Rhode Island Contractor & Trade License Requirements
Rhode Island requires all contractors to register with the Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board (CRLB). In addition, electricians, plumbers, and commercial roofers must obtain separate trade licenses through the Department of Labor and Training (DLT). New registrants must complete a 5-hour CRLB-approved pre-registration course. A July 2025 law added a government-issued photo ID requirement for all registrations and renewals.
General Contractor
RequiredElectrician
RequiredPlumber
RequiredHVAC Technician
RequiredRoofing Contractor
RequiredRhode Island Licensing Overview
Rhode Island requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 contractor trades. The licensed trades — general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor — are regulated by 4 separate agencies: Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board (CRLB), Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Board of Examiners of Electricians (DLT), Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Plumbing Board (DLT), Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board / Department of Labor and Training (CRLB/DLT). Across all licensed trades, initial costs range from $147 to $222, including application fees, exams, and license issuance.
Rhode Island Contractor License Cost Summary
| Trade | Application | Exam | License | Bond | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | $150 | — | — | — | $150 |
| Electrician | $75 | $75 | $72 | — | $222 |
| Plumber | $75 | — | $72 | $3,000 | $147 |
| HVAC Technician | $150 | — | — | $3,000 | $150 |
| Roofing Contractor | $150 | — | — | — | $150 |
Estimated totals include application, exam, license, and fingerprinting fees. Bond amounts are separate and typically paid as an annual premium.
Key Facts About Rhode Island Contractor Licensing
- 2025 change: Government-issued photo ID now required for all registrations and renewals
- First offense for unlicensed work: up to $5,000 fine; subsequent offenses: $10,000 each
- Must also register with CRLB in addition to holding DLT trade license
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Rhode Island require a contractor license?
Yes, Rhode Island requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 trades: general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor.
How much does a contractor license cost in Rhode Island?
Initial licensing costs range from $147 to $222 depending on the trade, including application, exam, and license fees.
Does Rhode Island have license reciprocity with other states?
Rhode Island does not currently have reciprocity agreements with other states. Contractors from other states must apply and meet the full requirements.
Official Rhode Island Licensing Resources
- Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board (CRLB) — for general contractor, roofing contractor
- Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Board of Examiners of Electricians (DLT) — for electrician
- Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Plumbing Board (DLT) — for plumber
- Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board / Department of Labor and Training (CRLB/DLT) — for hvac technician