New Hampshire Contractor & Trade License Requirements
New Hampshire requires statewide licensing for electricians and plumbers through the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification (OPLC). There is no statewide general contractor, HVAC, or roofing license. Electricians are licensed by the Electricians Board and plumbers by the Mechanical Safety and Licensing Board, both under OPLC.
General Contractor
Not requiredElectrician
RequiredPlumber
RequiredHVAC Technician
Not requiredRoofing Contractor
Not requiredNew Hampshire Licensing Overview
New Hampshire requires statewide licensing for 2 of 5 contractor trades. The licensed trades — electrician, plumber — are regulated by 2 separate agencies: Office of Professional Licensure and Certification, Electricians Board (OPLC), Office of Professional Licensure and Certification, Mechanical Safety and Licensing Board (OPLC). General Contractor 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 $360 to $475, including application fees, exams, and license issuance.
New Hampshire Contractor License Cost Summary
| Trade | Application | Exam | License | Bond | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | Local — no statewide fees | ||||
| Electrician | $85 | $110 | $165 | — | $360 |
| Plumber | $75 | $90 | $310 | — | $475 |
| 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 New Hampshire Contractor Licensing
- New Hampshire requires workers compensation for all employers. General liability is not state-mandated but strongly recommended.
- New Hampshire does not require a statewide license for general contractor or hvac technician or roofing contractors. Local permits may still apply.
- Gas fitting work requires a separate state license
- EPA 608 certification required for refrigerant handling
Frequently Asked Questions
Does New Hampshire require a contractor license?
Yes, New Hampshire requires statewide licensing for 2 of 5 trades: electrician, plumber. General Contractor and HVAC Technician and Roofing Contractor do not require a statewide license.
How much does a contractor license cost in New Hampshire?
Initial licensing costs range from $360 to $475 depending on the trade, including application, exam, and license fees.
Does New Hampshire have license reciprocity with other states?
New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire?
New Hampshire requires statewide licenses for: electrician, plumber. General Contractor and HVAC Technician and Roofing Contractor licensing is handled at the local level.
Do I need workers compensation insurance in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire requires workers compensation for all employers. General liability is not state-mandated but strongly recommended.