Kansas Contractor & Trade License Requirements
Kansas does NOT require statewide licensing for general contractors, electricians, plumbers, or HVAC contractors. All trade licensing is handled at the city and county level, with requirements varying significantly by jurisdiction. The one exception is roofing: all roofing contractors must register with the Kansas Attorney General under the Kansas Roofing Registration Act. Major metro areas like Wichita (Sedgwick County), Overland Park (Johnson County), Kansas City, and Topeka each have their own licensing requirements.
General Contractor
Not requiredElectrician
Not requiredPlumber
Not requiredHVAC Technician
Not requiredRoofing Contractor
RequiredKansas Licensing Overview
Kansas requires statewide licensing for 1 of 5 contractor trades. The licensed trades — roofing contractor — are regulated by the Kansas Attorney General — Roofing Registration Unit (KS AG). General Contractor and Electrician and Plumber and HVAC Technician licensing is handled at the city and county level rather than statewide. Across all licensed trades, initial costs range from $250 to $250, including application fees, exams, and license issuance.
Kansas Contractor License Cost Summary
| Trade | Application | Exam | License | Bond | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | Local — no statewide fees | ||||
| Electrician | Local — no statewide fees | ||||
| Plumber | Local — no statewide fees | ||||
| HVAC Technician | Local — no statewide fees | ||||
| Roofing Contractor | $250 | — | — | — | $250 |
Estimated totals include application, exam, license, and fingerprinting fees. Bond amounts are separate and typically paid as an annual premium.
Key Facts About Kansas Contractor Licensing
- No state GL mandate. Most local jurisdictions require proof of general liability insurance. Kansas law requires workers comp for all employers.
- Kansas does not require a statewide license for general contractor or electrician or plumber or hvac technicians. Local permits may still apply.
- EPA Section 608 certification required for refrigerant handling (federal requirement, not state)
- The Kansas PHCC (Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Contractors) association provides industry resources at phccks.org
- Kansas Roofing Registration Act (effective July 1, 2013) requires ALL roofing contractors to register with the Attorney General
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Kansas require a contractor license?
Yes, Kansas requires statewide licensing for 1 of 5 trades: roofing contractor. General Contractor and Electrician and Plumber and HVAC Technician do not require a statewide license.
How much does a contractor license cost in Kansas?
The estimated initial cost is $250, including application, exam, and license fees.
Does Kansas have license reciprocity with other states?
Kansas 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 Kansas?
Kansas requires statewide licenses for: roofing contractor. General Contractor and Electrician and Plumber and HVAC Technician licensing is handled at the local level.
Do I need workers compensation insurance in Kansas?
No state GL mandate. Most local jurisdictions require proof of general liability insurance. Kansas law requires workers comp for all employers.
Official Kansas Licensing Resources
- Kansas Attorney General — Roofing Registration Unit (KS AG) — for roofing contractor