Pennsylvania Contractor & Trade License Requirements
Pennsylvania does NOT require a statewide general contractor license. Instead, the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA) requires contractors performing $5,000+ of residential work annually to register with the Attorney General's Office as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC). Pennsylvania also has no statewide licensing for electricians, plumbers, HVAC, or roofing — these trades are regulated at the municipal level (Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, etc. each have their own requirements). All trades working on 1-2 family dwellings must hold HIC registration. The state adopted the 2021 International Codes under the Uniform Construction Code effective January 1, 2026.
General Contractor
Not requiredElectrician
Not requiredPlumber
Not requiredHVAC Technician
Not requiredRoofing Contractor
Not requiredPennsylvania Licensing Overview
Pennsylvania requires statewide licensing for 0 of 5 contractor trades. General Contractor and Electrician and Plumber and HVAC Technician and Roofing Contractor licensing is handled at the city and county level rather than statewide.
Pennsylvania Contractor License Cost Summary
| Trade | Application | Exam | License | Bond | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | Local — no statewide fees | ||||
| Electrician | Local — no statewide fees | ||||
| 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 Pennsylvania Contractor Licensing
- Must provide proof of liability insurance with minimum $50,000 personal injury coverage and $50,000 property damage coverage. Workers' comp required if you have any employees (full-time, part-time, or seasonal). Industry standard is $1M/$2M GL.
- Pennsylvania does not require a statewide license for general contractor or electrician or plumber or hvac technician or roofing contractors. Local permits may still apply.
- Pennsylvania has NO statewide general contractor license — this is a registration, not a license
- Required for contractors performing $5,000+ of home improvement work per year on 1-2 family dwellings
- Exempt: contractors doing less than $5,000/year and retailers with net worth over $50 million
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Pennsylvania require a contractor license?
Pennsylvania does not require statewide licensing for the major trades. Licensing is typically handled at the city or county level. Check with your local building department for specific requirements.
Does Pennsylvania have license reciprocity with other states?
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
Must provide proof of liability insurance with minimum $50,000 personal injury coverage and $50,000 property damage coverage. Workers' comp required if you have any employees (full-time, part-time, or seasonal). Industry standard is $1M/$2M GL.