General Contractor License Requirements in New Jersey
| Licensing Authority | Division of Consumer Affairs - Regulated Business Section (DCA) |
| License Type | Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) Registration |
| Experience Required | Currently no experience requirement for HIC registration. Under P.L. 2023, c. 237 (effective once the Board is fully seated): applicants must complete an apprenticeship, attend trade school, or have at least 2 years of supervised experience performing home improvement services. Contractors licensed 5+ years are grandfathered. |
| Education Substitute | Trade school completion or apprenticeship program accepted as alternative to 2 years supervised experience (under new law) |
| Exam Required | No |
| Bond Required | Yes — Tiered compliance bond required under P.L. 2023, c. 237: $10,000 bond for single contracts under $10,000 or annual totals below $150,000; $25,000 bond for contracts $10,000-$120,000 or annual totals $150,000-$750,000; $50,000 bond for contracts over $120,000 or annual totals exceeding $750,000. Letter of credit accepted as alternative. |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | Not required |
| Processing Time | Up to 30 days |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $110 |
| Late renewal fee (April 1-30) | $25 |
| Est. Initial Total | $135 |
Renewal: $90 every 1 year (expires March 30)
License Tiers
HIC Registration (Current)
No specific experience requirement for registration
Exam: Not required
HIC License (Under P.L. 2023, c. 237 - pending full Board activation)
2 years supervised experience, apprenticeship, or trade school completion required
Exam: Required
Notes
- P.L. 2023, c. 237 signed January 8, 2024, created the Home Improvement and Home Elevation Contractor Licensing Act
- New State Board of Home Improvement and Home Elevation Contractors partially formed July 2025
- Full licensing requirements (exam, experience) take effect 2 years after Board majority is seated
- Compliance bond and insurance requirements are already in effect for 2026 renewals
- Existing registrations expired March 30, 2026 - renewal window opens January 15
- Criminal background check required as part of registration
- All owners with 10%+ stake must be disclosed
- Written contracts required for all home improvement work over $500
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a general contractor license in New Jersey?
Yes, New Jersey requires a statewide general contractor license through the Division of Consumer Affairs - Regulated Business Section.
How much does a general contractor license cost in New Jersey?
The estimated initial cost is $110, including application, exam, and license fees.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: DCA