General Contractor / North Dakota
2026 data North Dakota board official source

North Dakota General Contractor License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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Oversees construction projects. Requirements vary significantly by state.

What the North Dakota data shows for General Contractors

To practice as a general contractor in North Dakota, the state licensing board requires board-approved training, a passing score on State Contractor License Exam, and 4 years of supervised work experience. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under North Dakota's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Experience plus Exam".

Upfront cost is $75, with renewal running $75 on a 2-year cycle. Expect roughly 3 weeks of processing once a complete application is submitted. There's no continuing-education mandate tied to this profession in North Dakota, which keeps the long-run cost of staying licensed lighter than in CE-heavy states.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Usually not reciprocal — state-by-state basis.

Licensing Requirements in North Dakota

Education / Training Hours
Experience plus Exam
Not specified
Exam Requirement
State Contractor License Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$121
Renewal Fee
$110
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
4 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$75
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$75
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
3 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
Not required
Compare fees across all states for General Contractor →

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for General Contractor All North Dakota licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with North Dakota licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for General Contractor in North Dakota? ▼
In North Dakota, the license path calls for, a passing score on State Contractor License Exam, and a $121 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a General Contractor in North Dakota? ▼
To become a licensed general contractor in North Dakota, you must meet the state's requirements and 4 years of work experience. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the North Dakota licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my General Contractor license to North Dakota from another state? ▼
For general contractors, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: Usually not reciprocal — state-by-state basis. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the North Dakota licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does North Dakota require a background check for General Contractor licensing? ▼
Yes, North Dakota requires a criminal background check as part of the general contractor licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
How much does it cost to get a General Contractor license in North Dakota? ▼
The initial licensing fee in North Dakota is $75. The renewal fee is $75 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 3 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does General Contractor license processing take in North Dakota? ▼
In North Dakota, license processing for general contractors typically takes approximately 3 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.