Roofing License: How to Become a Licensed Roofer State-by-State

Do I need a roofing contractor license?

Yes, most states require a license to perform roofing work. While some states don’t require a license, many states do have licensing requirements in place. Plus, with a license, you can take on bigger projects and commercial contracts that often require licensed contractors in most states. 

This license requirement is in place to make sure that the folks doing roofing jobs have the right skills and knowledge. Having a roofing license brings some benefits like being seen as more trustworthy and reliable by potential clients. It shows that you know your stuff and can deliver quality work. 

However, there are some states, such as Texas, that do not require a license for roofing contractors. Other states, such as Colorado, don’t require a state-level license for roofing contractors, but that doesn’t mean there are no local-level requirements. Make sure you check with your local governments to find out if they have specific requirements. 

Jump to our state-specific roofing license requirements to learn more.

What can I do without a roofing license?

Without a roofing contractor license, you won’t be able to do much. 

In some areas, you might be able to perform minor repair work or maintenance without a license. However, major projects like roof installations or replacements typically require a licensed contractor. 

Working without a roofing contractor’s license can lead to severe legal consequences. Unlicensed contractors may face fines, legal action, and damaged reputations, lack necessary insurance coverage, and be ineligible for compensation in disputes. 

How long does it take?

Getting your license to be a roofing contractor differs by state, but on average, it can take anywhere from three months to a couple of years. 

This timeline depends on things like the amount of work experience required, exams, and application processing. Check with your state’s licensing board for the most accurate information. 

How much does a roofing license cost?

The cost of getting your license can vary widely depending on the state. On average, state licensing for roofing contractors can range between $150 to $500. 

However, additional costs may be incurred for exams, application processing, and other requirements.

Does a roofing license increase your earning potential?

Yes, getting a license can boost your earning potential because you can take on larger, more complex projects. As a licensed professional, clients will view you as more credible, experienced, and capable, which can lead to higher-paying opportunities.

The average annual wage for roofing contractors in the United States is $50,558. As a licensed contractor, you may have the opportunity to establish your own business, further increasing your earning potential.

To better understand the earning potential in the roofing industry, check out Jobber’s Essential Roofer Salary Guide. You can get the lowdown on how to make smart choices when it comes to what to pay your employees or plan your next career move in the roofing industry. 

How to get a roofing license: state-by-state

Getting a roofing license in the U.S. involves a few important steps: 

1. Experience: First, you’ll need to gain some hands-on experience in roofing to build your skills. 
2. Pass the exam: Make sure you understand the specific licensing requirements set by your city or state. These requirements often include passing a licensing exam that covers things like building permits, codes, and different classifications. 
3. Meet local requirements: You might also need to go through a background and credit check, and meet certain age or education criteria. 
4. Get insured: It’s also important to have the right insurance, like liability coverage and worker’s compensation, and to be bonded as well. Having the right insurance protects you from accidents, property damage, and laws, while also making you more trustworthy for clients.
5. Continuing education: Once licensed, you’ll likely need to continue your education to keep your license renewed.

Each state has different roofing contractor requirements, so make sure you are familiar with your state by checking our full list of state links and information below:

Jump to your state:

Alabama

To become a roofing contractor, register with the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors.

To become a licensed roofing contractor, you must complete the application form, submit the required documentation and fees, and obtain general liability insurance to protect your business and clients.

Ready to start? Get the complete steps to becoming a roofer in Alabama.

Alaska

To become a roofing contractor in Alaska, register with the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development. 

To get your license, complete the application form, submit the required documentation/fees, pass the examination, and provide proof of insurance.

Arizona

To start working as a roofing contractor in Arizona, register with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. 

To become a licensed roofing contractor, first, complete any education or experience requirements set by your jurisdiction. Next, fill out the application form and submit the required documentation and fees. Afterward, take and pass the examination. Finally, provide proof of insurance to ensure you meet all necessary requirements for obtaining a roofing contractor license.

Arkansas

To get your Residential Roofer Contractor License in Arkansas, register with the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board.To get your license, start by completing the residential roofer application. Then, submit the required documentation and fees as specified by your jurisdiction. After that, take and pass the necessary examinations. Finally, provide proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance to meet all licensing requirements.

California

To get your contractor’s license in California, register with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB).To become a licensed roofing contractor, first, fulfill any education or experience requirements mandated by your jurisdiction. Next, complete the application form and submit the necessary documentation and fees. Afterward, take and pass the licensing examination. Finally, provide proof of worker’s compensation insurance and a contractor’s bond to comply with all licensing requirements.

Ready to start? Learn the complete steps, costs, and requirements to earning your California Roofing License.

Colorado

In Colorado, there is no state-level license; instead, roofing  is regulated by the cities and counties. In Denver, you must register with both the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) and the City of Denver. 

To become a licensed roofing contractor, begin by fulfilling any education or experience requirements set by your jurisdiction. Next, complete the application form and submit the necessary documentation and fees. Finally, provide proof of insurance to comply with all licensing requirements.

Connecticut

To become a roofer, you must get your Home Improvement Contractor license through the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.

First, complete the application and submit the required documentation. You must also pay the registration fee and provide proof of insurance. 

Delaware

To start working as a roofing contractor in Delaware, register with the Delaware Division of Revenue. 

To become a licensed roofing contractor, first, fulfill any education or experience requirements mandated by your jurisdiction. Then, complete the registration process and submit the necessary documentation. Afterward, take and pass the licensing examination. Finally, provide proof of liability insurance to comply with all licensing requirements.

Florida

To start working as a roofing contractor in Florida, register with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

To become a licensed contractor, start by completing the application form and submitting the necessary documentation along with the required fee. Then, take and pass the licensing examination. Finally, provide proof of financial responsibility and liability insurance to meet all licensing requirements.

Ready to start? Get our full guide to applying for your roofing license in Florida.

Georgia

To start working as a roofing contractor in Georgia, there are four licenses to choose from before becoming a licensed contractor: 

• Residential Basic Contractor License
• Residential Light Contractor License
• Residential Basic Individual License
• Residential Light Individual License. 

To get your chosen license in Georgia, register with the Georgia Secretary of State – Professional Licensing Boards Division.

To get started, Complete the application form:

• Residential Basic Contractor License
• Residential Light Contractor License 
• Residential Basic Individual License
• Residential Light Individual License

Then, submit the required documentation and pay the fee. Write and pass the examination and provide proof of insurance.

Hawaii

To get your contractor’s license in Hawaii and start performing roofing work, register with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.

To become a licensed contractor, first, complete the application form and submit the required documentation along with the necessary fees. Next, take and pass the licensing examination. Lastly, provide proof of insurance to comply with all licensing requirements.

Idaho

To get your roofing contractor’s license in Idaho, register with the Idaho Division of Building Safety.

To become a licensed roofing contractor, start by completing the individual or business application form. Next, submit the required documentation and fees. Then, take and pass the licensing examination. Finally, provide proof of insurance to meet all licensing requirements.

Illinois

To get your contractor’s license in Illinois, register with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

To become a roofing contractor, begin by completing the application form and submitting the necessary documentation along with the required fee. Next, take and successfully complete the licensing examination. Finally, provide proof of liability insurance to comply with all licensing requirements.

Get the complete step-by-step process in our Guide to Roofing Licenses in Illinois.

Indiana

Indiana does not mandate licensing or registration for roofers; however, your local city or municipality may have specific requirements for obtaining a license or registration.

Start by registering with the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency and choose your desired city or county. Additionally, consider joining the optional Indiana Roofing Contractors Association to enhance your professional network and credibility.

Iowa

The state of Iowa does not have a roofer-specific license, but it does require roofers who make more than $2,000 to get registered with the Iowa Workforce Development – Division of Labor Services. 

You may also become certified with the Iowa Roofing Contractors Association to further enhance your professional credentials.

Kansas

To get your contractor’s license in Kansas, register with the Kansas Attorney General – Consumer Protection Division.

To begin the process, complete the application form and submit the required documentation. Lastly, provide proof of liability insurance to meet all necessary requirements.

Kentucky

In Kentucky, there is no licensing requirement for roofing contractors, nor is there a government agency responsible for overseeing business practices among these professionals.

While there is no licensing authority, The Kentucky Roofing Contractors Association offers non-governmental certifications. 

Louisiana

The Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors offers a Residential Contractor License and Commercial Contractor License for those looking to become licensed roofing contractors.

First, complete the online application and submit the required documentation and fees. Next, pass the examination, and, finally, provide proof of insurance to meet all necessary requirements.

Maine

The state of Maine does not offer roofer’s licenses and does not require roofers to be registered. However, your specific municipality may require you to be registered. 

To get started, check your local municipality to see if you need to register for either the trade license or business license. 

Maryland

To become a roofer, you must get your Home Improvement Contractor License in Maryland, registering with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission. 

Begin by completing the application form provided on this page. Next, submit the required documentation and fees, followed by passing the examination. Lastly, provide proof of insurance to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Massachusetts

To perform roofing work, you must get your Construction Supervisor License in Massachusetts, registering with the Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure. 

Start by completing the application form; then submit the required documentation. Proceed to pass the examination, and, finally, provide proof of insurance to meet all essential requirements.

Michigan

To become a roofer and perform work, you must get your Residential Builders License or Maintenance and Alteration Contractor (MAC) License in Massachusetts, registering with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. 

First, fulfill the necessary education and experience requirements. Then, complete the application form and submit the required documentation. Afterward, pass the examination and provide proof of insurance to meet all essential criteria.

Minnesota

To become a roofer, you must get your Residential Roofer License in Minnesota, registering with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. 

Begin by completing the application form and submitting the required documentation along with the necessary fee. Finally, provide proof of insurance to meet all essential requirements.

Mississippi

To get your Commercial Contractor License or Residential Contractor License in Mississippi, register with the Mississippi State Board of Contractors. 

First, complete the application form for either a Commercial Contractor License or a Residential Contractor License. Next, submit the required documentation and fee, followed by passing the examination. Lastly, provide proof of insurance to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Missouri

The state of Missouri doesn’t require contractors to register for licenses, however, businesses must register with the Missouri Secretary of State. 

Register with the Secretary of State if you are looking to start a roofing business.   

Montana

To get your roofing contractor’s license in Montana, register with the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.

Begin by completing the application form; then submit the required documentation along with the necessary fee. Finally, provide proof of insurance to meet all essential requirements.

Nebraska

To get your roofing contractor’s license in Nebraska, register with the Nebraska Department of Labor.

Start by registering as a contractor, followed by submitting the required documentation. Lastly, provide proof of insurance to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Nevada

To work as a roofer in Nevada, register with the Nevada State Contractors Board.

First, complete the pre-licensing qualifications. Then, fill out the application form and submit the required documentation along with the necessary fee. Finally, provide proof of insurance to meet all essential requirements.

New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, contractors are not required to have a license. You can work freely in the majority of cities, provided you obtain a permit from the local office you’re working in. 

However, if you’re looking to start a roofing business, register your business with the state of New Hampshire. 

New Jersey

To work as a roofer, you must get your Home Improvement Contractor license in New Jersey, and register with the State of New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance. 

First, complete the application and submit the required documentation and fees. Next, provide proof of insurance to meet all necessary requirements.

New Mexico

To get your roofing contractor’s license in New Mexico, register with the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department.

Begin by completing the application form; then proceed to submit the required documentation. Next, pass the examination, and, finally, provide proof of insurance to fulfill all necessary requirements.

New York

To become a roofer, you must get your Home Improvement Contractor license in the city of your choosing, as New York licenses city-by-city instead of state-wide. In New York City, register with the New York Department of Consumer Affairs. 

First, complete the application form. Then, submit the required documentation along with the necessary fee. Lastly, provide proof of insurance to meet all essential requirements.

North Carolina

To work as a roofer, you must get your General Contractor License in North Carolina, and register with the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors.

Start by completing the application, followed by submitting the required documentation. Next, pass the examination, and, finally, provide proof of insurance to fulfill all necessary requirements.

North Dakota

To work as a roofing contractor, you must get your Contractor License in North Dakota, and register with the North Dakota Secretary of State – Contractor’s Licensing Board.

Start by completing the application, followed by submitting the required documentation. Next, provide proof of insurance to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Ohio

The state of Ohio does not mandate a roofing contractor license. 

However, if your roofing business offers home improvement services in Ohio, you might need to adhere to other licensing regulations at the state or local level. Make sure to review your local licensing laws and refer to the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board. 

Oklahoma

To get your roofing contractor’s license in Oklahoma, register with the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board. 

Begin by completing the application form; then submit the required documentation and fees. Next, pass the PSI examination, and, lastly, provide proof of insurance to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Serious about starting? Learn how to become a licensed roofer in Oklahoma.

Oregon

If you want to become a roofer, get your Construction Contractor License or Residential Specialty Contractor License in Oregon, and register with the Oregon Construction Contractors Board. 

Start by completing the pre-licensing training for either construction contractors or residential contractors. Then, proceed with the application for the construction contractors form or the residential contractors form. 

Following that, submit the required documentation and fees. Next, pass the PSI examination for construction contractors and residential specialties. Finally, provide proof of insurance along with a surety bond to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Pennsylvania

To get your roofing contractor’s license in Pennsylvania, register with the Pennsylvania Attorney General – Bureau of Consumer Protection. First, complete the registration process. Then, submit the required documentation along with the necessary fee. Lastly, provide proof of insurance to meet all essential requirements.

Rhode Island

To become a roofer, get your Home Improvement Contractor Registration from the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation. 

Begin by completing the pre-registration courses. Next, proceed with the application process, followed by submitting the required documentation and fees. Lastly, provide proof of insurance to fulfill all necessary requirements.

South Carolina

To become a roofer in South Carolina, get either the Residential Builder License or Commercial Builder License from the South Carolina Contractor’s Licensing Board. 

To start, complete the application form for either the residential builders or commercial builders. Then, submit the required documentation and fees. Following that, pass the PSI examination. Finally, provide proof of insurance to meet all essential requirements.

South Dakota

In South Dakota, there are no roofing contractor licenses. However, all types of contractors engaged in construction need to register for a South Dakota Contractor’s Tax License with the Department of Revenue. 

First, complete the application process. Next, submit the required documentation. Lastly, provide proof of insurance to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Tennessee

To become a roofing contractor in Tennessee, get your Home Improvement Contractor License from the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors.

Begin by completing the application form. Then, submit the required documentation. Finally, provide proof of insurance to meet all essential requirements.

Texas

Currently, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation does not administer licensure for roofing contractors. This means that anyone can claim to be a roofer in Texas without being required to have the knowledge, insurance, licensing, or state registration.

To enhance consumer protection and boost public confidence in the roofing industry, the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT) was established. This program aims to raise the roofing contractor’s knowledge and professionalism through voluntary self-regulation.

Learn more about applying for the RCAT Texas Roofing License.

Utah

To get your roofing contractor’s license in Utah, register with the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.

Begin by completing the experience requirements. Next, fill out the application form and submit the required documentation along with the fee. Afterward, pass the examination. Finally, provide proof of insurance to meet all essential requirements.

Vermont

To become a roofer in Vermont, acquire a Residential Contractor license from the State of Vermont Office. 

Start by completing the online application form. Then, submit the required documentation. Lastly, provide proof of insurance to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Virginia

To get your roofing contractor’s license in Virginia, register with the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. 

Complete the pre-licensing education. Next, fill out the application form and submit the required documentation along with the fees. Finally, pass the examination to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Washington

To work as a roofer in Washington, you must register with the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.

Begin by registering with the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries to fulfill the necessary requirement. 

West Virginia

To get your roofing contractor’s license in West Virginia, register with the West Virginia Division of Labor – Contractor Licensing Board.

Start by completing the application form. Next, submit the required documentation. Then, pass the PSI examination. Finally, provide proof of insurance to meet all essential requirements.

Wisconsin

To become a roofer in Wisconsin, get your Dwelling Contractor License from the  Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.

Begin by completing the application form. Then, submit the required documentation along with the fee. Lastly, provide proof of insurance to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Wyoming

In Wyoming, roofing contractors are not required to have a state license to work. However, be sure to check for any local licensing requirements before starting your project.

Begin by looking into local laws and regulations specifically for roofing projects to ensure full compliance.