Yes. Nearly all Utah contractors must complete a state-approved pre-license course before applying for a contractor license through DOPL. This requirement applies to general contractors, residential contractors, and most subcontractor classifications. Utah offers two versions of the course—a 30-hour general contractor course and a 25-hour subcontractor course—both taught by approved providers such as the Associated General Contractors of Utah (AGC).
If you’re preparing to apply for a license, here’s exactly what you need to know, along with the next steps to get started.
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Is the Utah pre-license course required?
Yes. Utah law requires contractor license applicants to complete a state-approved pre-license course before submitting an application to the Division of Occupational & Professional Licensing (DOPL).
A few key points to understand:
- The course is required before you apply for your license.
- It applies to nearly all license classifications in Utah.
- The curriculum must be completed through a DOPL-approved provider such as AGC.
- Your Completion Certificate becomes part of your license application.
There are very few exemptions, and they rarely apply to new contractors.
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Who has to take the pre-license course?
Here’s how the requirement applies across Utah’s contractor classifications:
General Contractors
- Must complete the 30-hour pre-license course
- Applies to B100, E100, R100, and similar classifications
- Covers business management, construction law, liability, contracts, compliance, and job-site rules
Subcontractors / Specialty Contractors
- Must complete the 25-hour pre-license course
- Applies to most specialty classifications (S220, S270, S280, S330, etc.
- Emphasizes trade-specific compliance, law, and business requirements
Residential & Small Commercial
- R100 and R101 contractors still need the pre-license course
- The hour requirement depends on whether you operate as a general or specialty contractor
Edge Cases / Rare Exceptions
DOPL occasionally lists niche scenarios where the requirement may differ, but they are uncommon. If you are unsure, contact our team.
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25-hour vs 30-hour: Which do you need?
This is one of the most common questions new contractors ask.
Take the 30-hour course if you are:
- A general contractor
- Overseeing whole projects
- Working under B100, E100, or R100 classifications (among others)
Take the 25-hour course if you are:
- A subcontractor or specialty contractor
- Performing a specific trade (carpentry, drywall, HVAC, roofing, landscaping, etc.)
Both versions meet Utah’s pre-license requirements, but they are tailored to different scopes of work. If you’re not sure which one applies to your license, we can help you choose the right course. Just reach out.
Read more: 25-hour vs. 30-hour pre-license courses: Which do you need?
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What does the Utah pre-license course cover?
Both versions of the course include essential training designed to prepare you for owning or operating a contracting business legally in Utah.
Topics typically include:
- Licensing requirements and state regulations
- Business management and recordkeeping
- Construction law and liability
- Jobsite safety and best practices
- Contracts, bids, and payment rules
- Risk management and insurance
- Utah-specific compliance rules
General contractors receive additional instruction related to project oversight, business risk, and administrative responsibilities.
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Who teaches the Utah pre-license course?
In Utah, pre-license courses must be taught by state-approved providers. The Associated General Contractors of Utah (AGC) is one of the state’s leading approved providers and delivers both the 25-hour and 30-hour courses. Contractors School facilitates the registration process and provides support, guidance, reminders, and licensing help so you know exactly what to do after completing your training.
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What happens after you finish the course?
The course is designed to be the first major step in the licensing process. Once you complete the class, you can:
- Receive a Completion Certificate from AGC
- Use this certificate when submitting your contractor license application to DOPL
- Prepare for Utah’s Business & Law exam, which most contractors must pass (contact us to see if this applies to you)
- Move forward with forming your business entity, obtaining insurance, and finalizing paperwork
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How to register
Most contractors can register for a course in just a few minutes. You’ll select:
- The correct course (25-hour or 30-hour)
- Your preferred date (classes offered in Salt Lake City and St. George)
Questions about which class is right for you? Contact us.
Read more: How to register for a Utah pre-license course (step-by-step)
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Ready to take your Utah pre-license course?
Join over twenty-thousand people who have trusted us to guide them through licensing and business setup. To get started, choose the course that fits your license path:
➡ 30-Hour General Contractor Pre-License Course
For general, residential, and small commercial contractors.
➡ 25-Hour Subcontractor Pre-License Course
For specialty contractors across all S-series classifications.
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Sign up for a pre-license course or contact us with questions.
