Do I need a contractor license in Virginia?

Yes. Virginia requires a state-level contractor license for projects above Class A: unlimited; Class B: $10,000-$120,000; Class C: $1,000-$10,000. The administering board is Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) / Board for Contractors.

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VAState License RequiredNASCLA Accepted

Virginia Contractor License

Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) / Board for Contractors

Virginia requires a state-level contractor license for projects above Class A: unlimited; Class B: $10,000-$120,000; Class C: $1,000-$10,000. Exam required. NASCLA accepted. Administered by Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) / Board for Contractors.

Quick Reference

GC License Required: Yes
Threshold: Class A: unlimited; Class B: $10,000-$120,000; Class C: $1,000-$10,000
Exam Required: Yes
NASCLA Accepted: Yes

Official Board Website

Fees

Application Fee: $235 (Class C); $370 (Class B); $385 (Class A)
License Fee: Included in application fee
Renewal Fee: $235 - $385 biennially

Key Facts

Three license classes based on project value: A (unlimited), B ($10K-$120K), C ($1K-$10K)
8 hours of pre-license education required for all applicants
Class A and B require 3 exams; NASCLA accepted for trade portion
$50,000 surety bond required for Class A and B contractors

Insurance Requirements

General Liability

Not state-mandated but industry standard

Workers Comp

Required if you regularly employ more than 2 employees

Surety Bond

$50,000 for Class A and B; not required for Class C

Continuing Education

3 hours every 2 years

Reciprocity States

MDWVNCALLAMSSCTN

Specialty Licenses Required

ElectricalPlumbingHVACGas FittingFire SprinklerElevator

How to Apply

1Complete 8 hours of pre-license education
2Submit application to DPOR for the appropriate class (A, B, or C)
3Pass the required exams (NASCLA accepted for trade; VA business/law required)
4Obtain a $50,000 surety bond (Class A and B)
5Obtain workers compensation insurance if you have 3+ employees
6Pay application fee ($235-$385 depending on class)

Penalties for Unlicensed Work

Class 1 misdemeanor; fines up to $2,500; up to 12 months imprisonment; loss of lien rights

Related Templates

Pre-Qualification Questionnaire COI Request Form Subcontractor Agreement