Connecticut Contractor & Trade License Requirements
Connecticut licenses specialty trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) statewide through the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP), but does not require a statewide general contractor license. General contractors must register as either a Home Improvement Contractor (residential) or Major Contractor (commercial). Roofing contractors register under the Home Improvement Contractor or Major Contractor categories depending on project type. All trade licenses use an odd/even numbered classification system: odd numbers (E-1, P-1, S-1) for contractors and even numbers (E-2, P-2, S-2) for journeypersons.
General Contractor
Not requiredElectrician
RequiredPlumber
RequiredHVAC Technician
RequiredRoofing Contractor
Not requiredConnecticut Licensing Overview
Connecticut requires statewide licensing for 3 of 5 contractor trades. The licensed trades — electrician, plumber, hvac technician — are regulated by the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP). General Contractor and Roofing Contractor licensing is handled at the city and county level rather than statewide. Across all licensed trades, initial costs range from $365 to $430, including application fees, exams, and license issuance.
Connecticut Contractor License Cost Summary
| Trade | Application | Exam | License | Bond | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | Local — no statewide fees | ||||
| Electrician | $150 | $65 | $150 | — | $365 |
| Plumber | $150 | $65 | $150 | — | $365 |
| HVAC Technician | $150 | $130 | $150 | — | $430 |
| Roofing Contractor | Local — no statewide fees | ||||
Estimated totals include application, exam, license, and fingerprinting fees. Bond amounts are separate and typically paid as an annual premium.
Key Facts About Connecticut Contractor Licensing
- Home Improvement Contractors must carry minimum $20,000 general liability insurance. Major Contractors must also provide proof of general liability insurance. Workers comp required for all employers.
- Connecticut does not require a statewide license for general contractor or roofing contractors. Local permits may still apply.
- Business & Law exam ($65) required in addition to trade exam for E-1 contractor license
- First renewal exempt from continuing education requirement
- Online continuing education is not permitted for plumbers in Connecticut
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Connecticut require a contractor license?
Yes, Connecticut requires statewide licensing for 3 of 5 trades: electrician, plumber, hvac technician. General Contractor and Roofing Contractor do not require a statewide license.
How much does a contractor license cost in Connecticut?
Initial licensing costs range from $365 to $430 depending on the trade, including application, exam, and license fees.
Does Connecticut have license reciprocity with other states?
Connecticut does not currently have reciprocity agreements with other states. Contractors from other states must apply and meet the full requirements.
What trades require a state license in Connecticut?
Connecticut requires statewide licenses for: electrician, plumber, hvac technician. General Contractor and Roofing Contractor licensing is handled at the local level.
Do I need workers compensation insurance in Connecticut?
Home Improvement Contractors must carry minimum $20,000 general liability insurance. Major Contractors must also provide proof of general liability insurance. Workers comp required for all employers.
Official Connecticut Licensing Resources
- Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) — for electrician, plumber, hvac technician