Utah Contractor Licensing FAQs

Get clear answers to the most common questions about contractor licensing in Utah—getting started, application & exam processes, costs & legal requirements, or working across state lines.

Getting Started With Your License

What are the first steps to getting a Utah contractor license?

How do I know which Utah contractor license I need?

What experience is required to get a contractor license in Utah?

Does my construction experience qualify for a general contractor license?

How do I upgrade from a subcontractor to a general contractor license in Utah?

Start by choosing the right license type and enrolling in the required pre-licensure course. From there, documentation and timing can vary based on your goals and experience. To avoid delays and costly mistakes, we recommend working with our licensing specialists who can provide personalized guidance throughout the process.

Contact Us to get started!

Your license should match the type of work you plan to do and have experience in. Utah offers several different license classifications. Our team can assist you in determining the most suitable contractors license based on your experience and goals. Contact us today!

Each Utah trade classification may have different experience requirements, although General Contractor, Electrical, and Plumbing licenses require stricter documentation. Experience can be proven using W-2s, K-1s, or through approved work history.

Contact our team for the experience requirements specific to your pursued license type.

Yes, the state of Utah accepts work experience from any time frame, provided you were working for a licensed contractor. However, your experience in general construction work must be verifiable.

If you earned your subcontractor license before May 9, 2017, you may already meet the necessary exam requirements. However, if your subcontractor license was earned after this date, then you’ll need to take the Business & Law Exam before upgrading. 

Contact our team to begin the licensing upgrade process.

Can someone else be my qualifier for a Utah contractor license?

What can I submit to prove my work experience for a Utah license?

Can I use 1099 income to verify my construction experience?

How long is my 25-hour course certificate valid for Utah licensing?

Yes, you can appoint a qualifier for your contractor's license in Utah, provided that individual has a minimum ownership stake of 20% in the company or is your W-2 employee. Qualifiers must also meet state experience and testing requirements.

We can assist you in understanding—and meeting—what’s needed for your license qualifier. Contact us today!

You can use W-2s, K-1s, or signed verification letters from licensed contractors. If requested, be ready to show two years of verifiable experience in your trade. Contact us for assistance in understanding and preparing the necessary documentation for your licensing application.

This can raise red flags with the state if you weren’t properly licensed. In Utah, operating without a proper license can result in fines of up to $1,000 per day for each day of unlicensed work, as determined by the state. 

Talk with our team about the best way to verify your experience legally and effectively.

There’s no expiration. As long as you can provide a valid copy of the certificate from a state-approved provider, it will remain valid regardless of the timeframe it was earned.

Frequently Asked Questions

Application & Exam Processes

What’s the full process for getting a Utah contractor license?

Do I need to take an exam to get a General Contractor license in Utah?

To obtain your contracting license, you first need to register your business. Next, you must attend a pre-licensing course, which covers essential topics and prepares you for the licensing process. After completing the course, you'll submit an application that meets all requirements outlined by the state. Once your application is approved, the state will issue your contractors license.

Our team can assist you at every stage of this process, providing guidance, resources, and support to ensure a smooth and successful licensing experience. Contact us today.

Yes. All general contractor classifications require recipients to pass the Utah Business & Law Exam. Our team can provide detailed guidance on exam preparation, scheduling, and strategies to maximize your chances of success. Contact us with any additional questions.

Does the 30-hour course include the Utah Business & Law exam?

Can I complete the Utah contractor license process by myself?

The course includes prep material, but the exam must be scheduled and taken separately at a PSI testing center. We’ll walk you through what to expect, contact us today.

Yes, but it is not recommended. While the form can be accessed directly through DOPL, it is common for errors to be made by inexperienced applicants during the process—resulting in licensing delays and/or additional fees.

We are experts in DOPL applications and can ensure it's done correctly the first time. Contact us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Costs, Insurance, & Legal Requirements

How much does it cost to get a contractor license in Utah?

Do I need insurance before applying for a contractor license in Utah?

If I’m not working while waiting for my license, does insurance need to remain active?

What if I can’t afford to pay all fees upfront for my Utah contractor license?

It depends on your license type and experience. Costs include a pre-license course, state fees, insurance, and testing. Contact us for a personalized breakdown.

Yes. Utah requires general liability insurance prior to issuing your license. Our partner company, Integrated Companies, can get you properly insured.

Yes, you are required to maintain an active insurance policy on your company both to receive and maintain your contractors license. Despite potential delays in the licensing process, continuous coverage is mandatory.

We offer payment plans to help spread out the cost. Contact us to find the right setup for your budget.

Can I work while my contractor license is still processing?

Can I legally use someone else’s Utah contractor license?

Why do I need a license for electrical or plumbing inspections in Utah?

No. You must wait for official approval and a license number before working or bidding on jobs. Working without a valid license can result in penalties and legal consequences from the state.

No. You must be licensed under your own business to perform contracting work. The only legal exception is if you are a W-2 employee working under the supervision of the license holder. Independent contractors or subcontractors cannot legally use someone else’s license.

Contact us for assistance with understanding and fulfilling your licensing obligations.

Because they involve life safety systems, Utah requires licensing to ensure that only qualified professionals perform this work. It’s about safety and code compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Working Across State Lines

Is my out-of-state contractor license reciprocated in Utah?

No, Utah does not have full reciprocity agreements where licenses from other states are automatically recognized. If you're considering working in Utah with an out-of-state license, you will need to apply for a Utah contractors license and fulfill the state's specific requirements. Luckily, we do offer Utah licensing for out-of-state contractors.

Contact us to get started.

Is my Utah contractor license valid in other states?

No, you'll need to obtain a separate license to work in another state. Some states may waive exams if you’ve held your Utah license for 3+ years, but most require a new application.

Questions or ready to go?

Call us at (801)467-1900 or fill out this form.

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