District of Columbia Contractor & Trade License Requirements

The District of Columbia requires contractor licensing through the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP, formerly DCRA). DC offers two main contractor licenses: General Contractor/Construction Manager and Home Improvement Contractor. Trade professionals (electricians, plumbers, HVAC) are licensed through the Board of Industrial Trades under DLCP. A license is required for any project over $1,000. Operating without a license carries a minimum $2,000 fine.