Licensing Verification
Any contractor performing paid work. Requirements vary by trade, state, county, and city.
Do this first
Search your state licensing board website for your trade. Then check your county and city for additional requirements. Do this before advertising, bidding jobs, or accepting payment.
- 1.Look up your state licensing board website (see links below) and search for your specific trade
- 2.Determine if your trade requires a state license, registration, or certification
- 3.Check if experience hours, apprenticeship completion, or an exam are required
- 4.If an exam is required, find approved exam prep resources through your state board or trade association
- 5.Check your county government website for county-level contractor registration
- 6.Check your city/municipality for a local business license or occupational license
- 7.Apply for all required licenses before advertising or accepting paid work
- 8.Display your license number on your website, estimates, invoices, vehicle, and business cards
- 9.Set calendar reminders for renewal deadlines — most licenses expire annually or biannually
- 10.Track any continuing education (CE) requirements needed for renewal
Cheapest path
Every state licensing board website is free to search. Start there. Many local business licenses cost $25–$100/year. If an exam is required, trade associations often offer study materials at reduced cost or free to members.
Tools to compare
Not endorsements or paid placements. Compare these and other providers.
Free lookup and application. Direct source of truth for your trade requirements.
When to use: You need to check requirements, verify your license status, or apply for a new license.
Exam prep, CE credits, networking, and often discounted insurance and bonding.
When to use: You need exam prep, continuing education, or want industry credibility.
Handles multi-state reciprocity, complex applications, and exam scheduling.
When to use: You work across state lines, need reciprocity, or have a complicated licensing history.
Educational guidance only. Fee ranges and penalty amounts are approximate examples that vary by jurisdiction. Verify all requirements and current fees directly with your state, county, and city authorities. This is not legal advice.