Missouri Contractor & Trade License Requirements
Missouri does not require a statewide general contractor, plumber, HVAC, or roofing license. These trades are licensed at the city and county level. Missouri does offer an optional statewide electrical contractor license through the Division of Professional Registration, Office of Statewide Electrical Contractors. Cities like Kansas City, St. Louis, and Springfield each maintain their own licensing requirements.
General Contractor
Not requiredElectrician
RequiredPlumber
Not requiredHVAC Technician
Not requiredRoofing Contractor
Not requiredMissouri Licensing Overview
Missouri requires statewide licensing for 1 of 5 contractor trades. The licensed trades — electrician — are regulated by the Division of Professional Registration, Office of Statewide Electrical Contractors (DPR). General Contractor and Plumber and HVAC Technician and Roofing Contractor licensing is handled at the city and county level rather than statewide. Across all licensed trades, initial costs range from $400 to $400, including application fees, exams, and license issuance.
Missouri Contractor License Cost Summary
| Trade | Application | Exam | License | Bond | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | Local — no statewide fees | ||||
| Electrician | $200 | — | $200 | — | $400 |
| Plumber | Local — no statewide fees | ||||
| HVAC Technician | Local — no statewide fees | ||||
| 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 Missouri Contractor Licensing
- Missouri requires workers compensation for employers with 5 or more employees (construction). General liability is not state-mandated but strongly recommended.
- Missouri does not require a statewide license for general contractor or plumber or hvac technician or roofing contractors. Local permits may still apply.
- This is a statewide electrical contractor license — separate from local journeyman/master licenses
- Local jurisdictions still require their own electrician licenses for journeyman and master levels
- NASCLA Master/Unlimited Electrical Exam is accepted in lieu of the state trade exam
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Missouri require a contractor license?
Yes, Missouri requires statewide licensing for 1 of 5 trades: electrician. General Contractor and Plumber and HVAC Technician and Roofing Contractor do not require a statewide license.
How much does a contractor license cost in Missouri?
The estimated initial cost is $400, including application, exam, and license fees.
Does Missouri have license reciprocity with other states?
Missouri 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 Missouri?
Missouri requires statewide licenses for: electrician. General Contractor and Plumber and HVAC Technician and Roofing Contractor licensing is handled at the local level.
Do I need workers compensation insurance in Missouri?
Missouri requires workers compensation for employers with 5 or more employees (construction). General liability is not state-mandated but strongly recommended.