North Dakota Contractor & Trade License Requirements
North Dakota requires a statewide contractor license through the Secretary of State for any construction project exceeding $4,000. Electricians and plumbers must also obtain separate trade licenses from the State Electrical Board and State Plumbing Board, respectively. HVAC and roofing contractors need only the general contractor license from the Secretary of State. Licenses are tiered by project value into four classes (A through D).
General Contractor
RequiredElectrician
RequiredPlumber
RequiredHVAC Technician
RequiredRoofing Contractor
RequiredNorth Dakota Licensing Overview
North Dakota requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 contractor trades. The licensed trades — general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor — are regulated by 3 separate agencies: North Dakota Secretary of State (SOS), North Dakota State Electrical Board (NDSEB), North Dakota State Plumbing Board (NDSPB). Across all licensed trades, initial costs range from $100 to $450, including application fees, exams, and license issuance.
North Dakota Contractor License Cost Summary
| Trade | Application | Exam | License | Bond | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | $450 | — | — | — | $450 |
| Electrician | $50 | — | $50 | — | $100 |
| Plumber | $50 | — | $100 | — | $150 |
| HVAC Technician | $100 | — | — | — | $100 |
| Roofing Contractor | $100 | — | — | — | $100 |
Estimated totals include application, exam, license, and fingerprinting fees. Bond amounts are separate and typically paid as an annual premium.
Key Facts About North Dakota Contractor Licensing
- Liability insurance certificate required with application and each renewal. Workers compensation required if you have employees.
- Required for any construction project over $4,000
- License must be renewed annually by March 1 with project listing and tax certification
- Effective May 1, 2026, all CE courses must cover the 2026 National Electrical Code
Frequently Asked Questions
Does North Dakota require a contractor license?
Yes, North Dakota requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 trades: general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor.
How much does a contractor license cost in North Dakota?
Initial licensing costs range from $100 to $450 depending on the trade, including application, exam, and license fees.
Does North Dakota have license reciprocity with other states?
North Dakota does not currently have reciprocity agreements with other states. Contractors from other states must apply and meet the full requirements.
Do I need workers compensation insurance in North Dakota?
Liability insurance certificate required with application and each renewal. Workers compensation required if you have employees.
Official North Dakota Licensing Resources
- North Dakota Secretary of State (SOS) — for general contractor, hvac technician, roofing contractor
- North Dakota State Electrical Board (NDSEB) — for electrician
- North Dakota State Plumbing Board (NDSPB) — for plumber