Some states have no statewide requirement for licensing of general contractors. New Hampshire is one of them. While some specialty contractors, like electricians, plumbers, and lead and asbestos abatement specialists are licensed at the state level in New Hampshire, general contractors are not. That said, there may be licensing requirements at the municipal level for general contractors. Here’s how to get a New Hampshire contractor’s license.
Who Needs a Contractor’s License?
In states that have no statewide licensing requirement, like New Hampshire, it’s important for general contractors to check with municipal governments in the areas where they will be working, as some towns, cities, and counties may have their own licensing or permitting processes. Anyone planning to run a business of any kind in New Hampshire, including a general contracting business, must register it with the state.
Registering a Business in New Hampshire
The New Hampshire Secretary of State’s office handles business registrations. New Hampshire offers the ability to create a new business online. Note, however, that you do not need to register your business if you conduct business in your own name rather than as a legal entity such as a partnership or limited liability corporation.
Licensing of Specialty Contractors
New Hampshire provides substantial resources for professionals in the four specialty trades for which state-level licensing is required. To learn about the educational, experiential, and examination requirements, as well as the fees involved, visit the appropriate state website:
- The Office of Professional Licensure and Certification Electricians’ Board handles licensing of electricians. New Hampshire licenses electricians at several levels, progressing in difficulty from the Apprentice Electrician license to the High/Medium Voltage Electrician license, the Journeyman Electrician license, and ultimately the Master Electrician license. New Hampshire has reciprocal agreements for licensing of electricians with Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont.
- The New Hampshire Department of Safety issues licenses for plumbers. There are three levels: Apprentice, Journeyman, and Master.
- The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services licenses asbestos abatement professionals in two categories: Asbestos abatement entity (contractors) and asbestos disposal site contractors. Additionally, the department certifies workers in these categories: asbestos abatement supervisors, asbestos abatement workers, asbestos inspectors, asbestos management planners, asbestos project designers, and asbestos disposal site workers.
- The Division of Public Health Services, Healthy Homes and Lead Poisoning Prevention Program handles licensing of lead abatement specialists. You must be licensed by the division in order to do lead abatement or lead inspections.
Is a Contractor’s License Bond Required?
Municipalities that require contractors to be licensed may also require them to obtain a contractor’s license bond. There’s no central listing of jurisdictions requiring contractors to be licensed. Before beginning to work in a given community, be sure to check with the local government to get the information on contractor licensing and bonding.
Get Bonded Today
If you find that you need a contractor’s license bond for your work in New Hampshire, you can count on Surety Bond Professionals to get you the best deal possible. If you have any questions about your bonding or licensing requirements, our knowledgeable agents will be happy to assist.
