A contractor’s license is a license granted by the state licensing body to an individual engaged in the business of construction. For anybody harbouring intentions of operating as a contractor, this license is of utmost importance for it is a certification of his ability to adhere to the guidelines as stipulated by the state regarding the construction business. Once you are a licensed worker, it is quite easy for you to get construction projects. This is because all states maintain a listing of their licensed contractors, be it in the field of plumbing, road making or building repairs among several other categories. These lists are made available to the public at large.
How to get a license?
In order to become a licensed contractor, you will have to go through the stipulated process of obtaining a contractor’s license. This process is chalked out by the state governing bodies. Although the law varies from state to state, the general guidelines remain the same. You need to make an application, pay the requisite fee and appear for the contractor’s exam. Once you have cleared the exam and have undergone the process of background check, you are eligible to obtain a work permit from the sate governing body.
The benefits of being a licensed contractor have plenty of other benefits as well. The individual or company hiring you has faith in your abilities and tends to trust you with the big jobs. Also, if there were to be a dispute, the licensing board of the state which grants these licenses can play the role of a strong ally in the dispute resolution matters. You will always be at an advantage as a licensed contractor with the state.
The Process of Preparation
If you have the ambition of becoming a licensed contractor, you will have to be at least 18 years of age, and have all the documentation ready before you apply for the license. There is quite a bit of paperwork that is required and you have to provide it at each step. Before you decide to make the application, it is therefore recommended that you acquaint yourself with the application process. You must also have the clarity in your mind about what area of construction you want to be in.
The other important part is preparing for the contractor exam. You can either join a preparatory class, scour through online resources or study by yourself in order to prepare yourself for the exam. The exam has become mandatory in nearly every state of America today, so you have to be prepared for it. Once you have cleared your exam and paid the requisite fee, you will receive your contractor’s license from the state licensing board. This license is however valid for two years, post which it has to be renewed.
