Virginia Roofing Contractor License Requirements

A sturdy roof is the most critical part of any building, and in Virginia, the professionals who install and repair them are held to a high standard. If you plan to perform roofing work in Virginia, you must be properly licensed.

Virginia does not issue a standalone roofing license. Instead, roofing is a specialty (ROC) added to a Virginia contractor license.

This guide walks you through every step to getting your Virginia Roofing Contractor License, explains license classes and limits, and shows how to prepare for and pass the required exams.

At a Glance: Virginia Roofing (ROC) License

• Regulating Body: Virginia DPOR (Board for Contractors)
• Specialty Name: Roofing (ROC)
• Exam Provider: PSI Exams
• Key Pre-Requisite: 8-Hour Pre-License Education Course
• Renewal Cycle: Every 2 years

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 — this can be you or a qualified manager.

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 but is not a trade skills course.

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; it simply satisfies DPOR’s basic business education requirement.

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 business law exams — skip to Step 4.

Step 4: Submit Your Application and All Financial Documents

With your certificates in hand (pre-license education, and business exams if required), you are ready to submit your contractor license application to the DPOR.

Your application must include:

• Business information
• Qualified Individual (QI) details
• Selected license class
• All required financial documentation

For Class A & B, you must demonstrate financial responsibility by submitting either a financial statement verifying net worth, a surety bond, or other DPOR-approved financial evidence.

Class C applicants do not need to submit financials with their application.

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

Step 5: Take the Virginia Roofing Contractor (ROC) Trade Exam

After your application is approved, you must take the Virginia Roofing Contractor (ROC) Trade Exam specialty exam.

This exam tests your knowledge of:

• Roofing materials and systems: ~25–30%
• Roof deck preparation and underlayment: ~15–20%
• Roof installation methods and flashing: ~20–25%
• Estimating and calculations: ~10–15%
• Safety and regulations: ~10–15%

Why Do You Need a Roofing License in Virginia?

In Virginia, any roofing job valued more than $1,000 requires a contractor license. This isn't just a recommendation; it's a legal mandate. The DPOR classifies roofing under the specialty designation Roofing (ROC). Operating without this credential puts you at risk of fines and legal trouble.

Beyond the legal necessity, a license provides significant business advantages:

• Builds Trust: A license is proof of your credibility and professionalism.
• Unlocks Bigger Projects: Your license class determines the value of the projects you can legally take on.
• Protects Your Business: Helps reduce the risk of costly compliance mistakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Virginia roofing license process take?

Typically, the entire process takes about 2 to 4 months. This timeline can be affected by how quickly you complete the pre-license course, DPOR's application processing times (which can be 30 days or more), and your success with the PSI exams.

What's the difference between the ROC and RBC license?

The Roofing (ROC) license is a specialty designation specifically for roofing work. The Residential Building Contractor (RBC) license is much broader and allows for construction and remodeling of entire homes.

Do I need an OSHA 10 card to get my roofing license?

The DPOR does not require OSHA 10 to issue a roofing license. However, many general contractors and commercial clients may require it, so it is a highly recommended credential.

Take the Next Step in Your Roofing Career

Earning your Virginia roofing contractor license is a powerful investment in your future. It elevates your professional standing, opens the door to more profitable projects, and provides the legal foundation to grow your business with confidence.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can navigate the DPOR's requirements and successfully earn your ROC designation.

Ready to start studying?

Our proven exam prep courses are designed to help you pass the PSI exams on your first attempt. Explore our Virginia Roofing Contractor Exam Prep materials and take the first step toward becoming a licensed professional today.

For a broader overview of state requirements, check out our main guide on How to Get Licensed as a Contractor in Virginia.