Rhode Island Contractor License

Thinking of starting your contractor business in Rhode Island? The good news is we gathered all the needed information to save your time and energy on researching the requirements of becoming a contractor in Rhode Island. In this article, we covered topics such as: how to obtain a contractor’s license, state and local requirements, duration and expenses of getting licensed in Rhode Island, and more.

How do I get a contractor’s license in RI?

If your business is in commercial construction, home construction, alterations, remodeling, or repairmen you must be registered with the State of Rhode Island Contractors’ Registration and Licensing Board If you’re out-of-state or you have never been registered in Rhode Island, you need to pass 5-hours pre-registration courses prior to your application. To submit your application you will need to:

• Complete the registration form
• Sign the contractor’s statement form
• Indicate at least 500,000 liability insurance coverage
• Show the business certificate if your company is LLC or a corporation
• Pay $200 the registration fee

The state of Rhode Island issues only one type of state-level license: Underground utility contractor’s license, allowing contractors to perform installation, repair, alteration, replacement of underground utilities such as sewer lines, water lines, or storm drainage lines.

To perform underground utility works in Rhode Island, you must get licensed. The following paperwork must be submitted in order to get your utility contractor’s license:

• Filled out pre-license application form
• Completed and notarized application form
• Signed and notarized affidavit
• Show proof of your business registration with the Rhode Island Secretary of State
• Provide proof of having a 20,000 surety bond for 2 years in the name of RI Contractors’ Registration and Licensing Board
• Assign a registered agent (if you are an out-of-state contractor)
• Submit Limited Liability Insurance certificate indicating 1,000,000 coverage
• Pay 200$ license fee plus $10 fee for photo ID

As soon as you conduct the following steps and obtain necessary documents, mail all materials to:

The Department of Administration
Contractors’ Registration and Licensing Board
One Capitol Hill
Providence, RI 02908

How long does it take to get a contractor’s license in RI?

Before applying for an RI utility contractor’s license you must pass 5-hours of pre-registration courses. After you complete pre-registration courses you will receive a designated license number to obtain a bond for 2 years. The application for a utility contractor’s license will take up to 10 business days to proceed.

Do contractors have to be licensed in RI?

Whether you’re a contractor, remodeler, or subcontractor working on buildings, repairing or demolishing residential or commercial structures you must register with CRLB. Although registration is mandatory for every contractor working in Rhode Island, only utility contractors can obtain a license at the state level. Additionally, licensure is required for RI residents who select among the following occupations:

• Underground utility contractor
• Home inspector
• Associate home inspector
• Well-drilling contractor
• Pump-installer
• Water-filtration/treatment-system contractor
• Water-filtration/ treatment-system installer

How much is a contractor’s license in RI?

To get an underground utility contractor’s license in Rhode Island, you need to pay a $200 registration fee that will be valid for two years. Additionally, you must also pay a $50 pre-licensing fee plus $10 for photo ID. To be a registered contractor, you should pay a $200 registration fee (valid for 2 years) and $20 for any additional registration card. If your previous or existing registration has been expired you need to pay an additional $35 late fee.