General Contractor License Requirements in Virginia
| Licensing Authority | Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Board for Contractors (DPOR) |
| License Type | Class A / B / C - Building Contractor (BLD) |
| Experience Required | Class A: 5 years verified experience. Class B: 3 years. Class C: 2 years. Experience must be verified by individuals who observed the applicant's work. All applicants must complete 8 hours of DPOR-approved pre-license education. |
| Education Substitute | Relevant construction management degree or technical education may substitute for a portion of experience — evaluated case by case by DPOR |
| Exam Required | Yes — Class A Business & Law (Parts 1-3) + Class B Business & Law (Parts 1-2 only) + Class C Business & Law |
| Bond Required | Yes — $50,000 |
| Insurance | General liability: recommended. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | Not required |
| Processing Time | ~30 days (4 weeks) |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $360 |
| Exam Fee | $85 |
| Class B application | $345 |
| Class C application | $210 |
| Pre-license education (approx.) | $200 |
| Est. Initial Total | $1,200 |
Renewal: $270 every 2 years
Exam Requirements
Class A Business & Law (Parts 1-3)
Class B Business & Law (Parts 1-2 only)
Class C Business & Law
Exam provider: PSI
License Tiers
Class A
5 years verified experience; net worth $45,000+; no project limit
Exam: Required
Class B
3 years verified experience; net worth $15,000+; projects under $120,000 / annual under $750,000
Exam: Required
Class C
2 years verified experience; no net worth minimum; projects under $10,000 / annual under $150,000
Exam: Required
Notes
- 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+
- Class C: single project under $10,000; annual revenue under $150,000; no net worth requirement
- 8 hours pre-license education required for all classes
Local requirements on top of your Virginia license
The DPOR general contractor license is the credential that lets you work anywhere in Virginia. On top of it, most Virginia cities and counties require a local business license (a tax registration) to operate, and a few add their own contractor registration or permit. These are in addition to your state license, not a replacement — always confirm the rules with the city or county where the job is.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a general contractor license in Virginia?
Yes, Virginia requires a statewide general contractor license through the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Board for Contractors.
How much does a general contractor license cost in Virginia?
The estimated initial cost is $445, including application, exam, and license fees. A $50,000 surety bond is also required.
What experience do I need for a general contractor license in Virginia?
Class A: 5 years verified experience. Class B: 3 years. Class C: 2 years. Experience must be verified by individuals who observed the applicant's work. All applicants must complete 8 hours of DPOR-approved pre-license education. Education substitute: Relevant construction management degree or technical education may substitute for a portion of experience — evaluated case by case by DPOR
What exams are required for a general contractor license in Virginia?
You must pass the Class A Business & Law (Parts 1-3) and Class B Business & Law (Parts 1-2 only) and Class C Business & Law exams. A passing score of Part 1 (VA questions): 75%; Part 2 (General): 70%; Part 3 (Advanced, Class A only): 70% is required. Exams are administered by PSI.
Do I need a bond for a general contractor license in Virginia?
Yes, a $50,000 surety bond is required. Class A and B: $50,000 surety bond may be posted in lieu of meeting net worth requirement. Class C: bond not required. Annual premium typically $350-$2,500 depending on credit.
How long does it take to get a general contractor license in Virginia?
Processing time is typically ~30 days (4 weeks) after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for general contractors in Virginia?
No, Virginia does not currently require continuing education for general contractor license renewal.
Next steps
You know the requirements for general contractors in Virginia— here's how to actually pass and apply.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: DPOR