Whether you’re looking to get into the roofing business or a homeowner looking to contract a roofer, it is essential to know which roofing licenses are required in your state. Getting the lowdown on registration, licenses, and insurance means you’ll have peace of mind knowing you are not breaking any laws. Each state has its own set of regulations governing roofing licenses, making it essential to navigate the specific criteria in different areas. In 27 of the 50 states, roofing contractors are required to obtain a license, while 13 states mandate registration only.
Below is a map outlining the licensing requirements for roofers in all 50 states, as well as a list providing specific details and qualifications needed for each state.
Breakdown of Roofing Contractor License and Insurance Requirements
Alabama
License required: Yes, for projects valued at more than $2,500.
Insurance required: No
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors License Roster Search
A residential roofer working directly with a homeowner for roof repairs or installations exceeding $2,500 must obtain a residential roofer license. To get a roofing license in Alabama, a $10,000 bond and a business or occupational license issued by a municipality, township, or county in the state is needed. Specific licensing requirements may vary across different regions within a state.
Alaska
License required: Yes
Insurance required: No
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic, Development
Roofing professionals in Alaska need to apply for licensure as a Specialty Contractor through the state's Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development. Specialty contractors in Alaska are permitted to undertake projects involving the use of up to three trades. If the work involves more than three trades, individuals are required to apply as either a General or Residential Contractor.
To secure a residential endorsement, roofers in Alaska need to submit an application, pay the applicable fees, and provide the necessary documentation. This documentation should encompass exam results from an authorized testing provider, evidence of completing the Alaska craftsman home program or an equivalent, or a course in arctic engineering or its equivalent. Additionally, applicants must provide the name and license number of a currently licensed general contractor who will serve as an endorser.
Arizona
License required: Yes
Insurance required: Yes (workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: Arizona Registrar of Contractors
In Arizona, all roofing contractors must go through a licensing process. Before applying for a license, an individual needs to have a minimum of four years of experience working under a licensed contractor, either in a hands-on capacity or in a managerial role. Following this four-year period, the person must successfully complete a skills examination.
After meeting the four-year experience requirement and passing the skills examination, individuals can seek licensure in Arizona by submitting an application, required fees, proof of bonding (up to $7,500), workers' compensation insurance, and other necessary documentation. It's important to note that Arizona does not require roofers to hold liability insurance.
Arkansas
License required: Yes, for projects valued at more than $2,000.
Insurance required: Yes (workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: AR Contractor Licensing Board
In Arkansas, a residential roofer acting as a subcontractor, contracted by a fully licensed contractor to complete projects exceeding $2,000 in value (inclusive of both labor and material costs), is obligated to register with the state. This involves obtaining a registration certificate to comply with regulatory requirements. If a roofer works directly with the property owner (not as a subcontractor) and wants to handle projects valued at more than $2,000, they need either a residential remodeler license or a residential builder's license.
If the roofer does other home improvement projects that require a licensed professional, they also need a residential remodeler license. In Arkansas, residential roofers with at least one employee must obtain workers' compensation insurance coverage.
California
License required: Yes, for projects valued at $500 or more.
Insurance required: Yes (workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: The Contractors State License Board(CSLB)
Roofers in California need to be licensed by the Contractors State License Board if they are undertaking work valued at $500 or more. This roofing license is a distinct category from a general contractor's license and allows individuals or businesses to "install products and repair surfaces that seal waterproof, and weatherproof structures."
In California, individuals applying for a roofing license must have four years of experience performing journey-level work in the trade before they can take the required exams. To secure the license, they need to submit proof of examination, obtain a $25,000 bond, and have workers' compensation insurance.
Colorado
License required: Yes, in each city or county (not statewide).
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
In Colorado, there's no statewide licensing or registration requirement for roofing contractors. However, construction professionals and roofers must be licensed in each city or county where they work. In many Colorado areas, roofing contractors typically need general liability insurance to obtain a license. Workers' compensation is only mandatory if they have employees.
Connecticut
License required: No, but registering is required.
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance)
In Connecticut, those performing home renovation work over $200 for residential property owners must be registered with the Department of Consumer Protection, showing proof of at least $20,000 in general liability insurance. While subcontractors and some trades are exempt, roofing does not require a specific trade license.
Delaware
License required: No, but registering is required.
Insurance required: Yes (workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is registered: Delaware.gov
In Delaware, roofing contractors must secure a Contractor Registration Certificate before commencing work. This involves applying to the Delaware Department of Labor, paying the necessary fees, and submitting a safety plan in accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. Additionally, contractors with employees are required to furnish proof of workers' compensation insurance.
Florida
License required: Yes
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; property damage insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
To become a certified roofing contractor in Florida, individuals need to pass a state certification exam, provide proof of examination, show four years of experience, and submit a credit report for financial stability. Applicants must also have liability, property damage, and workers' compensation insurance. Requirements may vary based on factors such as individual or business status, first-time application or renewal, and certification or registration.
Georgia
License required: No
Insurance required: Yes (workers' compensation insurance)
In Georgia, there are no state-mandated licensure or requirements for roofing contractors. However, the Georgia Roofing Contractors Association (GARCA) has established a voluntary licensing program to enhance industry standards in the state.
To become a GARCA-licensed roofing contractor, individuals or businesses need to adhere to federal, state, and local regulations. Additionally, they must pass a basic roofing skills and business knowledge exam with a score of 80% or higher. The application process requires submission of proof of compliance, along with public liability and property damage insurance for $500,000 per occurrence, workers' compensation insurance, and credit references.
Hawaii
License required: Yes, for projects valued at over $1,000.
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs
In Hawaii, anyone who does roofing work valued at over $1,000 must have a contractor's license. Before applying for licensure as a roofer, individuals must have four years of supervisory experience, pass a roofing skills examination, and be employed by a licensed contractor. To maintain the license, continuous liability and workers' compensation insurance are required.
Idaho
License required: Yes
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: Idaho Bureau of Occupational Licenses Contractors Board
In Idaho, roofers are required to be registered with the state's Contractor's Board. Alongside their registration application, they must submit proof of general liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $300,000 per occurrence, workers' compensation insurance, and other relevant business documents.
Illinois
License required: Yes
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; property damage insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (.gov)
In Illinois, roofers have the option to obtain either a limited license for residential roofs or an unlimited license, allowing them to work on residential, commercial, and industrial roofs.
All applicants must pass the state exam corresponding to their license type and provide proof of insurance, which includes a minimum of $250,000 per occurrence for property damage, a minimum of $500,000 per occurrence for liability, and workers' compensation if they have employees. Limited license applicants are required to have a $10,000 bond, while unlimited licensees must maintain a $25,000 bond.
Indiana
License required: No
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
In Indiana, there is no state-level licensing for trade professionals, including roofers. However, construction professionals and roofers may be obligated to obtain a license from the specific city or county where they conduct their work.
Iowa
License required: No, but registering is required.
Insurance required: Yes (unemployment insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
In Iowa, roofers are required to register with the Iowa Division of Labor if they earn $2,000 or more annually from construction-related work. To complete the registration, roofing contractors must furnish proof of unemployment insurance. If they have employees, additional proof of workers' compensation coverage is necessary. Out-of-state contractors are also mandated to carry a $25,000 bond.
Kansas
License required: No, but registering is required.
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
Kansas roofers need to register with the Kansas Attorney General for a roofing contractor certificate. Alongside the application, they must provide a certificate of liability insurance (minimum $500,000), proof of workers' compensation coverage, and a current tax clearance certificate. If registered in another state, they must also show a clean disciplinary record. Local jurisdictions may have additional requirements, such as examinations, for licensing.
Kentucky
License required: No
Insurance required: No
In Kentucky, roofing contractors are not subject to state licensing but may face requirements from individual city or county jurisdictions where they work. For quality assurance, the Kentucky Roofing Contractors Association (KRCA) offers a voluntary certification program. To be certified, contractors must maintain a minimum of $1 million in general liability and workers' compensation, have a $10,000 judgment bond, and adhere to the KRCA's code of ethics.
Louisiana
License required: Yes
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: Louisiana State Licensing Board Online Contractor Search
Louisiana mandates roofing contractors to be licensed. To obtain certification, individuals must pass a state trade exam covering roofing, sheet metal, and siding. Businesses must be registered with the Louisiana Secretary of State and provide a financial statement, proof of general liability coverage, workers' compensation insurance, and other essential business documents.
Maine
License required: No
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance)
In Maine, home contractors, including roofers, are not licensed or regulated by the state. The North East Roofing Contractors Association (NERCA) plays a vital role in maintaining industry standards by offering support and training to roofing professionals. Seeking a reputable roofing contractor in Maine can refer to the NERCA member list for trusted professionals.
Maryland
License required: Yes
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; property damage insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: Maryland Department of Labor Home Improvement Commission
In Maryland, roofers obtain licensure through the state's Home Improvement Commission. To be licensed, applicants must pass the licensing exam and have a minimum of two years of experience in the home improvement or construction industry (or equivalent education). Their application must include proof of financial solvency or a surety bond, $50,000 of liability insurance, and other necessary business documents.
Massachusetts
License required: Yes
Insurance required: No
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: Massachusetts Board of Building Regulations
To undertake roofing work in Massachusetts, obtaining a Specialty CSL Roof Covering license is obligatory. Getting a license requires three years of experience in the building industry or an acceptable equivalent and passing a specialized roofing examination. Moreover, individuals are required to register their business with the Secretary of State's office, submitting the required documentation. Additionally, they must register with the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation as a Home Improvement Contractor.
Michigan
License required: Yes
Insurance required: No
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
Michigan roofing professionals must obtain a Residential Maintenance and Alteration Contractor's license. This involves completing 60 hours of approved courses, including topics like business management and Michigan building codes. After fulfilling educational requirements, they must pass the specific Residential Maintenance and Alteration Contractor examination for roofing. Always check license numbers with the local building department and inquire about area-specific licensing requirements.
Minnesota
License required: Yes, for projects valued at over $15,000 annually.
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; property damage insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: Department of Labor and Industry License and Registration Lookup
In Minnesota, residential contractors performing work exceeding $15,000 annually must be licensed. Roofing professionals can hold various licenses, including residential roofer, residential building contractor, or residential remodeler. Those installing gutter systems need a residential building or remodeler license. Subcontractors don't need a license but must be registered with the Contractor Registration Program. To obtain a roofer license, applicants must pass a pre-licensing exam and provide proof of a $15,000 bond, general liability, and property damage coverage.
Mississippi
License required: Yes
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; workers' compensation insurance for contractors with 5 or more employees)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: MSBOC
To be licensed as residential roofing contractors in Mississippi, individuals must pass state law and business management exams, along with a trade exam. They need proof of completing three jobs, three letters of recommendation, including one from a bank, and proof of general liability coverage. Workers' compensation insurance is required if they have a minimum of five employees, along with other necessary business documents.
Missouri
License required: No, but registering is required.
Insurance required: Yes (motor vehicle insurance, liability insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
In Missouri, roofers must register with both the Secretary of State and the Department of Commerce and Insurance. To obtain a certificate of registration, they need to submit proof of motor vehicle insurance, liability insurance with a minimum of $1 million coverage, and workers' compensation coverage.
Montana
License required: No, but registering is required.
Insurance required: Yes (workers' compensation insurance)
Roofing contractors in Montana with employees must register their business with the Department of Labor and Industry. Additionally, they are required to maintain workers' compensation coverage, ensuring a safe working environment for their employees. There is no proficiency testing required for applicants.
Nebraska
License required: No, but registering is required.
Insurance required: Yes (workers' compensation insurance)
In Nebraska, roofing contractors with employees must register their business with the Nebraska Department of Labor and carry workers' compensation coverage if they have one or more employees. No proficiency testing is required for applicants.
Nevada
License required: Yes
Insurance required: Yes (workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: The Nevada State Contractors Board
In Nevada, roofing professionals are granted a Class C specialty contractor license. To qualify, applicants need a minimum of four years of journeyman-level experience or relevant roles such as supervisor, foreman, or contractor. Additionally, all roofing contractors must pass both a trade examination and a business and law examination. Once licensed, roofers must carry workers' compensation coverage and a bond, the limit of which is determined at the time of license approval.
New Hampshire
License required: No
Insurance required: Yes (workers' compensation insurance)
In New Hampshire, roofers are not required to have a state license. However, they may need a license from the city or county where they operate.
New Jersey
License required: No, but registering is required.
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs
In New Jersey, all contractors accepting payment in 90 days or less or using credit cards are exempt from licensing. However, home repair contractors, including roofing contractors, must register with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs and furnish proof of a general liability policy with a minimum coverage of $500,000 per occurrence.
New Mexico
License required: Yes
Insurance required: Yes (workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: NMRLD
In New Mexico, all roofing contractors must undergo a licensing procedure with the Construction Industries Division. Prior to applying, individuals need a minimum of two years of experience working under a licensed contractor or in a foreman-level position, or they must have completed a state apprenticeship program. Following this period, applicants must pass a skills examination and can then apply for licensure by submitting the required application, fees, proof of bonding, workers' compensation insurance, and other necessary documentation.
New York
License required: No
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
The state of New York doesn't regulate or license roofing contractors at the state level. However, some cities or municipalities may require a registration or license with them. Homeowners seeking a reputable roofing contractor in New York can refer to the NERCA member list.
North Carolina
License required: Yes, for projects valued at $30,000 or more.
Insurance required: No
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: NCLBGC
In North Carolina, roofing contractors working on projects worth $30,000 or more must possess a general contractor's license with a roofing classification. To obtain this license, applicants must pass an exam and fulfill specific financial requirements based on the limitation of the license. While workers' compensation coverage is mandatory for conducting any business in North Carolina, the state does not require roofers to be bonded or carry other types of insurance.
North Dakota
License required: Yes, for projects valued at over $4,000.
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: ND Secretary of State
In North Dakota, any contractor, including roofing contractors, undertaking work exceeding $4,000 per job must obtain a license. To secure a license, applicants need to submit an application to the Secretary of State's office. This application must include a certificate of liability insurance and a statement from Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI) confirming compliance with WSI requirements. Always verify license numbers with the local building department and inquire about specific licensing requirements in your area.
Ohio
License required: No, but registering is required.
Insurance required: No
In Ohio, roofing is not among the five key building trades that require licensing. Nevertheless, roofing contractors in the state must register with the Secretary of State's office and obtain a license to conduct business. Each municipality in Ohio has its specific regulations regarding contractor licensing, so it's important to inquire about the licensing requirements in different areas of the state.
Oklahoma
License required: No, but registering is required.
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
In Oklahoma, roofers are required to register with the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board. To apply, roofers must provide proof of workers' compensation coverage and $500,000 of general liability insurance. Residential roofers aren't subjected to educational requirements, but commercial roofers are. Some local municipalities may have their own licensing requirements.
Oregon
License required: Yes
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: Oregon CCB Contractor License Search
In Oregon, individuals performing construction work for payment must obtain a license. Before applying, individuals need to complete a 16-hour pre-license training course based on the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA) Contractor's Guide to Business, Law, and Project Management. Subsequently, they must pass an exam with a score of 70% or higher. Additionally, applicants are required to provide proof of a surety bond, general liability insurance, and workers' compensation coverage if they have employees.
Pennsylvania
License required: No, but registering is required.
Insurance required: Yes
In Pennsylvania, most construction contractors, including roofers, are not regulated or licensed at the state level but fall under local jurisdictions. Home improvement contractors must register with the Pennsylvania Attorney General's office, maintain insurance coverage, and use contracts meeting consumer protection requirements. Cities or towns may have their own licensing requirements for contractors. For reputable roofing contractors, refer to the North East Roofing Contractors Association (NERCA) member list.
Rhode Island
License required: Yes, but only for commercial roofers.
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board
Only commercial roofing contractors in Rhode Island are required to obtain a roofing license. Residential roofers, however, are exempt from licensing requirements. To register, applicants should demonstrate completion of a 5-hour course or graduation from an accredited technical or vocational school within two years. Additionally, they must possess $500,000 liability insurance, provide workers' compensation coverage for employees, and obtain a business ID number from the Rhode Island Secretary of State.
South Carolina
License required: No, but registering is required.
Insurance required: No
In South Carolina, residential roofing contractors must register as Residential Specialty Contractors with a roofing classification. To register, applicants need to submit three letters of reference demonstrating a year of experience within the past five years. Additionally, they must provide a copy of their credit report and demonstrate coverage with a $5,000 bond if their work exceeds that amount. Specialty contractors can register under three trade classifications, and their scope of work must align with those trades.
South Dakota
License required: No
Insurance required: Yes (workers' compensation insurance)
In South Dakota, there is no state-level licensing for trade professionals, including roofers. However, these professionals may still be required to obtain a license from the specific city or county where they operate.
Tennessee
License required: Yes, for projects valued at over $25,000.
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: TN Department of Commerce & Insurance License Search
In Tennessee, roofing contractors with projects over $25,000 need a specialized contractor's license, providing proof of experience, exam scores, financial status, and necessary documents. They must also have liability and workers' compensation insurance for employees. For projects between $3,000 and $25,000 in specific counties (Shelby, Knox, Haywood, Robertson, Bradley, Hamilton, Rutherford, Davidson, and Marion), a Home Improvement license is required. Contractors working on insurance-covered projects must include consumer protection language in contracts.
Texas
License required: No
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
In Texas, the Department of Licensing and Regulation doesn't license roofing contractors, but local rules may apply. To apply for a voluntary licensure program, applicants must have been in Texas for at least two continuous years, submit proof of $300,000 general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage (or equivalent), and achieve a 70% or higher score on basic business and safety knowledge exams, along with residential and/or commercial roofing exams before applying.
Utah
License required: Yes
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing
In the state of Utah, it is mandatory for roofing professionals to hold a specialty contractor license with the Division of Professional Licensing. To qualify, they need to complete a 25-hour pre-licensure course and maintain $300,000 in general liability insurance. If the contractor has employees, workers' compensation coverage is also mandatory.
Vermont
License required: No
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
In Vermont, there is no state licensure requirement for roofers. However, any contractor undertaking work valued at $10,000 or more must register with the Office of Professional Regulation.
Virginia
License required: Yes
Insurance required: No
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: DPOR
Roofing contractors in Virginia are required to obtain a license for their work. Licenses are categorized into different classes based on the project's value, and they all mandate the successful completion of a pre-licensure course, and have varying experience requirements, with Class A representing the highest level of experience. A Class C license is limited to projects with a valuation of $10,000 or less per project and $150,000 annually. Class B is for projects valued at $120,000 or less per project, with a yearly restriction of $750,000. Class A has no monetary restrictions.
Washington
License required: No, but registering is required.
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance)
Roofing contractors in Washington state must register as Specialty Contractors with the Labor and Industries Department. The registration requires a $6,000 bond and $250,000 in general liability coverage. No specific experience or education requirements exist, but Specialty Contractors is restricted from registering subcontractors.
West Virginia
License required: Yes
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; unemployment insurance; workers' compensation insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: WV Division of Labor Contractor Search
In West Virginia, all contractors, including roofing contractors, must apply for a license through the Division of Labor. This involves passing a West Virginia business and law exam, along with a trade exam. Contractors need to furnish proof of workers' compensation and unemployment coverage for employees, along with general liability insurance.
Wisconsin
License required: Yes, Dwelling Contractor License.
Insurance required: Yes (liability insurance; unemployment insurance)
Check if your roofing pro is licensed: Department of Safety and Professional Services
In Wisconsin, any contractor, including roofing professionals, undertaking work requiring a permit must be licensed as a "dwelling contractor" through the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. To obtain this license, contractors must demonstrate compliance with workers' compensation and unemployment compensation requirements. Additionally, they need to show proof of financial responsibility through either a $25,000 bond or $250,000 of general liability coverage.
Wyoming
License required: No
Insurance required: No
In Wyoming, roofers are not regulated by the state, as it only oversees licensure for electricians in the building trades. However, roofers may encounter licensure or other requirements at the city or county level.
Is it Legal to Work With a License from a Different State?
Certain states have reciprocity agreements, allowing them to recognize contractor or roofing licenses issued by another state. This arrangement streamlines the licensing process for contractors working across state lines and encourages mobility within the industry.
These are the states lacking reciprocity agreements for contractor licenses, requiring contractors to obtain separate licenses when operating in different states:
- Connecticut
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Michigan
- Missouri
- New Jersey
- New York
- Rhode Island
- Wisconsin
- Pennsylvania
Contractors licensed in these states need to be aware of the specific licensing requirements and procedures for each state.
Adam Graham is a construction industry analyst at Fixr.com. He has experience writing about home construction, interior design, and real estate. He communicates with experts and journalists to make sure we provide the most up-to-date and fact-checked information. He has been featured in publications such as Better Homes and Gardens, and written for various outlets including the National Association of Realtors, and Insurance News Net Magazine.