General Contractor License Requirements in West Virginia
| Licensing Authority | West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board (WVCLB) |
| License Type | Class B - General Building |
| Experience Required | 5 years of construction experience for Class A and Class B; 3 years for Class B-2 (Residential) and B-3 (Multi-Family) |
| Education Substitute | Construction management degree may substitute for up to 2 years of experience |
| Exam Required | Yes — WV Business and Law Exam + Trade Exam (Class B General Building) |
| Bond Required | Yes — Mandatory Wage Bond Affidavit required for all applicants. Contractors not actively engaged in WV construction for 5+ consecutive years must obtain a Wage Bond covering 4 weeks gross payroll at full production plus 15%. Contractors performing only residential single-family work may be exempt from the wage bond requirement. |
| Insurance | General liability: recommended. Workers comp: required |
| Continuing Education | Not required |
| Processing Time | 6-10 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $90 |
| Exam Fee | $120 |
| Exam fee per section | $60 |
| Est. Initial Total | $270 |
Renewal: $90 every 1 year
Exam Requirements
WV Business and Law Exam
Trade Exam (Class B General Building)
Exam provider: PSI
License Tiers
Class A - General Engineering
5 years construction experience
Exam: Required
Class B - General Building
5 years construction experience
Exam: Required
Class B-2 - Residential
3 years residential construction experience
Exam: Required
Class B-3 - Multi-Family
3 years multi-family construction experience
Exam: Required
License Reciprocity
This state has reciprocity agreements with 2 states. View full reciprocity details — You may be able to skip the trade exam if you hold a valid license from one of these states.
Notes
- NASCLA exam accepted for Class B (General Building) trade exam
- 2025 Universal Professional Licensing Act: contractors licensed in another state for 1+ years in good standing may practice in WV without re-examination
- WV is one of 16 NASCLA-accepting states
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a general contractor license in West Virginia?
Yes, West Virginia requires a statewide general contractor license through the West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board.
How much does a general contractor license cost in West Virginia?
The estimated initial cost is $210, including application, exam, and license fees.
What experience do I need for a general contractor license in West Virginia?
5 years of construction experience for Class A and Class B; 3 years for Class B-2 (Residential) and B-3 (Multi-Family) Education substitute: Construction management degree may substitute for up to 2 years of experience
What exams are required for a general contractor license in West Virginia?
You must pass the WV Business and Law Exam and Trade Exam (Class B General Building) exams. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by PSI.
Do I need a bond for a general contractor license in West Virginia?
Yes, a surety bond is required. Mandatory Wage Bond Affidavit required for all applicants. Contractors not actively engaged in WV construction for 5+ consecutive years must obtain a Wage Bond covering 4 weeks gross payroll at full production plus 15%. Contractors performing only residential single-family work may be exempt from the wage bond requirement.
Does West Virginia have general contractor license reciprocity?
Yes, West Virginia has reciprocity agreements with 2 states that may apply to general contractors. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams or have an expedited application process.
How long does it take to get a general contractor license in West Virginia?
Processing time is typically 6-10 weeks after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for general contractors in West Virginia?
No, West Virginia does not currently require continuing education for general contractor license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: WVCLB