Utah offers two pre-license contractor courses: a 25-hour course for subcontractors and a 30-hour course for general contractors. Choosing the correct course matters, as your Completion Certificate must align with your license classification upon applying with DOPL. This guide breaks down the differences so you can confidently register for the class that fits your goals.
—
Why choosing the right pre-license course matters
The pre-license course is a required step before applying for a Utah contractor license. While both courses meet state education requirements, they serve different scopes of work. If the course you complete doesn’t match your license path, you may be asked to retake training or submit additional documentation, costing both time and momentum.
Selecting the right course from the start keeps your licensing process on track.
—
What is the 25-hour Utah pre-license course?
The 25-hour pre-license course is designed for subcontractors and specialty contractors who perform a specific trade rather than overseeing entire construction projects.
This course typically applies to contractors working under S-series classifications (such as carpentry, drywall, roofing, HVAC, landscaping, and other specialty trades). The curriculum focuses on trade-specific compliance, Utah construction law, and business fundamentals relevant to subcontracting work.
If you operate within a defined trade scope and do not manage full projects, this is usually the correct course.
—
What is the 30-hour Utah pre-license course?
The 30-hour pre-license course is required for general contractors and others overseeing full construction projects.
This course applies to license classifications such as B100, R100, E100, and similar categories where the contractor is responsible for project coordination, administration, contracts, and overall business risk. In addition to the core legal and compliance topics discussed in the 25-hour course, the 30-hour course includes expanded instruction on project oversight and contractor responsibilities.
—
Key differences between the 25-hour and 30-hour courses
The main differences between the two courses come down to scope and responsibility:
- Who it’s for: 25-hour courses are for specialty subcontractors; 30-hour courses are for general contractors.
- Scope of work: Subcontractors focus on a specific trade, while general contractors oversee entire projects.
- Business responsibility: General contractors carry broader administrative, contractual, and risk obligations.
- Course length: The depth of instruction reflects the level of responsibility tied to each license type.
Both courses satisfy Utah’s pre-license education requirement, but only when matched to the correct license path.
—
Which course should you take based on your license type?
In most cases, the decision is straightforward:
- Take the 30-hour course if you are applying as a general contractor, residential contractor, or overseeing full construction projects.
- Take the 25-hour course if you are applying as a subcontractor or specialty contractor performing a specific trade.
If your situation falls into a gray area, such as residential vs. small commercial work, it’s best to confirm with our team before registering.
—
Still unsure which course applies to you?
Some contractors operate in multiple capacities or are transitioning between roles. If you’re uncertain which course aligns with your license classification, getting guidance before enrolling can prevent delays.
Contact our team for help choosing the correct option.
Additional resources:
- Read more: Do I need a pre-license course to get a Utah contractor license?
- Read more: Utah contractor pre-license course requirements explained
—
Ready to register?
Once you’ve identified the right course for you, get registered on our Pre-License Courses page or reach out to our team with further questions.
