District of Columbia Contractor License Requirements
verifiedState-Level License RequiredDC requires a basic business license with a construction endorsement. Specialty trades require separate licenses. The District has higher insurance minimums than most states.
account_balanceLicensing Board
badge
Board Name
DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection
language
Website
https://dlcp.dc.gov/phone
Phone
(202) 442-4400
descriptionLicense Types
| Type | Threshold | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | All work | Basic business license with construction endorsement required |
| Electrical | All work | Master electrician or journeyman license required |
| Plumbing | All work | Master plumber or journeyman license required |
| HVAC | All work | HVAC license required through DCRA |
checklistRequirements
- check_circleBasic business license
- check_circleConstruction endorsement
- check_circleProof of insurance
- check_circleClean Hands certification
- check_circleSurety bond
paymentsFee Schedule
Application
$325
Annual Renewal
$325
Exam Fee
$100
event_repeatRenewal Period
Biennial — license issue date
shieldInsurance Minimums
General Liability
$500,000
Workers Compensation
Required
swap_horizReciprocity
- arrow_forwardNo reciprocity agreements
infoData sourced from state licensing board websites. Requirements change frequently — verify with your state board before applying. Last updated April 2026.