At a Glance: Montana Contractor License
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Licensing Board | Montana Department of Labor and Industry |
| License Types |
|
| License Threshold | All contractors must register |
| Application Fee | $75–$250 |
| Exam Required | ❌ No |
| Experience Required | Experience affidavit required |
| Insurance Required | General Liability ($50,000); Workers' Comp if employees |
| License Renewal | Annual; $75–$200 |
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Montana Contractor License
- Register as contractor with MT DLI
- Submit experience affidavit
- Obtain liability insurance
- Pay registration fee
- For electrical/plumbing, pass state trade exam
Insurance & Bonding Requirements
General Liability ($50,000); Workers' Comp if employees
Beyond what Montana 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
Montana has the following reciprocity agreements with other states:
No active reciprocity agreements.
Important: Reciprocity agreements change over time. Always contact the Montana licensing board directly to confirm current reciprocity status before assuming your out-of-state license qualifies for expedited licensure.
Important Notes for Montana
Montana requires all contractors to register but does not require a traditional exam for general contractors. Electrical and plumbing do require state licensure.
Official Resources
- Montana Department of Labor and Industry — 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 Montana Department of Labor and Industry. Requirements, fees, and exam procedures change frequently — this guide is updated periodically but may not reflect the most recent changes.