Ohio Contractor License Requirements

infoNo State License — Local / County Only

Ohio does not require a state-level general contractor license. Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, and other cities handle general contractor licensing. State-level licensing exists for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC trades through the Construction Industry Licensing Board.

account_balanceLicensing Board

badge

Board Name

No state licensing board — local jurisdictions

phone

Phone

(614) 644-3493

descriptionLicense Types

TypeThresholdNotes
ElectricalAll workLicensed through Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board
PlumbingAll workLicensed through Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board
HVACAll workLicensed through Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board
HydronicsAll workLicensed through Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board

checklistRequirements

  • check_circleLocal permits as required
  • check_circleBusiness registration with Secretary of State

paymentsFee Schedule

Application

Varies by city/county

Annual Renewal

Varies by city/county

Exam Fee

Varies by trade

event_repeatRenewal Period

Varies by jurisdiction

shieldInsurance Minimums

General Liability

Varies by jurisdiction

Workers Compensation

Required

swap_horizReciprocity

  • arrow_forwardNot applicable — local licensing for general contractors

infoData sourced from state licensing board websites. Requirements change frequently — verify with your state board before applying. Last updated April 2026.