, driveways, and parking lots.

Beyond the legal requirement, a PAV license gives you a significant competitive edge:

• Access to Larger Contracts: Your license class determines the size of projects you can bid on.
• Build Client Trust: A state license signals professionalism and expertise.
• Ensure Legal Compliance: Licensing helps you avoid fines and penalties.

Build a Stronger Business from the Ground Up

Earning your Virginia Paving and Asphalt (PAV) license is a critical step in transforming your trade into a thriving, professional business. It demonstrates your commitment to quality, protects you legally, and opens the door to the most profitable projects in the industry.

The path to licensing requires preparation and diligence, but with a clear plan, you can successfully navigate the process and achieve your goals.

Ready to get started?

Our comprehensive exam prep courses are designed to give you the knowledge and confidence you need to pass the PSI exams on your first attempt. Explore our Virginia PAV contractor exam prep collection today.

For a broader look at state requirements, visit our pillar page on How to Get Licensed as a Contractor in Virginia.