Vermont Contractor & Trade License Requirements
Vermont does not require a statewide license for general contractors, HVAC technicians, or roofing contractors. Electricians are licensed through the Department of Public Safety, Division of Fire Safety, and plumbers are licensed through the Plumbers Examining Board under the same division. Some municipalities have local contractor registration requirements. Vermont participates in the National Electrical Reciprocal Alliance (NERA) for electrical license reciprocity.
General Contractor
Not requiredElectrician
RequiredPlumber
RequiredHVAC Technician
Not requiredRoofing Contractor
Not requiredReciprocity Agreements
Vermont has reciprocity agreements with 2 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams.
Vermont Licensing Overview
Vermont requires statewide licensing for 2 of 5 contractor trades. The licensed trades — electrician, plumber — are regulated by 2 separate agencies: Department of Public Safety, Division of Fire Safety (DFS), Department of Public Safety, Division of Fire Safety, Plumbers Examining Board (DFS). General Contractor and HVAC Technician and Roofing Contractor licensing is handled at the city and county level rather than statewide. Across all licensed trades, initial costs range from $225 to $235, including application fees, exams, and license issuance. Vermont also participates in reciprocity agreements with 2 other states, which can streamline the process for out-of-state contractors.
Vermont Contractor License Cost Summary
| Trade | Application | Exam | License | Bond | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | Local — no statewide fees | ||||
| Electrician | $80 | $75 | $80 | — | $235 |
| Plumber | $75 | $75 | $75 | — | $225 |
| 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 Vermont Contractor Licensing
- Workers comp required if you have employees. General liability strongly recommended but not state-mandated.
- Vermont does not require a statewide license for general contractor or hvac technician or roofing contractors. Local permits may still apply.
- Vermont has reciprocity agreements with 2 states, which may allow licensed contractors to skip certain exams.
- Vermont participates in the National Electrical Reciprocal Alliance (NERA)
- 15 hours of NEC code-based CE required for each renewal cycle
- 8 hours of continuing education required every 2 years for license renewal
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Vermont require a contractor license?
Yes, Vermont requires statewide licensing for 2 of 5 trades: electrician, plumber. General Contractor and HVAC Technician and Roofing Contractor do not require a statewide license.
How much does a contractor license cost in Vermont?
Initial licensing costs range from $225 to $235 depending on the trade, including application, exam, and license fees.
Does Vermont have license reciprocity with other states?
Yes, Vermont has reciprocity agreements with 2 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams or have an expedited application process.
What trades require a state license in Vermont?
Vermont requires statewide licenses for: electrician, plumber. General Contractor and HVAC Technician and Roofing Contractor licensing is handled at the local level.
Do I need workers compensation insurance in Vermont?
Workers comp required if you have employees. General liability strongly recommended but not state-mandated.