How To Get a Montana Contractor’s License

Are you considering becoming a licensed general contractor or handyman in Montana but unsure where to start? You’re in the right place. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to get registered and ready to legally work in Montana.

Do I Need a Montana General Contractor’s License?

No. General contractors and handymen in Montana do not need a state of Montana contractor’s license. However, they must register with the Montana Department of Labor and Industry. 

How Do I Get Registered in Montana?

The first step is registering your business with the Montana Secretary of State. You can get started by visiting the Secretary of State’s website¹ or by calling 406-444-3665.

Once that’s complete, you’ll need to register² with the Montana Department of Labor and Industry. There are two registration paths³ to choose from:

1. Independent Contractor: If you work independently and don’t want workers’ compensation coverage, you’ll need to complete an Independent Contractor Exemption Certificate, also known as an ICEC.⁴
2. Construction Contractor: If you have employees or work for a business with employees, you must complete a Construction Contractor Registration (CR)⁵ and carry workers’ compensation insurance.

How Does the Registration Process Work?

To obtain an Independent Contractor Exemption Certificate (ICEC):

• Complete and notarize the application and waiver forms.⁶
• Provide business documentation showing that you operate an established business.
• Pay the $125 non-refundable application fee.

To obtain an Construction Contractor Registration (CR):

• Complete the application form.⁷
• Submit proof of Montana workers’ compensation insurance.
• Include a $70 non-refundable application fee.

Next, mail your registration materials to:

Department of Labor and Industry Registration Section

PO Box 8011

Helena, MT 59604-8011

For questions, contact the Registration Section at 406-444-7734 or email [email protected].

Do I Need Additional Contractor’s Licenses?

If you work as an electrician or plumber, you’ll need a separate Montana state contractor’s license.

• Electricians: Apply online through the Montana State Electrical Board.⁸
• Plumbers: Apply online via the Montana Board of Plumbers.⁹

Do I Need to Take an Exam?

No exam is required to register as an independent contractor or general contractor in Montana. However, if you want an electrician¹⁰ or plumbing license,¹¹ you must pass a trade-specific exam through the appropriate Montana contractor’s license board.¹²

What if My Registration Is Denied?

If your application is denied, you’ll receive a notice via mail within 30 days. And you’ll have up to six months from when your application was first received to submit any missing information. If you miss the deadline, you must reapply and repay the application fee.

What Happens if I Work Without Registration?

Working without proper registration in Montana can result in severe penalties:

• Independent contractors: Fines up to $5,000 per violation for working without an ICEC, working under a suspended or revoked ICEC, or misrepresenting your independent status.
• Construction contractors: Fines up to $500 per violation for working without a CR or under a suspended CR.

How Often Do I Have to Renew My Registration?

Both ICEC and CR registrations must be renewed every two years.

• Renewal notices are mailed about 60 days before expiration.
• Forms will be pre-filled with your existing information — simply correct any errors or initial changes and return them with your renewal fee.

Do I Need Business Insurance?

Yes. If you have employees, workers’ compensation insurance is required as part of the registration process.

Even if you don’t have employees, carrying workers’ comp and general liability insurance can be important. It financially protects your business in the event of accidents, property damage, or injuries on the job, and shows clients that you’re serious and professional.

Need a policy? We can help you compare free quotes from top insurers specializing in contractor coverage.

Ready to Get to Work?

Getting registered in Montana is an important first step toward building a thriving contracting business. But it’s just the beginning. To keep your business growing, check out the Simply Business Resource Center for tools, tips, and templates designed for small business owners like you.

Here are a few resources to help you get started:

• General Contractor Insurance: Everything You Need to Know
• FREE Contractor Invoice Template
• Montana Business Insurance Guide

If you still have questions about how to get a contractor’s license in Montana, we encourage you to speak with local legal and tax professionals who can assist you.

References:

1. https://sosmt.gov/business/ ↩︎
2. https://erd.dli.mt.gov/work-comp-regulations/montana-contractor/construction-contractor-registration ↩︎
3. https://erd.dli.mt.gov/work-comp-regulations/montana-contractor/ ↩︎
4. https://erd.dli.mt.gov/work-comp-regulations/montana-contractor/ ↩︎
5. https://erd.dli.mt.gov/work-comp-regulations/montana-contractor/ ↩︎
6. https://erd.dli.mt.gov/work-comp-regulations/montana-contractor/applications-and-forms ↩︎
7. https://erd.dli.mt.gov/work-comp-regulations/montana-contractor/applications-and-forms ↩︎
8. https://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/electrical/#1?9 ↩︎
9. https://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/plumbers/ ↩︎
10. https://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/electrical/#1?9 ↩︎
11. https://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/plumbers/ ↩︎
12. https://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/ ↩︎