This question is about general contractor certifications.

How long does it take to get a contractor's license?

By Kate Swindlehurst - Apr. 25, 2023

Typically, it takes anywhere from a few days to a few months to get a contractor's license. The vast disparity between these is due to the varied requirements for licensing for contractors throughout the United States. There is no federal license for being a contractor, so each state has its requirements.

The most common timeline for getting a contractor's license is around a month, which mostly includes preparation for taking and passing the licensing exam. Some states require people to complete preparation courses that typically take around eight weeks to finish.

In some states, such as Washington, they do not require contractors to hold licenses, and they just need to be registered instead. Registration involves gathering important information and materials and sending it to the state for approval.

How long does it take to get a contractor's license?

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