Getting your general contractor license in North Dakota is a straightforward process managed by the North Dakota Secretary of State. Unlike many other states, North Dakota does not require a trade examination or a specific number of years of experience, making it one of the more accessible states for qualified contractors to become licensed. This guide walks you through the official requirements, license classes, fees, and application steps.
Who Needs a North Dakota General Contractor License?
A North Dakota contractor license is required for any individual or company performing construction work when the total cost of the project exceeds $4,000. The license is issued by the North Dakota Secretary of State and applies to both prime contractors and subcontractors.
Defining "Contractor" in North Dakota
Under North Dakota Century Code (N.D.C.C.) Chapter 43-07, a "contractor" is defined as any person engaged in the business of construction, repair, alteration, dismantling, or demolition of various structures, including buildings, roads, bridges, and utilities. This broad definition covers most general construction activities.
The Project Value Threshold for Licensing
The licensing requirement is triggered for any single construction project with a cost, value, or price exceeding $4,000. According to the Secretary of State, "When the cost, value, or price of a job exceeds $4,000, the person doing the work must be licensed as a contractor in North Dakota." Operating on projects above this value without the proper license can lead to penalties.
North Dakota Contractor License Classes & Tiers
North Dakota offers four classes of contractor licenses, each with a different limit on the maximum value of projects you are permitted to undertake. You must select the class that corresponds to the largest project you plan to bid on or perform.
Class A License: For Projects Exceeding $500,000
The Class A license has no limitation on the value of projects a contractor can undertake. This is the highest-tier license, suitable for large-scale commercial, industrial, or public works projects.
Class B License: For Projects Up To $500,000
The Class B license allows a contractor to work on projects with a total value of up to $500,000.
Class C License: For Projects Up To $300,000
The Class C license authorizes work on projects with a total value of up to $300,000.
Class D License: For Projects Up To $100,000
The Class D license is for smaller projects, permitting work on jobs with a total value of up to $100,000.
North Dakota General Contractor License Requirements
To obtain a general contractor license in North Dakota, applicants must meet several key requirements established by the Secretary of State.
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
- Statement of Experience and Qualifications: The application must be submitted under oath and include "a statement of the applicant's experience and qualifications as a contractor," as required by N.D.C.C. ch. 43-07. No minimum number of years is specified.
- Insurance Requirement: You must file a certificate of liability insurance with your application.
- Application Form: A completed and signed official North Dakota Contractor's Application Form is required.
Step-by-Step: The North Dakota Contractor License Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for your North Dakota contractor license through the Secretary of State.
- Gather Required Documents: Before filling out the application, obtain your certificate of liability insurance from your insurance provider. You will also need to prepare your sworn statement detailing your experience and qualifications as a contractor.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the "Contractor's License Application" form provided by the Secretary of State. Ensure all information is accurate and that you have selected the correct license class (A, B, C, or D).
- Calculate & Prepare Fees: Determine the correct initial application fee based on your chosen license class. Payment must be included with your application package.
- Submit Your Application: Mail or hand-deliver your completed application form, statement of experience, certificate of liability insurance, and the required fee to the North Dakota Secretary of State's office. The mailing address is published on the application form; confirm the current address with the Secretary of State before sending.
- Application Review & Issuance: The Secretary of State's office will review your application. Current application processing timelines vary; confirm with the office for an estimate. Once approved, your license will be issued.
North Dakota Contractor License Fees (Initial & Renewal)
Fees for North Dakota contractor licenses are determined by the license class you select.
Initial Application Fees
- Class A: $450
- Class B: $300
- Class C: $225
- Class D: $100
Annual Renewal Fees
- Class A: $90
- Class B: $60
- Class C: $45
- Class D: $30
Other Fees
- Name Change Fee: $10
Does North Dakota Require a General Contractor License Exam?
No, the North Dakota Secretary of State does not require an examination to obtain a general contractor license. Licensure is based on the submission of a complete application, proof of insurance, a statement of experience, and payment of the appropriate fee.
North Dakota Contractor License Renewal & Continuing Education
All North Dakota contractor licenses must be renewed annually to remain active.
When to Renew Your North Dakota Contractor License
The renewal period for all contractor licenses is on or before March 1 of each year. The contractor license year runs from March 2 of the current year through March 1 of the following year. A renewal notice is typically mailed by the Secretary of State, but it is the contractor's responsibility to ensure the license is renewed on time.
North Dakota Continuing Education Requirements for Contractors
No state-level continuing education requirement was identified in the sources reviewed for general contractor license renewal in North Dakota. Contractors should always confirm current renewal requirements directly with the Secretary of State.
Does North Dakota Offer Contractor License Reciprocity?
No, the North Dakota Secretary of State's published rules do not specify any reciprocity or endorsement agreements with other states for general contractor licenses. All contractors, regardless of out-of-state licensure, must apply for a North Dakota license to perform work exceeding the $4,000 threshold.
North Dakota Contractor Insurance Requirements
Contractors in North Dakota must carry specific types of insurance to obtain and maintain their license.
General Liability Insurance for North Dakota Contractors
Applicants are required to file a certificate of liability insurance with their license application. This demonstrates that the contractor has coverage for potential property damage or bodily injury that may occur during their operations.
Workers' Compensation Insurance in North Dakota
North Dakota requires most employers to provide workers' compensation insurance for their employees through North Dakota Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI). Contractors with employees must comply with these state requirements. The specific rules are published by WSI; confirm your obligations before hiring.
North Dakota State Building Codes
Construction projects in North Dakota must comply with the North Dakota State Building Code. The state has adopted various codes from the International Code Council (ICC). The North Dakota Department of Commerce maintains and updates the state building code, and contractors are responsible for ensuring all work meets these standards.