How to Get an Idaho Contractor’s License

Thinking about becoming a licensed general contractor or handyman in Idaho but not sure where to start? You’re in the right place. This step-by-step guide breaks down everything you need to know to get registered and licensed in the state of Idaho.

Do General Contractors Need a License in Idaho?

No. Most general contractors in Idaho may not necessarily need a license.¹ It’s best to check with your specific location, though.

However, if you’re a general contractor working on a job over $2,000 or more,² you’ll need to register with Idaho’s Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL).³ The Idaho contractor registration process helps protect resident’s health, safety, and welfare by ensuring Idaho contractors meet baseline qualifications and insurance requirements.

Do All Idaho Contractors Need to Register?

Not everyone needs to register.⁴ The state outlines a few key exemptions:

• Specialty contractors already licensed (plumbers, electricians, HVAC installers, engineers) typically are not required to register — unless they do work outside their licensed scope.
• Employees working for a contractor don’t need to register individually.
• Suppliers who don’t install or fabricate the materials are exempt.
• Property owners doing work on land they own can skip the Idaho contractor registration process, provided they don’t sell the property within 12 months.
• Commercial building owners maintaining their buildings with their own crew are also exempt.

Do Specialty Contractors Need a License in Idaho?

Yes. Certain trades require a license,⁵ including:

• Plumbing
• Electrical
• HVAC
• Fire sprinkler installation
• Construction management

Licenses for these professions are issued through the DOPL in Idaho. In some cities or counties, roofing contractors also may need local licenses — so be sure to check with your local authorities if you do roofing work.

Does a Handyman Need a License in Idaho?

No. Like general contractors, handymen may not need a formal license — but if you’re taking on a job that’s over $2,000, registration with the DOPL in Idaho is required.

How Do I Register as a General Contractor or Handyman?

The Idaho contractor registration process is straightforward but requires some documentation.⁶ You’ll need to complete the registration application,⁷ gather required paperwork, and pay a fee.

Here’s what you’ll likely need to submit:

• Your Social Security number (or EIN for a business).
• Your business name and address.
• The name and address of all owners, partners, or shareholders with an interest in the business.
• Proof of general liability insurance (minimum $300,000 single limit) and workers’ compensation coverage.
• A description of the type of construction you’ll be doing.
• A statement disclosing whether you or any owners have had a contractor license or registration revoked or denied in any state — and if so, why.

Once everything is ready, you can submit your application by email or mail:

DOPL

P.O. Box 83720

Boise, ID 83720-0063

Email: [email protected]

Questions? Call the DOPL in Idaho at 208-334-3233 or check out their helpful online FAQ.⁸

Who Approves the Registration Applications?

Applications are typically reviewed and approved by the Idaho contractor license board.⁹ The Idaho contractor’s board consists of five members appointed by the Governor: four contractors and one member of the public. 

Once I’m Registered, What’s Next?

Within 60 days of registration, you’ll need to prominently display your registration number:

• At your business location.
• On jobsites.
• On all contracts, building permits, advertising, letterhead, and purchase orders.

It’s a simple but important step that shows you’re legit.

How Often Do I Have to Renew My Registration?

Your initial registration will be valid for 12 months after your next birthday. After that, you’ll need to renew it annually.

You’ll get a renewal notice about six weeks before your registration expires. Active-duty military members may qualify for a waiver on renewal fees and requirements — check with DOPL to see if you’re eligible.

What If I Don’t Register?

Skipping Idaho contractor registration comes with serious consequences.¹⁰ If you don’t register, you:

• Can’t pull building permits
• Can lose lien rights on real property
• Can’t enforce contracts — you may not be able to sue for unpaid work
• Could face criminal charges — acting as a contractor without registration on jobs that require it is a misdemeanor. Penalties can include fines up to $1,000, up to six months in jail, or both.

Bottom line: It’s not worth the risk.

Can My Registration Be Revoked?

Yes. Idaho law allows the state to revoke the registration of contractors¹¹ who violate the rules or are dishonest.

Here’s what could lead to revocation:

• Violating the rules: This can include failing to meet insurance requirements.
• Consumer protection violations: Making false or misleading statements to clients.
• Dishonesty: Any conduct deemed dishonest or unethical.

These standards help weed out bad actors and keep the industry professional.

Do I Need Business Insurance?

Yes. Before you register as a general contractor or handyman in Idaho, you’ll need to get¹² general liability insurance. And if you have employees, you will also need workers’ comp. It’s required by law — and it’s also just smart to have.

Workers’ compensation and general liability insurance can protect your business if something goes wrong. Whether it’s property damage or a jobsite injury, the right insurance helps cover your bases.

Plus, carrying insurance shows customers you’re professional, responsible, and prepared.

Need a policy? We can help. Compare free quotes from top insurers who specialize in contractor coverage.

Ready to Get to Work?

Licenses, registrations, and insurance are key steps to setting up your contractor business. But being licensed and insured is often just the start, and we want you to know that we’ll be with you every step of the way. When you visit our online Resource Center, you’ll find all types of useful articles, tools, and tips.

Here are just a few that provide helpful information for Idaho contractors:

• General Contractor Insurance: Everything You Need To Know
• FREE Contractor Invoice Template
• How to Get an Idaho Business License

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

References:

1. https://dopl.idaho.gov/con/con-faq/ ↩︎
2. https://dopl.idaho.gov/con/con-faq/ ↩︎
3. https://dopl.idaho.gov/con/con-faq/ ↩︎
4. https://dopl.idaho.gov/con/con-faq/ ↩︎
5. https://dopl.idaho.gov/con/con-faq/ ↩︎
6. https://dopl.idaho.gov/con/con-faq/ ↩︎
7. https://dopl.idaho.gov/con/con-faq/ ↩︎
8. https://dopl.idaho.gov/con/con-faq/ ↩︎
9. https://dopl.idaho.gov/con/con-faq/ ↩︎
10. https://dopl.idaho.gov/con/con-faq/ ↩︎
11. https://dopl.idaho.gov/con/con-faq/ ↩︎
12. https://dopl.idaho.gov/con/con-faq/ ↩︎