Get your contractor license in North Dakota

Nothing worthwhile in life comes without planning, discipline, and hard work. Getting your contractor business up and running in North Dakota is no exception. 

You have the skills and a killer concept for your company. While it may be tempting to hit the ground running and jump right into projects, there are necessary steps you'll need to take before you can break ground on any construction site. North Dakota, like most states, has a series of unique requirements you'll need to meet before you can begin working. From education to licensure, you'll have to invest time and energy upfront to build the foundation for success as a contractor long-term. 

If you're ready to get started towards your dream career of being one of North Dakota's finest contractors, there's a good chance you'll take on amazing projects that earn your company over $4,000. If that's the case, you will be legally obligated to get a license in order to work.

Don't panic! While it can be daunting to take the first step, The Contractor Training Center is here to help. With a responsive team and resources specific to the licensing process and examinations in North Dakota, you can rest easy knowing your contractor license is in the bag. 

The Benefits of Having a Contractor's License in North Dakota

All states, even different cities or local jurisdictions, have specific benchmarks and requirements for folks seeking contractor licenses. Frustrating as it may feel, these standards are in place to protect both businesses and clients in the unique places they work and live. 

In North Dakota, a contractor's license is required for anyone who intends to do construction work amounting to over $4,000 for materials and labor. 

If you attempt to cheat the system and work without one, you could get hit with massive fines and jeopardize your ability to work in the future. It's better to play it safe from the get-go and start your journey towards licensure sooner than later.

In addition to the legal obligation, there are many reasons having a license is a good idea. 

Credibility

Having a license gives your company credibility with clients. It can help earn the allegiance of those you serve and gives your business prestige and trustworthiness. 

Financial Gain

Having the proper licensure, while it will cost you money upfront, will pay off tenfold financially. Your earning potential is exponentially higher with correct licensing.

The requirements that go into licensure, such as holding a business insurance policy, help protect your company from damaging and expensive lawsuits.

As you scroll through this page, you'll find an all-inclusive guide to get you started towards your North Dakota contractor's license. 

We'll walk you through the ins and outs of different types of licenses and what you'll need to do to get licensed.

With so many good reasons to get your contractor license, there's no reason to put it off any longer. The sooner you have it, the sooner you can see your dream business come to life. Contractor Training Center is here to walk you through the process. Begin your journey with the steps below.

1. Create And Register Your Business

To begin, you'll need to solidify your business concept and name! Let yourself dream big here. After you feel confident in your direction, you'll need to register your business with the North Dakota Secretary of State's office. 

You can start that process and see what it entails here. Contractor Training Center is here to answer questions and help smooth over any hiccups.

2. Decide What Type Of License Your Business Needs 

Depending on what type of projects you plan to do, you may need a different class of licensure. Each specifies a monetary value associated with the work, and each corresponds with a different fee structure. Here's a breakdown.

Class A

A Class A license is for any project above $500,000. It carries no limit on the value of any individual contract project. The accompanying fee is $450 for an initial application, and $90 to renew.

Class B

A Class B license holds a limit of $500,000 for any individual job. The accompanying fee is $300 for an initial application, and $60 to renew.

Class C

A Class C license holds a limit of $300,000 for any individual job. The accompanying fee is $225 for an initial application, and $45 to renew.

Class D

A Class D license holds a limit of $100,000 for any individual job. The accompanying fee is $100 for an initial application, and $30 to renew.

3. Collect Proof Of Insurance 

Once you've determined what class of license your business will require, you'll need to collect proof of insurance to submit with your application.  

Coverage will need to be in the precise name that your business is registered under and indicate proof of liability coverage. Additionally, you must have the North Dakota Secretary of State listed as the certificate holder.

4. Prepare Evidence of Good Standing 

In addition to proof of insurance, you'll also need to submit a statement from Workforce Safety and Insurance as evidence of your good standing. You can find more details about this requirement on their website.

5. Submit Your Application

The only thing left to do is finalize and submit your application. Remember, all entities must be registered with the Secretary of State before submission, and you'll need to pay the accompanying fee. 

A check can be made payable to The Secretary of State, and online payments via Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express are also sufficient. Check out the application here to get started.