Contractors License Overview
- All individuals and businesses performing construction work in Iowa are required to register with the Iowa Division of Labor if they earn at least $2,000 a year from that work.
- Electrical work is regulated and licensed by the Iowa State Fire Marshal. To be licensed, applicants must submit an application and be approved to take an electrical trade exam.
- Plumbing and mechanical work is regulated and licensed by the Iowa Dept. of Public Health. To be licensed, applicants must submit an application and be approved to take a plumbing or mechanical trade exam.
- Building construction in Iowa does not require a state license, but may still require a local license or registration, depending on the city or county where the work is being performed.
- Information regarding exam details, reference materials, experience requirements, reciprocity, and other requirements for obtaining and maintaining a license are available by selecting the license links found below.
Iowa Residential
Iowa Residential Contractor
The Residential Contractor exam tests a candidate’s knowledge of the construction, remodeling, repair, and improvement of single or multiple residential dwelling units as defined by the building code.
Iowa Commercial
Iowa Building Contractor
Construction work including new construction, additions, alterations, demolition, reconstruction or repair of structures may require state registration. All work performed for the state or a state agency requires registration.
Iowa General Contractor
The General Contractor Classification exam tests a candidate’s knowledge of the construction, repair, alteration, remodeling, addition to, subtraction from, improvement, and demolition of any building or structure including related improvements to real estate EXCLUDING electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and liquefied petroleum gas work related thereto.
Iowa Business and Law
Iowa Business and Law
This is a required exam that tests a candidate’s knowledge of payroll taxes, Workers’ Compensation, Unemployment Compensation, Lien Laws and other laws or subjects the affect daily operations as contractors.