If you're a North Dakota contractor looking to get your general contractor license in 2024, you'll need to meet the state's licensing requirements. This post will provide an overview of the requirements and the steps you need to take in order to obtain a license.

Who issues a general contractor license in North Dakota

In North Dakota, general contractor licenses are typically issued by the North Dakota Secretary of State's Office. However, it's essential to note that the specific licensing requirements and processes may vary by city or municipality within the state. 

Who Needs a North Dakota General Contractor License?

When working in construction-related fields in North Dakota, it is essential to obtain a general contractor license to comply with licensing regulations. While there is an exception to this requirement for contracts that are not worth more than $4,000, this only applies to individual contracts and not cumulative contracts.

Different License Types In North Dakota

North Dakota offers four different contractor licenses: Class A, B, C, and D. Each license type has specific requirements and limitations:

1. Class A License

• Suitable for contracts exceeding $500,000.
• Filing fee: $450.
• Compliance with state licensing requirements is mandatory.

2. Class B License

• Designed for contracts up to $500,000.
• Filing fee: $300.
• Contractors must meet specific qualifications to obtain this license.

3. Class C License

• Intended for contracts up to $300,000.
• Filing fee: $225.
• Comes with its own set of requirements to fulfill.

4. Class D License

• For contractors handling contracts up to $100,000.
• Filing fee: $100.
• Qualification requirements apply.

Step by Step Guide Through North Dakota General Contractor License Requirements

Obtaining a general contractor license in North Dakota involves several essential requirements. Here's a guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Register Your Business:

If you are a business entity, start by registering your business with the North Dakota Secretary of State. Use the North Dakota Online Services portal to create a business account and complete the online contractor application.

2. Provide Certificate of Insurance:

Ensure you have the necessary insurance coverage by providing a certificate of insurance. The certificate holder on the policy should be listed as the North Dakota Secretary of State. This step is crucial for both your protection and that of your clients.

3. Obtain a Statement from Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI):

Obtain a statement from Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI) to confirm that you have workers' compensation coverage for your employees. Compliance with this requirement is essential to ensure the well-being of your workers and adhere to state regulations.

4. Pay the Filing Fee:

To obtain your general contractor license, you'll need to pay a filing fee. This fee can be paid using major credit cards or checks made payable to the North Dakota Secretary of State.

Penalties for Unlicensed Contractors in North Dakota

In North Dakota, engaging in contracting work without the required license is categorized as a Class A Misdemeanor. This classification implies that unlicensed contracting may lead to substantial fines and potentially even incarceration.

Leveraging your license on Houzz

Now that you know the North Dakota general contractor license requirements, it’s time to start thinking about how you can promote your license to potential clients. Everyone who’s anyone knows the value of a blue checkmark on social media. That’s what the green Verified License Badge is for businesses on Houzz Pro. With one glance, this Badge helps you:

• Let homeowners know that your business is licensed by state industry experts.
• Stand out from the competition while homeowners consider who to hire
• Add credibility to your company name, providing peace of mind to future clients

Here are the steps you can take to add a verified license to your Houzz profile. If you haven’t created a free profile on Houzz, sign up today and get ready to make a bigger impact with your business’ online presence.