Minnesota Contractor & Trade License Requirements
Minnesota requires statewide licensing for residential contractors, electricians, plumbers, and roofers through the Department of Labor and Industry (DLI). HVAC/mechanical contractors do NOT need a state license but must file a $25,000 surety bond with DLI. Residential building contractors, remodelers, and roofers are licensed separately. Electricians are licensed by the Board of Electricity and plumbers by the Plumbing Board, both under DLI.
General Contractor
RequiredExperienceNone
ExamYes
Est. Cost$200
Electrician
RequiredExperience8,000 hrs
ExamYes
Est. Cost$64
Plumber
RequiredExperience4 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$126
HVAC Technician
Not requiredExperienceNone
ExamNo
Est. Cost$100
Roofing Contractor
RequiredExperienceNone
ExamYes
Est. Cost$180
Reciprocity Agreements
Minnesota has reciprocity agreements with 7 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams.
colorado — Journeyman Electrician reciprocity through NERA (National Electrical Reciprocal Alliance). Must hold current, active journeyman or master certificate obtained via state-administered exam for at least 1 year.
iowa — Journeyman Electrician reciprocity through NERA.
montana — Journeyman Electrician reciprocity through NERA.
nebraska — Journeyman Electrician reciprocity through NERA.
north dakota — Journeyman Electrician reciprocity through NERA.
south dakota — Journeyman Electrician reciprocity through NERA.
wyoming — Journeyman Electrician reciprocity through NERA.