Roofing License: How to Become a Certified Roofing Contractor in the U.S. (State-by-State)

Do I need a roofing contractor license?

Yes, most states require a license to perform roofing work. While some states don’t require a license, many states do have licensing requirements in place. Plus, with a license, you can take on bigger projects and commercial contracts that often require licensed contractors in most states. 

This license requirement ensures that the people doing roofing jobs have the right skills and knowledge. Having a roofing license can bring some benefits, like being seen as more trustworthy and reliable by potential clients. It shows that you know your stuff and can deliver quality work. 

However, some states, such as Texas, do not require a license for roofing contractors. Other states, such as Colorado, don’t require a state-level license for roofing contractors, but that doesn’t mean there are no local-level requirements. Make sure you check with your local governments to find out if they have specific requirements.

Jump to our state-specific roofing license requirements to learn more.

What can I do without a roofing license?

Without a roofing contractor license, you won’t be able to do much. 

In some areas, you might be able to perform minor repair work or maintenance without a license. However, major projects like roof installations or replacements typically require a licensed contractor. 

In many cases, the need for a license is determined by the value of the job. Some jurisdictions require a license for contracting jobs as low as $200 in value, including cost and labour.

Working without a roofing contractor’s license can lead to severe legal consequences. Unlicensed contractors may face fines, legal action, and damaged reputations, lack necessary roofing insurance coverage, and be ineligible for compensation in disputes.

READ MORE: How to become a roofer in 5 steps

How long does it take to get a roofing license?

Getting your license to be a roofing contractor differs by state, but on average, it can take anywhere from three months to a couple of years. 

This timeline depends on things like the amount of work experience required, exams, and application processing. Check with your state’s licensing board for the most accurate information.

How much does a roofing license cost?

The cost of getting your license can vary widely depending on the state. On average, state licensing for roofing contractors can range between $150 to $500. 

However, additional costs may be incurred for exams, application processing, and other requirements.

Does a roofing license increase your earning potential?

Yes, getting a license can boost your earning potential because you can take on larger, more complex projects. As a licensed professional, clients will view you as more credible, experienced, and capable, which can lead to higher-paying opportunities.

The average annual wage for roofing contractors in the United States is $50,558. As a licensed contractor, you may have the opportunity to establish your own business, further increasing your earning potential.

To better understand the earning potential in the roofing industry, check out Jobber’s Essential Roofer Salary Guide. You can get the lowdown on how to make smart choices when it comes to what to pay your employees or plan your next career move in the roofing industry. 

How to get a roofing license: state-by-state

Getting a roofing license in the U.S. involves a few important steps: 

• Experience: First, you’ll need to gain some hands-on experience in roofing to build your skills. 
• Pass the exam: Make sure you understand the specific licensing requirements set by your city or state. These requirements often include passing a licensing exam that covers things like building permits, codes, and different classifications. 
• Meet local requirements: You might also need to undergo a background and credit check and meet certain age or education criteria. 
• Get insured: It’s also important to have the right insurance, like liability coverage and worker’s compensation, and to be bonded as well. Having the right insurance protects you from accidents, property damage, and laws, while also making you more trustworthy for clients.
• Continuing education: Once licensed, you’ll likely need to continue your education to keep your license renewed.

Each state has different roofing contractor requirements, so make sure you are familiar with your state by checking our full list of state links and information below:

Jump to your state:

Alabama

To become a roofing contractor and work on projects worth more than $2,500, register with the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors.

To become a licensed roofing contractor, you must complete the application form, submit the required documentation and fees, secure a $10,000 license/permit bond, and obtain general liability insurance to protect your business and clients. There are no education requirements or exams to pass.

However, you also need a Designated Qualifying Representative (DQR) that meets all licensing requirements to validate your experience and ability to perform roofing work. This is submitted as part of the application package.

Ready to start? Get the complete steps to becoming a roofer in Alabama.

Alaska

To become a roofing contractor in Alaska, register with the Division of Corporation, Business, and Professional licensing through the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development. The DCCED makes the final decisions regarding construction contractor licensing and enforces penalties for any violations.

To get your license:

• Provide proof of a bond—$25,000 for general contractor and $10,000 for specialty contractor.
• Complete the application form as either a general contractor with a residential endorsement or as a specialty roofing contractor 
• Submit the required documentation and fees
• Pass the examination 
• Provide proof of general liability insurance (and workers compensation if you have employees) 

Arizona

To start working as a roofing contractor in Arizona, register with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. License classes in the state that are eligible to provide roofing services are general commercial or residential contractors and specialty commercial or residential roofing contractors.

To become a licensed roofing contractor, first, complete any education or experience requirements set by your jurisdiction. Next, fill out the application form and submit the required documentation and fees. Afterward, take and pass the Statute and Rules and Trade examinations. 

Finally, provide proof of insurance and a bond based on the amount of work you expect to perform (i.e. General residential contractors need a bond of $15,000 if they expect to perform work with a total value of more than $750,000) to ensure you meet all necessary requirements for obtaining a roofing contractor license.

Arkansas

To get your Residential Roofer Contractor License in Arkansas, register with the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board and the Residential Committee (as of January 2022).

To get your license, complete the residential roofer application, submit the required documentation and fees as specified by your jurisdiction, and take and pass the necessary examinations. 

Finally, provide proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance and secure a $15,000 surety bond to meet all licensing requirements.

California

To get your contractor’s license in California, register with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) through the Department of Consumer Affairs. To become a licensed roofing contractor, first fulfill any education or experience requirements mandated by your jurisdiction. 

Next, complete the application form for the C-39 roofing contractor license and submit the necessary documentation and fees. Afterward, take and pass the Business and Law and trade licensing examinations. Finally, provide proof of worker’s compensation insurance and a $25,000 contractor’s bond to comply with all licensing requirements.

Ready to start? Learn the complete steps, costs, and requirements to earning your California Roofing License.

Colorado

In Colorado, there is no state-level license; instead, roofing is regulated by the cities and counties. In Denver, you must register with both the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) and the City of Denver. 

Continuing with Denver as an example, you must first have your supervisor certificate before applying for a contractor license. To get your supervisor certificate, you need to fill out an application and provide proof of your experience.

Once you get your supervisor certificate, you can apply to become a licensed roofing contractor. Begin by fulfilling any education or experience requirements set by your jurisdiction. Next, complete the application form and submit the necessary documentation and fees. Finally, provide proof of insurance to comply with all licensing requirements.

Connecticut

To become a roofer in Connecticut, you must get your Home Improvement Contractor license through the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.

First, complete the license application and submit the required documentation. You must also pay the registration fee and provide proof of general liability insurance with coverage no less than $20,000. 

The Home Improvement Contractor license does not allow you to build new homes, complete a portion of a new build, or work on commercial projects.

Delaware

To start working as a roofing contractor or operate a roofing business with employees in Delaware, register with the Delaware Division of Revenue and the Delaware Department of Labor’s, Office of Contractor Registration. 

To become a licensed roofing contractor, complete the registration process for a construction contractor and submit the necessary documentation. 

Delaware doesn’t have a state-wide license for roofing or general construction contractors, however, some jurisdictions have unique rules and requirements. Be sure to check with your local municipality to ensure you’re eligible to perform roofing work.

Florida

To start working as a roofing contractor in Florida, register with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) through the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB).

To become a licensed contractor, start by completing the application form and submitting the necessary documentation and proof of experience along with the required fee. Then, take and pass the Business and Finance and General Trade Knowledge licensing examinations. Finally, provide proof of financial responsibility as well as public liability, property damage, and workers’ compensation insurance to meet all licensing requirements.

Ready to start? Get our full guide to applying for your roofing license in Florida.

Georgia

To get your chosen license in Georgia, register with the Georgia Secretary of State – Professional Licensing Boards Division.

To get started, Complete the application form:

• Residential Basic Contractor License
• Residential Light Contractor License 
• Residential Basic Individual License
• Residential Light Individual License

Then, submit the required documentation and pay the fee. Write and pass the examination and provide proof of insurance.

Hawaii

To get your contractor’s license in Hawaii and start performing roofing work, register with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs through the Professional & Vocational Licensing Division and the Contractors Licensing Board.

To become a licensed contractor, you need to complete the application form and submit the required documentation along with the necessary fees. Next, take and pass the licensing examination. Lastly, provide proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance to comply with all licensing requirements.

Idaho

Contractors are not required to be licensed in Idaho. However, you can register with the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses to perform roofing work with a value over $2,000, including materials and labor.

To become a registered roofing contractor, you need to submit an application with the necessary supporting documentation and fees. This includes proof of worker’s compensation insurance or a statement explaining why it’s not required, and proof of general liability insurance. The application must also include a statement of the type of construction to be done—in this case, roofing.

Illinois

To get your contractor’s license in Illinois, register with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

To become a roofing contractor (limited or unlimited), begin by completing the application form and submitting the necessary documentation along with the required fee. Next, designate a qualifying party (individual applicant or representative of a business) to take and successfully complete the licensing examination. Finally, provide proof of liability insurance and secure the necessary bond—$10,000 for limited and $25,000 for unlimited license—to comply with all licensing requirements.

Get the complete step-by-step process in our Guide to Roofing Licenses in Illinois.

Indiana

Indiana does not mandate licensing or registration for roofers. However, your local city or municipality may have specific requirements for obtaining a license or registration.

Start by registering with the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency and choose your desired city or county. Additionally, consider joining the optional Indiana Roofing Contractors Association to enhance your professional network and credibility.

Iowa

The state of Iowa does not have a roofer-specific license, but it does require roofers who make more than $2,000 to register with the Iowa Workforce Development – Division of Labor Services. 

You may also become certified with the Iowa Roofing Contractors Association to further enhance your professional credentials.

Kansas

To get your roofing contractor’s certificate in Kansas, register with the Kansas Attorney General’s Office through the License & Inspection Division. 

The Kansas Roofing Registration Act, signed in 2013, requires all roofing contractors performing residential or commercial work to obtain a registration certificate from the Kansas AG before they can provide their services.

To begin the process, complete the application form and submit the required documentation. You will also need to provide proof of liability insurance of at least $500,000, workers’ compensation insurance or exemption, and a tax clearance certificate or letter from the Kansas Department of Revenue to meet all necessary requirements.

Kentucky

In Kentucky, there is no licensing requirement for roofing contractors, nor is there a government agency responsible for overseeing business practices among these professionals.

While there is no licensing authority, The Kentucky Roofing Contractors Association offers a certified contractor membership, which comes with the experience requirement of having worked in the state as a contractor for at least a year, proof of insurance, and a $10,000 bond, and commitment to 10 annual hours of continuing education.

READ MORE: Learn how to start a roofing company in Kentucky

Louisiana

The Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors offers a Residential Contractor License and Commercial Contractor License for those looking to become licensed roofing contractors.

First, complete the online application and submit the required documentation and fees. Next, pass the Business, Law, and Trade examinations. Finally, provide proof of insurance and a $10,000 net worth to meet all necessary requirements.

Maine

The state of Maine does not offer roofer’s licenses and does not require roofers to be registered. However, your specific municipality may require you to be registered. 

To get started, check your local municipality to see if you need to register for either the trade license or business license.

Maryland

To become a roofer, you must get your Home Improvement Contractor License in Maryland, registering with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission. 

Begin by completing the application form and submitting the required documentation and fees. You’ll also have to pass the examination. 

In order to apply, you must have at least 2 years experience working in construction, home improvement, or have related education. 

Lastly, provide proof of financial solvency through a credit report and net worth, as well as $50,000 in liability insurance.

Massachusetts

To perform roofing work, you must get your Construction Supervisor License in Massachusetts, registering with the Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure. You can either apply for an unrestricted, one- or two-family dwelling, or specialty roofing license. 

Start by completing the application form—then submit the required documentation and proof of 3 years of prior work experience. Proceed to pass the examination and mail your results to the Board of Building Regulations and Standards to meet all essential requirements.

Michigan

To become a roofer and work in Michigan, you must get your Residential Builders License or Maintenance and Alteration Contractor (MAC) License,  through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. 

First, fulfill the necessary education and experience requirements, which include 60 hours of prelicensure training courses. Then, complete the application form and submit the required documentation. Finally, pass the examination to meet all essential criteria.

Minnesota

To become a roofer, you must get your Residential Roofer License in Minnesota, registering with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. 

You can apply online or submit an application to get started. Include all required documentation along with the necessary fee, and provide proof of a $15,000 surety bond, liability insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, and unemployment insurance.

Mississippi

To get your Commercial Contractor License or Residential Contractor License in Mississippi, register with the Mississippi State Board of Contractors. 

First, complete the application form for either a Commercial Contractor License or a Residential Contractor License. Here you can specify if you’re seeking a license for just residential roofing or additional types of work such as remodeling, plumbing or electrical.

Next, submit the required documentation and fee and passing both the Business and Law and applicable trade examinations. Lastly, provide proof of employment, along with general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance (only if you have employees) to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Missouri

The state of Missouri doesn’t require contractors to register for licenses, however, businesses must register with the Missouri Secretary of State. 

Register with the Secretary of State if you are looking to start a roofing business.  

Montana

To get your roofing contractor’s license in Montana, register with the Montana Department of Labor and Industry Employment Standards Division.

Begin by completing the application form for construction contractor registration— then submit the required documentation along with the necessary fee. Finally, provide proof of workers’ compensation insurance (only if you have employees) to meet all essential requirements.

Nebraska

To get your roofing contractor’s license in Nebraska, register with the Nebraska Department of Labor.

Start by registering as a contractor and submitting the required documentation. This includes information about your identity, your business, your employees, and your services. Then, provide proof of workers’ compensation insurance (only if you have employees) to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Nevada

To work as a roofer in Nevada, register with the Nevada State Contractors Board.

In addition to earning your contractor’s license, you can also be certified under the roofing specialty with a C-15 classification. To qualify for a contractor’s license, you need to fill out the application form and submit the required documentation along with the necessary fee.

The application requires proof of previous experience, a background check, a financial statement to determine the value of the license, and proof of insurance to meet all essential requirements.

New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, contractors are not required to have a license. You can work freely in the majority of cities, provided you obtain a permit from the local office you’re working in. 

However, if you’re looking to start a roofing business, register your business with the state of New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration.

New Jersey

To work as a roofer, you must get your Home Improvement Contractor license in New Jersey and register with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.

First, complete the application and submit the required documentation and fees. Then provide proof of $500,000 in commercial liability insurance, to meet all necessary requirements.

New Mexico

To get your roofing contractor’s license in New Mexico, register with the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department.

Begin by completing the application form— then submit the required documentation. Next, pass the examination and provide proof of a $10,000 surety bond to fulfill all necessary requirements.

New York

To become a roofer, you must get your Home Improvement Contractor license in the city of your choosing, as New York licenses are issued by the city instead of state-wide. In New York City, register with the New York Department of Consumer and Worker Protection. 

First, complete the application form. Then, submit the required documentation along with the necessary fee. Lastly, provide proof of insurance to meet all essential requirements.

Follow this checklist provided by the DCWP in order to file a complete application:

• License fee
• License application
• Sales tax ID Number OR Application confirmation number
• Business and home address
• Proof of workers’ compensation insurance 
• Proof of U.S. EPA certification (if necessary)
• Trust fund enrollment OR $20,000 surety bond
• Compliance agreement
• Home improvement exam and fee
• Fingerprints and processing fee

North Carolina

To work as a roofer, you must get your General Contractor License or Residential Contractor License in North Carolina, and register with the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors.

Start by completing the application, followed by submitting the required documentation. Next, pass the examination, and provide proof of insurance to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Contractor licenses in North Carolina are issued under the categories of limited, intermediate, and unlimited, which each come with unique requirements for working capital and surety bonds. Double check the type of license you’re applying for to fully understand the requirements for documentation, fees, exams, and insurance.

North Dakota

To work as a roofing contractor, you must get your Contractor License in North Dakota, and register with the North Dakota Secretary of State – Contractor’s Licensing Board. You are required to get a contractor license once the value of a project exceeds $4,000.

Start by completing the application through an online portal, followed by submitting the required documentation. You’ll also need to provide proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance to fulfill all necessary requirements.

License fees are determined by your contract amounts, which can vary from up to $100,000 per job to more than $500,000 per job.

Ohio

The state of Ohio does not mandate a roofing contractor license. 

However, if your roofing business offers home improvement services in Ohio, you might need to adhere to other licensing regulations at the state or local level. Make sure to review your local licensing laws and refer to the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board.

Oklahoma

To get your roofing contractor’s license in Oklahoma, register with the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board. 

Begin by completing the application form— then submit the required documentation and fees. Next, pass the PSI examination and provide proof of general liability insurance ($500,000 minimum) and workers’ compensation insurance.

Serious about starting? Learn how to become a licensed roofer in Oklahoma.

Oregon

If you want to become a roofer, get your Construction Contractor License or Residential Specialty Contractor License in Oregon, and register with the Oregon Construction Contractors Board. 

Start by completing the pre-licensing training with an approved provider for either construction contractors or residential contractors. Then, proceed with the application for the construction contractors form or the residential contractors form. 

Following that, submit the required documentation and fees and pass the PSI examination for construction contractors and residential specialties. Finally, provide proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance along with a surety bond to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Pennsylvania

To get your roofing contractor’s license in Pennsylvania, register with the Pennsylvania Attorney General – Bureau of Consumer Protection. 

First, complete the registration process along with the submission of the Home Improvement Contractor application. Then, provide the required documentation along with the necessary fee. As part of your application package, you’ll need to provide proof of liability insurance to meet all essential requirements.

Rhode Island

To become a roofer, you need to register as a contractor with the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation. 

Begin by completing the pre-registration courses. Then, proceed with the application process, which includes proof of your pre-registration courses, a certificate of liability insurance ($500,000) workers’ compensation insurance, and your registration fee.

South Carolina

To become a roofer in South Carolina, get either the Residential Builder License or General Contractor License from the South Carolina Contractor’s Licensing Board. 

To start, complete the application form for either the residential builders or general contractors along with the required documentation and fees. Documentation includes financial statements, proof of surety bonds and insurance, prior work experience, and primary qualifying person (PQP) information.

Following that, pass the PSI examination to meet all essential requirements.

South Dakota

In South Dakota, there are no roofing contractor licenses. However, all types of contractors engaged in construction need to register for a South Dakota Contractor’s Tax License with the Department of Revenue. 

First, complete the application process and submit the required documentation. Then, provide proof of insurance to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Tennessee

To become a roofing contractor in Tennessee, get your Home Improvement Contractor License from the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors.

Begin by completing the application form. Then, submit the required documentation. Finally, provide proof of insurance to meet all essential requirements.

Texas

Currently, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation does not administer licensure for roofing contractors. This means that anyone can claim to be a roofer in Texas without being required to have the knowledge, insurance, licensing, or state registration.

To enhance consumer protection and boost public confidence in the roofing industry, the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT) was established. This program aims to raise the roofing contractor’s knowledge and professionalism through voluntary self-regulation.

Learn more about applying for the RCAT Texas Roofing License.

Utah

To get your roofing contractor’s license in Utah, register with the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.

Begin by completing the experience requirements, which includes 2 years of paid work in construction. Next, fill out the application form and submit the required documentation along with the fee. Afterward, pass the examination. Finally, provide proof of insurance to meet all essential requirements.

Vermont

To become a roofer in Vermont, acquire a Residential Contractor license from the State of Vermont Office. 

Start by completing the online application form. Then, submit the required documentation. Lastly, provide proof of insurance to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Virginia

To get your roofing contractor’s license in Virginia, register with the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. 

To get started, complete the pre-licensing education. Next, fill out the application form and submit the required documentation along with the fees. The documentation includes proof of financial responsibility, required work experience, and proof of employment in the specialty you’re applying for—in this case, roofing.

Finally, pass the examination to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Contractor licenses in Virginia are issued under Class A, Class B, and Class C—each comes with unique requirements for financial responsibility and the value of jobs you can perform. Double check the class of license you’re applying for to fully understand the requirements.

Washington

To work as a roofer in Washington, you must register as a general contractor or specialty contractor with the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.

A general contractor can perform most construction work in Washington while a specialty contractor can only provide services under a specific classification—in this case, roofing.

Along with your application for contractor registration, you must also provide proof of a surety bond ($30,000 for general contractors and $15,000 for specialty) and general liability insurance of $250,000.

West Virginia

To get your roofing contractor’s license in West Virginia, register with the West Virginia Division of Labor – Contractor Licensing Board.

Before submitting your application, you must first contact the West Virginia CLB to confirm the work you intend to do in order to verify the classification and examination requirements. Next, you need to pass the PSI exam.

Finally, provide a business registration tax number as well as proof of workers compensation, unemployment compensation, and general liability insurance, and submit your application.

Wisconsin

To become a roofer in Wisconsin and perform work on one- to two-family homes, get your Dwelling Contractor License from the  Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.

Begin by completing the application form. Then, submit the required documentation along with the fee. Lastly, provide proof of financial responsibility with a $25,000 bond or $250,000 of general liability insurance to fulfill all necessary requirements.

Wyoming

In Wyoming, roofing contractors are not required to have a state license to work. However, be sure to check for any local licensing requirements before starting your project.

Begin by looking into local laws and regulations specifically for roofing projects to ensure full compliance.