How to Get Your Utah Contractor
License in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

Becoming a licensed contractor in Utah is a major step toward building a successful and professional career in the construction industry. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about getting your Utah contractor license in 2026.

Why Getting a Utah Contractor License Matters

A contractor license is required in the state of Utah, but getting licensed does more than just meet a legal requirement. It opens the door to bigger opportunities, helps your business stand out, and protects the work you’ve built.

Being licensed shows your clients that you are professional, knowledgeable, and serious about your quality standards. That credibility builds trust, and trust is key to growing your business in today’s competitive market.

Step-by-Step: Utah Contractor License Requirements

Understanding the requirements set by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) can feel overwhelming, especially for new contractors.

That’s why HBA Utah has created a simple step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Complete the 25-hour pre-license course.

All contractor classifications in Utah are required to complete a 25-hour pre-license course with an approved provider. This course covers essential topics such as safety, regulations, and best construction practices. HBA Utah offers approved courses that are designed specifically to help contractors navigate these important topics for your business.

Register for the Pre-License Course

5-hour Business & Law course (General Contractors Only)

If you are applying for a General Contractor license (B100, R100, E100, E200, or P200), you are required to complete an additional 5-hour Business and Law test preparation course.

This course is not required for subcontractors, but it is essential for those pursuing a general contractor license. It helps you focus on the most important information from the book and gives you insight into the types of questions you may encounter on the exam.

Register for the Test Prep Course

Set up a legal business entity (LLC, S-Corp, etc.)

Before applying for your license, you must establish a legal business entity, such as an LLC, S-
Corp, or C-Corp. Many contractors choose to register as an LLC and file as an S-Corp due totax and liability benefits, which are explained in detail during the 25-hour pre-license course.

Business entities are registered through the Utah Division of Corporations.

Obtain General Liability Insurance

Utah requires contractors to carry general liability insurance with minimum coverage of:

  • $100,000 per incident
  • $300,000 total coverage

The insurance certificate must list DOPL as the certificate holder. This protects both you and your clients in the event of accidents or damages.Utah requires contractors to carry general liability insurance with minimum coverage of:

Obtain General Liability Insurance

All contractors must obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal
Revenue Service. This number is used for tax purposes and is required regardless of whether
you have employees.

Obtain General Liability Insurance

Your requirements depend on whether you have employees:
If you have employees, you must:

  • Register for state withholding taxes with the Utah State Tax Commission
  • Register for unemployment insurance with the Utah Department of Workforce Services

If you do not have employees, you must obtain a Workers’ Compensation Coverage Waiver
from the Utah Labor Commission

Experience and Exam Requirements for General
Contractors

Two years of construction experience

To become a General Contractor, you must have two years of paid work experience in the construction industry at any point in your career. This experience is self-certified.

Alternative ways to meet this requirement include:

  • Serving as a qualifier on a Utah contractor license for at least two years
  • Holding a Construction Management degree
  • Being a licensed Professional Engineer in Utah
  • Passing the NASCLA Commercial General Building Contractors exam

Pass the Utah Business & Law Exam

All general contractors must pass the Utah Business & Law Exam, which is administered
through PROV Exam. You must register, pay the exam fee, and pass the exam before
submitting your license application.

PROV Exam

How HBA Utah Helps Contractors Succeed

HBA Utah makes the licensing process simple by offering:

  • Approved 25-hour pre-license courses
  • Business & Law exam preparation
  • Ongoing support and reminders

By choosing HBA Utah, contractors get access to trusted education and a supportive
professional community.

Start Your Contractor Journey with Confidence

Getting your Utah contractor license doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right guidance, education, and support, you can move through the process with confidence.