At a Glance: Colorado Contractor License
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Licensing Board | Colorado Division of Professions and Occupations (plus local jurisdictions) |
| License Types |
|
| License Threshold | No state general contractor license required; local permits needed |
| Application Fee | Varies by trade and jurisdiction; $50–$300 |
| Exam Required | ✅ Yes |
| Exam Provider | PSI / ICC depending on trade |
| Exam Cost | $85–$165 |
| Experience Required | Varies by trade; typically 2–4 years |
| Insurance Required | General Liability and Workers' Comp recommended; required by some jurisdictions |
| License Renewal | Annual; varies by trade |
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Colorado Contractor License
- Determine if your trade requires state licensure (electrical/plumbing do)
- For general contracting, register with local jurisdiction
- Pass trade exam via PSI or ICC
- Obtain business license from your city/county
- Carry required insurance for your jurisdiction
Exam Requirements
Provider: PSI / ICC depending on trade
Cost: $85–$165
Topics covered: Trade-specific knowledge, Colorado building codes
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 and Workers' Comp recommended; required by some jurisdictions
Beyond what Colorado 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
Colorado has the following reciprocity agreements with other states:
- Some trades recognize NCCER certifications
Important: Reciprocity agreements change over time. Always contact the Colorado licensing board directly to confirm current reciprocity status before assuming your out-of-state license qualifies for expedited licensure.
Important Notes for Colorado
Colorado does NOT require a state general contractor license. Requirements vary significantly by municipality (Denver, Boulder, etc. have their own requirements). Electricians and plumbers need state licenses.
Official Resources
- Colorado Division of Professions and Occupations (plus local jurisdictions) — 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 Colorado Division of Professions and Occupations (plus local jurisdictions). Requirements, fees, and exam procedures change frequently — this guide is updated periodically but may not reflect the most recent changes.