How to Get a Roofing License in Every U.S. State

Do I need a roofing contractor license?

Yes, most states require a license to perform roofing work. While a few states like Texas and Wyoming don’t mandate a state-level license, the majority do. Having a roofing contractor license lets you take on bigger projects and commercial contracts that often require proof of licensing.

Licensing requirements ensure that people performing roofing work have the necessary skills and training. A license also makes you more trustworthy to potential clients because it shows you meet your state’s quality and safety standards.

Some states, like Colorado, don’t require a state-level roofing license but regulate contractors at the city or county level instead. Always check with your local government to find out if they have specific requirements beyond what the state mandates.

Jump to the state-by-state roofing license requirements below.

What can I do without a roofing license?

Without a roofing contractor license, your options are limited. In some areas, you might be able to handle minor repair work or basic maintenance. Major projects, like roof installations or full replacements, almost always require a licensed contractor.

In many states, the need for a license depends on the dollar value of the job. For example, Alabama requires licensing for projects over $2,500, Idaho’s threshold is $2,000, and North Dakota’s is $4,000. The threshold varies by state and sometimes by municipality.

Working without a license can lead to serious consequences. Unlicensed contractors face fines, legal action, and damaged reputations. You may also lack the roofing insurance coverage you need and be unable to collect payment in the event of a dispute.

READ MORE: How to become a roofer in 5 steps

Benefits of getting a roofing license

A roofing license gives you access to bigger contracts and better-paying clients, with full legal protection for your business.

• Credibility and trust. Homeowners and property managers look for licensed contractors first. A license proves you’ve met your state’s requirements for training, experience, and financial responsibility. That trust translates directly into more jobs.
• Legal compliance. Operating without a license in a state that requires one can result in fines, stop-work orders, and even criminal charges in some jurisdictions. A license keeps you on the right side of the law.
• Access to larger contracts. Many commercial projects, government contracts, and insurance restoration jobs require proof of licensing. Without it, you’re locked out of some of the most profitable work in roofing.
• Insurance eligibility. Most business insurance providers require a valid contractor license before they’ll issue a policy. And without proper insurance, you’re personally liable for accidents, property damage, and worker injuries on the job.
• Consumer protection and repeat business. Licensed contractors often show up in state licensing board directories, making it easier for customers to find and verify you. That visibility, combined with the professionalism a license signals, helps you build a client base that comes back and refers you to others.

How long does it take to get a roofing license?

Getting your roofing contractor license can take anywhere from three months to a couple of years, depending on your state.

The timeline depends on factors like required work experience (some states require two to four years), exam preparation and scheduling, application processing times, and background check requirements. Check with your state’s licensing board for the most accurate timeline.

How much does a roofing license cost?

State licensing fees for roofing contractors typically range from $150 to $500, though costs vary widely by state. Some states charge more for unlimited license categories or higher contract value tiers.

Beyond the application fee, budget for additional costs like:

• Exam fees: $50 to $300, depending on the state and testing provider
• Surety bonds: $100 to $500 per year for common bond amounts ($10,000 to $25,000)
• Insurance premiums: General liability and workers’ compensation coverage
• Continuing education: Many states require ongoing training to renew your license

Roofing contractor training programs and schools

If you’re just getting started in roofing or want to strengthen your credentials, several national programs can help you build the skills and certifications you need.

• NRCA training and certification: The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) offers training programs covering installation techniques, safety standards, and roof system knowledge. NRCA certifications are widely recognized across the industry.
• NCCER construction training: The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) provides accredited training curricula for roofing and other construction trades. Many community colleges and trade schools use NCCER programs as the foundation of their coursework.
• Registered apprenticeships: Apprenticeships are one of the most common paths into roofing. They typically run for three to five years and combine on-the-job paid training with classroom instruction. You can search for roofing apprenticeship programs near you through Apprenticeship.gov’s roofer occupation finder.
• Union apprenticeships: The United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers, and Allied Workers runs apprenticeship programs across the country. Union apprenticeships provide structured training, competitive wages during the program, and access to union job networks after completion.

Many states also accept a combination of documented work experience and trade school coursework in place of a formal apprenticeship. Check your state’s licensing board requirements for accepted education and training paths.

Who issues roofing licenses?

Roofing licenses are handled at the state, not the federal, level. The specific agency varies from state to state.

Common issuing agencies include:

• State contractor licensing boards (like California’s Contractors State License Board or Florida’s Construction Industry Licensing Board)
• Departments of labor (like Minnesota’s Department of Labor and Industry)
• Secretary of state offices (like North Dakota’s Secretary of State, Contractor’s Licensing Board)
• Departments of professional regulation (like Illinois’ Department of Financial and Professional Regulation)

Some states, like Colorado, don’t issue roofing licenses at the state level at all. Instead, cities and counties handle contractor licensing. In Denver, for example, you need both a supervisor certificate and a contractor license from the city.

A few states, like Texas, Wyoming, and New Hampshire, don’t require a roofing license. Even in those states, you may need to register your business or obtain local permits.

The state-by-state section below lists the exact agency and requirements for every U.S. state.

Does a roofing license increase your earning potential?

Yes. Licensed roofers earn more because they can take on larger, more complex projects. Clients see licensed contractors as more credible and capable, which leads to higher-paying jobs.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, roofers in the U.S. earn:

• Median annual wage: $50,970 ($24.51/hour)
• 25th percentile: $45,300/year
• 75th percentile: $64,010/year

As a licensed contractor, you also have the option to start your own business, which can push your earning potential even higher. For a deeper breakdown, check out Jobber’s essential roofer salary guide.

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

Getting a roofing license in the U.S. involves a few common steps, though the details vary by state:

• Experience: Build hands-on roofing experience. Many states require 2 to 4 years of documented work experience.
• Pass the exam: Most states require a licensing exam covering building codes, permits, and trade knowledge.
• Meet local requirements: You may need to pass a background check, credit check, or meet age and education criteria.
• Get insured: Liability coverage and workers’ compensation insurance are required in most states. Being bonded is also common.
• Continuing education: Many states require ongoing training to keep your license renewed.

Each state has different requirements for roofing contractors. Find your state below.

Jump to your state:

Alabama

To become a roofing contractor and work on projects worth more than $2,500, register with the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors.

To get your license, complete the application form, submit the required documentation and fees, secure a $10,000 license/permit bond, and obtain general liability insurance. There are no education requirements or exams to pass.

You’ll also need a Designated Qualifying Representative (DQR) who meets all licensing requirements to validate your experience and ability to perform roofing work. This is submitted as part of your application package.

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

Alaska

To become a roofing contractor in Alaska, register with the Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing through the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development.

To get your license:

• Provide proof of a bond ($25,000 for general contractors, $10,000 for specialty contractors)
• Complete the application form as either a general contractor with a residential endorsement or a specialty roofing contractor
• Submit the required documentation and fees
• Pass the examination
• Provide proof of general liability insurance (and workers’ compensation if you have employees)

Arizona

To start working as a roofing contractor in Arizona, register with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. License classes eligible for roofing services include general commercial or residential contractors and specialty commercial or residential roofing contractors.

First, complete any education or experience requirements set by your jurisdiction. Next, fill out the application form and submit the required documentation and fees. Then take and pass the Statute and Rules and Trade examinations.

Finally, provide proof of insurance and a bond based on the amount of work you expect to perform. For example, general residential contractors need a $15,000 bond if they expect to perform work with a total value of over $750,000.

Arkansas

To get your Residential Roofer Contractor License in Arkansas, register with the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board and the Residential Committee.

Complete the residential roofer application through the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board, submit the required documentation and fees, and take and pass the necessary examinations.

Finally, provide proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance and secure a $15,000 surety bond to meet all licensing requirements.

California

To get your contractor’s license in California, register with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) through the Department of Consumer Affairs.

First, fulfill any education or experience requirements. Next, complete the application form for the C-39 roofing contractor license and submit the necessary documentation and fees. Then take and pass the Business and Law and trade licensing examinations. Finally, provide proof of workers’ compensation insurance and a $25,000 contractor’s bond.

Ready to start? Learn the complete steps, costs, and requirements for your California roofing license.

Colorado

Colorado does not have a state-level roofing license. Instead, roofing is regulated by cities and counties. In Denver, you must register with both the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) and the City of Denver.

Using Denver as an example, you’ll first need your supervisor certificate before applying for a contractor license. To get your supervisor certificate, complete the application and provide proof of your experience.

Once you have your supervisor certificate, you can apply for a licensed roofing contractor license. Complete the experience requirements, fill out the application form, submit documentation and fees, and provide proof of insurance.

Connecticut

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

Complete the license application and submit the required documentation. Pay the registration fee and provide proof of general liability insurance with at least $20,000 in coverage.

The Home Improvement Contractor license does not allow you to build new homes, complete a portion of a new build, or work on commercial projects.

Delaware

Delaware doesn’t have a statewide license for roofing or general construction contractors. However, some jurisdictions have their own rules and requirements. Check with your local municipality to confirm you’re eligible to perform roofing work.

To start working as a roofing contractor or operate a roofing business with employees in Delaware, register with the Delaware Division of Revenue and the Delaware Department of Labor’s Office of Contractor Registration.

Complete the registration process for a construction contractor and submit the necessary documentation through the Delaware OneStop portal.

Florida

To start working as a roofing contractor in Florida, register with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) through the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB).

Complete the application form and submit documentation, proof of experience, and the required fee. Then, take and pass the Business and Finance and General Trade Knowledge licensing examinations. Finally, provide proof of financial responsibility and public liability, property damage, and workers’ compensation insurance.

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

Georgia

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

Complete the application form for the license type you need:

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

Submit the required documentation and pay the fee. Pass the examination and provide proof of insurance.

Hawaii

To get your contractor’s license in Hawaii, register with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs through the Professional & Vocational Licensing Division and the Contractors Licensing Board.

Complete the application form and submit the required documentation and fees. Take and pass the licensing examination. Provide proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance.

Idaho

Contractors are not required to be licensed in Idaho. However, you must register with the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses to perform roofing work with a value over $2,000, including materials and labor.

To become a registered roofing contractor, submit an application with the necessary documentation and fees. This includes proof of workers’ compensation insurance or a statement explaining why it’s not required, and proof of general liability insurance. The application must also include a statement of the type of construction to be done.

Illinois

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

To become a roofing contractor (limited or unlimited), complete the application form and submit the required documentation and fee. Designate a qualifying party to take and pass the licensing examination. Provide proof of liability insurance and secure the necessary bond ($10,000 for limited, $25,000 for unlimited).

Get the complete step-by-step process in our guide to roofing licenses in Illinois.

Indiana

Indiana does not require roofers to be licensed or registered. However, your city or municipality may have specific requirements.

Start by checking with the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency for your city or county’s rules. You can also consider joining the Indiana Roofing Contractors Association to build your professional network and credibility.

Iowa

Iowa does not have a roofer-specific license, but roofers who earn more than $2,000 must register with the Iowa Workforce Development, Division of Labor Services.

You can also become certified through the Iowa Roofing Contractors Association to strengthen your professional credentials.

Kansas

To get your roofing contractor’s certificate in Kansas, register with the Kansas Attorney General’s Office through the License & Inspection Division.

The Kansas Roofing Registration Act requires all roofing contractors performing residential or commercial work to obtain a registration certificate from the Kansas AG before providing services.

Complete the application form and submit the required documentation. Provide proof of liability insurance of at least $500,000, workers’ compensation insurance or exemption, and a tax clearance certificate from the Kansas Department of Revenue.

Kentucky

Kentucky does not require roofing contractors to be licensed, and there is no government agency overseeing roofers’ business practices.

While there’s no state licensing authority, the Kentucky Roofing Contractors Association previously offered a voluntary certified contractor membership that required at least 1 year of work experience, proof of insurance, a $10,000 bond, and 10 annual hours of continuing education. Check with local municipalities for any city-level requirements.

READ MORE: Learn how to start a roofing company in Kentucky

Louisiana

The Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors offers a Residential Contractor License and a Commercial Contractor License for roofing contractors.

Complete the online application and submit the required documentation and fees. Pass the Business, Law, and Trade examinations. Provide proof of insurance and a $10,000 net worth.

Maine

Maine does not issue roofer-specific licenses and does not require roofers to register at the state level. However, your specific municipality may require registration.

Check with your local municipality to see if you need a trade license or business license before starting work.

Maryland

To become a roofer in Maryland, get your Home Improvement Contractor License and register with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission.

Complete the application form and submit the required documentation and fees. Pass the examination. You must have at least two years of experience in construction or home improvement (or related education) to apply.

Provide proof of financial solvency through a credit report and net worth, and $50,000 in liability insurance.

Massachusetts

To perform roofing work in Massachusetts, get your Construction Supervisor License through the Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure. You can apply for an unrestricted one- to two-family dwelling or a specialty roofing license.

Complete the application form and submit the required documentation, including proof of 3 years of prior work experience. Pass the examination and mail your results to the Board of Building Regulations and Standards.

Michigan

To become a roofer in Michigan, get your Residential Builders License or Maintenance and Alteration Contractor (MAC) License through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

First, complete the education and experience requirements, which include 60 hours of prelicensure training courses. Complete the application form, submit documentation, and pass the examination.

Minnesota

To become a roofer in Minnesota, get your Residential Roofer License through the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.

You can apply online or submit an application. Include all required documentation and the necessary fee. Provide proof of a $15,000 surety bond, liability insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, and unemployment insurance.

Mississippi

To get your license in Mississippi, register with the Mississippi State Board of Contractors.

Complete the application form for either a Commercial Contractor License or a Residential Contractor License. You can specify whether you’re seeking a license for residential roofing or for additional work types such as remodeling, plumbing, or electrical work.

Submit the required documentation and fee. Pass both the Business and Law and applicable trade examinations. Provide proof of employment, general liability insurance, and workers’ compensation insurance (if you have employees).

Missouri

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

Register with the Secretary of State if you’re starting a roofing business.

Montana

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

Complete the construction contractor registration application form and submit the required documentation and fee. Provide proof of workers’ compensation insurance (if you have employees).

Nebraska

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

Register as a contractor and submit documentation, including information about your identity, business, employees, and services. Provide proof of workers’ compensation insurance (if you have employees).

Nevada

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

You can also earn a roofing specialty certification under a C-15 classification. Fill out the application form on the Nevada State Contractors Board website and submit the required documentation and fee.

The application requires proof of previous experience, a background check, a financial statement to determine the license value, and proof of insurance.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire does not require contractors to have a license. You can work in most cities as long as you obtain a permit from the local office.

If you’re starting a roofing business, register with the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration.

New Jersey

To work as a roofer in New Jersey, get your Home Improvement Contractor license and register with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.

Complete the application and submit documentation and fees. Provide proof of $500,000 in commercial liability insurance.

New Mexico

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

Complete the application form and submit the required documentation. Pass the examination and provide proof of a $10,000 surety bond.

New York

In New York, roofing licenses are issued by the city, not the state. In New York City, register with the New York Department of Consumer and Worker Protection to get your Home Improvement Contractor license.

Complete the application form, submit documentation and the fee, and provide proof of insurance.Follow this checklist for a complete application:

• License fee
• License application
• Sales tax ID Number OR Application confirmation number
• Business and home address
• Proof of workers’ compensation insurance 
• Proof of U.S. EPA certification (if necessary)
• Trust fund enrollment OR $20,000 surety bond
• Compliance agreement
• Home improvement exam and fee
• Fingerprints and processing fee

North Carolina

To work as a roofer in North Carolina, get your General Contractor License or Residential Contractor License through the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors.

Complete the application, submit documentation, pass the examination, and provide proof of insurance.

Licenses in North Carolina come in limited, intermediate, and unlimited categories, each with different requirements for working capital and surety bonds. Double-check the type of license you’re applying for to understand the full requirements.

North Dakota

To work as a roofing contractor in North Dakota, get your Contractor License through the North Dakota Secretary of State, Contractor’s Licensing Board. You need a contractor license once a project’s value exceeds $4,000.

Complete the application through the online portal and submit documentation. Provide proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance.

License fees are determined by your contract amounts, ranging from up to $100,000 per job to more than $500,000 per job.

Ohio

Ohio does not mandate a roofing contractor license at the state level.

However, if your roofing business offers home improvement services, you may need to meet other licensing regulations at the state or local level. 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.

Complete the application form and submit documentation and fees. Pass the PSI examination and provide proof of general liability insurance ($500,000 minimum) and workers’ compensation insurance.

Want the full breakdown? Learn how to become a licensed roofer in Oklahoma.

Oregon

To become a roofer in Oregon, get your Construction Contractor License or Residential Specialty Contractor License through the Oregon Construction Contractors Board.

Complete the pre-licensing training with an approved provider. Fill out the application and submit documentation and fees. Pass the PSI examination for your contractor type. Provide proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance along with a surety bond.

Pennsylvania

To get your roofing contractor’s license in Pennsylvania, register with the Pennsylvania Attorney General, Bureau of Consumer Protection.

Complete the registration process and Home Improvement Contractor application. Submit documentation and the required fee. Provide proof of liability insurance.

Rhode Island

To become a roofer in Rhode Island, register as a contractor with the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation.

Complete the pre-registration courses. Then proceed with the application process, which includes proof of your pre-registration courses, a certificate of liability insurance ($500,000), workers’ compensation insurance, and your registration fee.

South Carolina

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

Complete the application form for either residential builders or general contractors, along with documentation and fees. Documentation includes financial statements, proof of surety bonds and insurance, prior work experience, and information on the primary qualifying person (PQP).

Pass the PSI examination to complete the process.

South Dakota

South Dakota does not require roofing contractor licenses. However, all contractors engaged in construction need to register for a South Dakota Contractor’s Tax License with the Department of Revenue.

Complete the application and submit documentation. Provide proof of insurance.

Tennessee

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

Complete the application form, submit documentation, and provide proof of insurance.

Texas

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation does not administer roofing contractor licensure. Anyone can perform roofing work in Texas without a state license.

To enhance consumer protection, the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT) offers a voluntary certification program. This program raises roofing contractors’ knowledge and professionalism through 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.

Complete the experience requirements, which include two years of paid construction work. Fill out the application form and submit documentation and the fee. Pass the examination. Provide proof of insurance.

Vermont

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

Complete the online application form, submit documentation, and provide proof of insurance.

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. Fill out the application form and submit documentation and fees. Documentation includes proof of financial responsibility, required work experience, and proof of employment in the roofing specialty.

Pass the examination to complete the process.

Contractor licenses in Virginia are issued under Class A, Class B, and Class C, each with different requirements for financial responsibility and the value of jobs you can perform. Double-check your license class to understand the full requirements.

Washington

To work as a roofer in Washington, register as a general contractor or specialty contractor with the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.

A general contractor can perform most construction work, while a specialty contractor can provide services only within a specific classification, such as roofing.

Along with your application for contractor registration, provide proof of a surety bond ($30,000 for general contractors, $15,000 for specialty) and general liability insurance of $250,000.

West Virginia

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

Before submitting your application, contact the West Virginia CLB to confirm the work you intend to do and verify the classification and examination requirements. Pass the PSI exam.

Provide a business registration tax number, proof of workers’ compensation insurance, unemployment compensation, and general liability insurance. Then submit your application through the West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board.

Wisconsin

To become a roofer in Wisconsin and work on one- to two-family homes, get your Dwelling Contractor License from the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.

Complete the application form, submit documentation and the fee, and provide proof of financial responsibility with a $25,000 bond or $250,000 of general liability insurance.

Wyoming

Wyoming does not require roofing contractors to have a state license. However, check for any local licensing requirements before starting your project.

Look into local laws and regulations for roofing projects to ensure you’re fully compliant.