San Antonio General Contractor & Home Improvement Registration (2026)
San Antonio registers RESIDENTIAL contractors only — there is no commercial GC city registration (commercial GCs need only project permits). Two residential registrations exist, both 2-year terms requiring an FBI background check (dated within 30 days): Home Improvement (existing-building remodel) and Residential Building (new 1–2 family construction).
Home Improvement Contractor Registration
Issued by City of San Antonio Development Services Department · (210) 207-1111
Fees
- Registration$150
- Renewal (2 years)$150
Exam: Not required. No exam or certification required for Home Improvement registration. An FBI criminal-history background check (dated within 30 days of submittal) is required.
Bond: No surety bond required. No surety bond in the registration requirements. Submission checklist: completed application, government photo ID, proof of insurance, completed FBI background check. Source
Insurance: General liability: $300,000 per occurrence (combined property damage + bodily injury); $600,000 aggregate. Also ≥$300,000 aggregate for products & completed operations. Insurer must be authorized in Texas. Certificate holder: City of San Antonio, 1901 South Alamo, San Antonio, TX 78204. Source
For nonstructural repair, replacement, remodeling, alteration, conversion, or modernization of any existing building. San Antonio Code Ch. 10-115. $150 initial/renewal, 2-year term. Application Rev 10/25.
Residential Building Contractor Registration
Issued by City of San Antonio Development Services Department · (210) 207-1111
Fees
- Registration$170
- Renewal (2 years)$170
Exam: Required. The registration holder or one affiliated agent must hold a Residential ICC Certification (or other certification approved by the Building Official); alternatively, 5 years of continued registration with no violations/suspensions/revocation per §10-115(j). Plus an FBI background check (within 30 days).
Bond: No surety bond required. No surety bond in the registration requirements. Submission checklist: completed application, ICC certification, government photo ID, proof of insurance, completed FBI background check. Source
Insurance: General liability: $500,000 per occurrence (combined property damage + bodily injury); $1,000,000 aggregate. Also ≥$500,000 aggregate for products & completed operations. Insurer must be authorized in Texas. Certificate holder: City of San Antonio, 1901 South Alamo, San Antonio, TX 78204. Source
For constructing, structurally altering, or enlarging any one- or two-family detached dwelling. San Antonio Code Ch. 10-115. $170 initial/renewal, 2-year term. Application Rev 10/25.
How to get licensed in San Antonio
- Obtain the required insurance coverage and provide a certificate.
- Submit your application and fees to City of San Antonio Development Services Department.
- Renew the registration every 2 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a general contractor registration in San Antonio?
San Antonio registers RESIDENTIAL contractors only — there is no commercial GC city registration (commercial GCs need only project permits). Two residential registrations exist, both 2-year terms requiring an FBI background check (dated within 30 days): Home Improvement (existing-building remodel) and Residential Building (new 1–2 family construction).
How much does a contractor registration cost in San Antonio?
The registration fee is $150.
Is an exam required for a San Antonio contractor registration?
No, San Antonio does not require an exam for this registration.
Do I need a bond for a San Antonio contractor registration?
No. San Antonio does not require a surety bond for this registration.
Next steps
You know the requirements for general contractors in Texas— here's how to actually pass and apply.
Sources
- Residential Building reg app (Rev 10/25) (2025-10-01)
- Home Improvement reg app (Rev 10/25) (2025-10-01)
Related pages
Last verified 2026-06-10 · Operator-verified