At a Glance: Arizona Contractor License
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Licensing Board | Arizona Registrar of Contractors (AZROC) |
| License Types |
|
| License Threshold | $1,000 or more in labor and materials |
| Application Fee | $270–$600 |
| Exam Required | ✅ Yes |
| Exam Provider | Prometric |
| Exam Cost | $65–$135 per exam |
| Experience Required | 4 years experience in the classification |
| Insurance Required | General Liability ($500,000+); Workers' Comp required if employees |
| License Renewal | Biennial (every 2 years); $200–$450 |
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Arizona Contractor License
- Choose your license classification (B, B-1, or specialty C class)
- Document 4 years of experience in trade
- Pass the AZROC qualifying exam via Prometric
- Obtain liability insurance and workers' comp
- Apply online at roc.az.gov
- Pay fees; AZROC reviews and issues license (4–6 weeks)
Exam Requirements
Provider: Prometric
Cost: $65–$135 per exam
Topics covered: Arizona Statutes & Rules, Business Management, Trade Knowledge
Most state contractor exams test two main areas: Business & Law (contracts, lien law, workers' comp, licensing regulations) and Trade Knowledge (construction practices, building codes, safety). Prepare for both sections — even experienced contractors struggle with the Business & Law portion without dedicated study.
Study Resources
- PSI Candidate Handbook (available on PSI website — free, covers exactly what's on the exam)
- ICC Study Guides for code-based exams
- Contractor's Business & Law Study Guide by Craftsman Book Company
- Online prep courses from Contractor Exam Prep and similar providers
Insurance & Bonding Requirements
General Liability ($500,000+); Workers' Comp required if employees
Beyond what Arizona requires, consider these coverage types for complete protection:
- General Liability: Protects against third-party bodily injury and property damage claims
- Workers' Compensation: Required if you have employees; protects against job-site injury claims
- Commercial Auto: Your personal auto policy won't cover your work truck
- Inland Marine (Tools & Equipment): Covers tool theft from job site or vehicle
Reciprocity
Arizona has the following reciprocity agreements with other states:
No active reciprocity agreements.
Important: Reciprocity agreements change over time. Always contact the Arizona licensing board directly to confirm current reciprocity status before assuming your out-of-state license qualifies for expedited licensure.
Important Notes for Arizona
Arizona has 200+ license classifications. The qualifying party must pass the exam and be named on the license. AZROC actively enforces unlicensed contractor laws.
Official Resources
- Arizona Registrar of Contractors (AZROC) — Official Website
- PSI Exams — Schedule Your Contractor Exam
- Contractor Insurance Guide
- Contractor Bonding Guide
- How to Start a Construction Business
Always verify requirements directly with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (AZROC). Requirements, fees, and exam procedures change frequently — this guide is updated periodically but may not reflect the most recent changes.