Virginia Contractor & Trade License Requirements
Virginia requires statewide contractor licensing through the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) Board for Contractors. Virginia uses a tiered system based on project value: Class A (unlimited), Class B (up to $120,000 per project / $750,000 annual), and Class C (up to $10,000 per project / $150,000 annual). Individual tradesmen (electricians, plumbers, HVAC) are licensed separately under the Tradesmen Program with journeyman and master tiers. All contractor licenses are issued to business entities, not individuals.
General Contractor
RequiredElectrician
RequiredPlumber
RequiredHVAC Technician
RequiredRoofing Contractor
RequiredReciprocity Agreements
Virginia has reciprocity agreements with 7 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams.
Virginia Licensing Overview
Virginia requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 contractor trades. The licensed trades — general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor — are regulated by 2 separate agencies: Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Board for Contractors (DPOR), Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Board for Contractors — Tradesmen Program (DPOR). Across all licensed trades, initial costs range from $175 to $445, including application fees, exams, and license issuance. Virginia also participates in reciprocity agreements with 7 other states, which can streamline the process for out-of-state contractors.
Virginia Contractor License Cost Summary
| Trade | Application | Exam | License | Bond | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | $360 | $85 | — | $50,000 | $445 |
| Electrician | $75 | $100 | — | — | $175 |
| Plumber | $75 | $100 | — | — | $175 |
| HVAC Technician | $75 | $100 | — | — | $175 |
| Roofing Contractor | $360 | $85 | — | $50,000 | $445 |
Estimated totals include application, exam, license, and fingerprinting fees. Bond amounts are separate and typically paid as an annual premium.
Key Facts About Virginia Contractor Licensing
- Virginia does not require general liability insurance for contractors. Workers compensation is required when regularly employing more than 2 employees (including part-time, seasonal, and subcontractors).
- Virginia has reciprocity agreements with 7 states, which may allow licensed contractors to skip certain exams.
- License is issued to the business entity, not an individual — a Designated Employee or Responsible Management member must qualify
- Class A: no project or annual revenue limit; net worth $45,000+
- Class B: single project under $120,000; annual revenue under $750,000; net worth $15,000+
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Virginia require a contractor license?
Yes, Virginia requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 trades: general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor.
How much does a contractor license cost in Virginia?
Initial licensing costs range from $175 to $445 depending on the trade, including application, exam, and license fees.
Does Virginia have license reciprocity with other states?
Yes, Virginia has reciprocity agreements with 7 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams or have an expedited application process.
Do I need workers compensation insurance in Virginia?
Virginia does not require general liability insurance for contractors. Workers compensation is required when regularly employing more than 2 employees (including part-time, seasonal, and subcontractors).
Official Virginia Licensing Resources
- Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Board for Contractors (DPOR) — for general contractor, roofing contractor
- Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Board for Contractors — Tradesmen Program (DPOR) — for electrician, plumber, hvac technician