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.
General Contractor
RequiredElectrician
RequiredPlumber
RequiredHVAC Technician
RequiredRoofing Contractor
RequiredDistrict of Columbia Licensing Overview
District of Columbia requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 contractor trades. The licensed trades — general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor — are regulated by 2 separate agencies: Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP), Board of Industrial Trades, Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (BIT/DLCP). Across all licensed trades, initial costs range from $162 to $655, including application fees, exams, and license issuance.
District of Columbia Contractor License Cost Summary
| Trade | Application | Exam | License | Bond | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | $655 | — | — | $5,000 | $655 |
| Electrician | $52 | — | $110 | $5,000 | $162 |
| Plumber | $52 | — | $110 | $5,000 | $162 |
| HVAC Technician | $65 | — | $110 | $5,000 | $175 |
| Roofing Contractor | $288 | — | — | $25,000 | $288 |
Estimated totals include application, exam, license, and fingerprinting fees. Bond amounts are separate and typically paid as an annual premium.
Key Facts About District of Columbia Contractor Licensing
- License required for any project over $1,000
- Operating without a license: Class 1 infraction, minimum $2,000 fine
- Must have DC corporate registration through DLCP
Frequently Asked Questions
Does District of Columbia require a contractor license?
Yes, District of Columbia requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 trades: general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor.
How much does a contractor license cost in District of Columbia?
Initial licensing costs range from $162 to $655 depending on the trade, including application, exam, and license fees.
Does District of Columbia have license reciprocity with other states?
District of Columbia does not currently have reciprocity agreements with other states. Contractors from other states must apply and meet the full requirements.
Official District of Columbia Licensing Resources
- Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) — for general contractor, roofing contractor
- Board of Industrial Trades, Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (BIT/DLCP) — for electrician, plumber, hvac technician