Oklahoma Roofing License: How to Become a Licensed Roofer

Do I need a roofing license in Oklahoma?

Yes. You need to register with the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board (CIB) to work as a roofing contractor in Oklahoma. While the state doesn’t offer “licenses” as a designation, valid registration is required to work. Failure to register is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500.00. 

The Oklahoma Roofing Contractor Registration Act (RCRA) defines roofing contractors as anyone who takes on commercial or residential contracts involving the construction, installation, renovation, or repair of roofing and waterproofing. 

Types of roofing licenses in Oklahoma

The RCRA divides roofing contractors into two types based on the type of project and scope of the roofing work they perform:

Oklahoma roofing license requirements

In order to become a registered residential or commercial roofing contractor in Oklahoma, you need to meet the following requirements outlined by the CIB:

How do I get a roofing license in Oklahoma? (steps)

The CIB outlines all the steps you need to take in order to get your roofing contractor license in Oklahoma.

Here’s what you need to do to become a registered residential roofing contractor: 

1. Complete the roofing contractor registration form and include all applicable fees with the application
2. Provide proof that you have a minimum of $500,000 in general liability insurance coverage
3. Secure the necessary workers’ compensation coverage, self-insurance coverage, or worker’s compensation exemption
4. Register your business name with the Secretary of State and include either a Certificate of your Record of Trade Name, Record of Fictitious Name, or Certificate of Good Standing with the application
5. Provide information on your legal business entity and a list of all partners and managers
6. Complete an affidavit proving your lawful presence in the U.S.

If you want to register as a commercial roofing contractor, you’ll follow the steps above with a couple of alterations and additional requirements: 

1. Minimum general liability insurance coverage must be at least $1,000,000
2. Write and pass the Oklahoma Commercial Roofing Contractor Endorsement exam to get your commercial endorsement

You can submit all applications and documents to the Construction Industries Board at the following address: 

2401 NW 23rd, Suite 2F
Oklahoma City, OK 73107

For more information about the application process for roofing contractor registration, check out the CIB’s roofing industry page.

Oklahoma roofing license exam

In Oklahoma, only commercial roofing contractors need to pass an exam to become registered. The testing vendor PSI administers these exams. There are two exams that you need to pass in order to qualify for registration: 

You can find out more about the registered commercial roofing contractor tests in PSI’s Candidate Information Bulletin.

Does Oklahoma reciprocate roofing licenses?

Reciprocal licenses allow roofers from one state to apply directly for an equivalent license in another state. 

The Oklahoma CIB doesn’t have any formal reciprocity agreements with other states for roofing contractors.

How much does a roofing license in Oklahoma cost?

To become a residential or commercial roofing contractor in Oklahoma, you can expect to pay between $75 and $322, depending on the type of registration you apply for.

It’s important to remember that there are also fees associated with getting the required general liability insurance coverage, so factor that into your cost equation as well. 

Oklahoma roofing license renewal

Residential roofing contractor registration needs to be renewed annually through the Oklahoma CIB using the same form as the initial registration. You also need to pay renewal fees that correspond with your registration type. 

In addition to completing the renewal form, commercial roofing contractors also need to complete at least four hours of continuing education every three years. You are exempt for the first three years after passing the commercial endorsement exam, but must fulfill the continuing education for every following three-year period following. The CIB has a list of approved course providers you can use to meet this renewal requirement. 

How to start a roofing business in Oklahoma

After becoming a registered roofing contractor and building up your professional experience, you’re ready to take the next step toward a more successful, lucrative career: starting your own roofing business. 

In the state of Oklahoma, the Department of Commerce oversees business registration and provides information on what you need to do to get your company started, including: 

• Finding the right business structure
• Selecting your trade name and filing with the Secretary of State
• Securing the necessary sales tax permit
• Establishing your Employer Identification Number with the IRS

The Oklahoma Roofing Contractors Association (ORCA) is also a great hub for information on everything from getting your business registered to learning new tricks of the trade. 

There are also some practical considerations to starting your own roofing business that you need to be aware of—from developing a sales and marketing plan to hiring the right people and finding the right equipment. Check out our guide to learn more about starting your own roofing company. 

Does a roofing license increase your earning potential?

Considering you aren’t able to perform roofing work without a registration in Oklahoma, completing the process definitely increases your earning potential. While the average roofer earns about $35,000 in the state, you stand to earn well over $40,000 as you build up more experience.