In Idaho, you don’t need a statewide general contractor license, but most construction contractors who take on work of $2,000 or more must register with the Idaho Contractors Board unless they qualify for an exemption. Here’s how the process works and what insurance can help you meet state requirements.
Idaho general contractor license and insurance requirements
Make sure you’re compliant with the licensing requirements and business insurance requirements for Idaho contractors.
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Do I need a general contractor license in Idaho?
No, the state of Idaho doesn’t have a licensure requirement for general contractors. However, certain specialty trades — such as electrical, plumbing and HVAC — must hold state-issued licenses through the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL). When they work within the scope of those licenses, they may be exempt from contractor registration under Idaho law.
If you work on government-funded projects, you may also need a public works contractor license (for projects with public funding of $50,000 or more) or a construction manager license (for public projects of $10,000 or more).
When is contractor registration required?
You must register with the state if your work exceeds $2,000, including materials and labor. While there isn’t a statewide licensing system, some cities and counties may have local regulations and permitting requirements you must follow.
Exemptions for specialty trades and property owners
There are several exemptions to the general contractor registration process. Licensed specialty contractors like electrical contractors, plumbers, HVAC installers, engineers, and surveyors are exempt as long as they operate within the scope of their license.
Property owners who work on their land and don’t plan to sell it within a year and commercial building owners who maintain their buildings with their own staff are also exempt from registration.
How to register a general contractor business in Idaho
Registering a general contractor business in Idaho is mandatory before you can start operating in the state. Here’s what you’ll need to do.
Choose your contractor type
There are several different types of contracting types. General contractors will typically register for the following:
- General Commercial Builder
- General Residential Builder
- General Remodel Builder
Steps to complete the Idaho contractor registration application
- Gather required documents, including proof of identity/legal residency and business structure paperwork.
- Collect insurance certificates for general liability (minimum $300,000) and workers’ compensation or exemption status.
- Complete any required disclosure statements, such as prior discipline or criminal history.
- Prepare the $50 application fee. You can pay online through DOPL’s portal or by mailing a check.
- Complete and submit an application by mail or online. Provide the requested documentation and pay the fee.
What documents you need to submit
There are two separate registrations; you can either apply as an individual or a business entity. To operate legally in Idaho, you must submit the following:
- Name and address of each business owner
- Proof of identity and taxpayer information, such as a Social Security number (for individuals) or Employer Identification Number (for businesses).
- Certificate of assumed name or business structure (if applicable)
- Certificate of General Liability insurance for at least $300,000
- Certificate of Worker’s Compensation policy or exemption
- A statement of the type of construction to be undertaken
- A statement that the applicant (or other stakeholders claiming ownership) has never been denied or had revoked a contractor’s license or registration privilege in Idaho or another state
- Disclosure forms, if necessary for your situation.
The Idaho Contractors Board will review your application. If approved, you must display your registration number at your place of business or jobsite and on all advertising, contracts, building permits, letterheads, purchase orders and subcontracts.
Insurance requirements for Idaho general contractors
Business insurance is a crucial aspect of any construction project. As a general contractor in Idaho, you must understand the state’s insurance requirements to approve your registration application. We’re also including other optional, but helpful coverages to protect business assets.
General Liability insurance
Idaho asks for proof of general liability insurance up front, so you can show you’re ready to work safely and professionally. You’ll be asked for your certificate of insurance with a minimum coverage of $300,000.
General liability can help protect your business from accidents, injuries, or property damage during a construction project. Coverage also gives your clients peace of mind, knowing that it protects their property and investment in case of mishaps.
Learn more about general liability for contractors.
Worker’s Compensation insurance
Workers’ compensation insurance is generally required for general contractors in Idaho if you have employees. It helps protect employees who may suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. A typical policy covers medical expenses, rehabilitation costs and lost wages for injured workers.
You will also need to provide proof of coverage when you register or a statement of exemption.
Learn more about Workers’ Comp for construction workers.
Tools and Equipment insurance
Your tools keep your business moving, so protecting them isn’t optional — it’s part of keeping your jobs on track. For general contractors, those tools are more than mere investments — they’re the backbone of your business. That’s why tools and equipment insurance is essential coverage.
This policy protects your tools, equipment, and livelihood against theft, fire, vandalism, and other unforeseen events, allowing you to rest easy knowing that your assets are secure.
Commercial Auto insurance
All vehicles in Idaho, whether for personal or commercial use, are required to have a minimum amount of auto coverage. Idaho’s insurance requirements are as follows:
- $25,000 bodily injury per person
- $50,000 bodily injury per accident
- $15,000 for property damage
Personal auto coverage often isn’t enough when running a general contractor business. Commercial auto insurance helps protect against accidents or damage when on the job or transporting materials, tools, and equipment to and from the job site.
Commercial Property insurance
Owning or renting property for your business is a significant investment, and protecting it from potential damages and vandalism is critical. That’s why commercial property insurance is helpful coverage for general contractors — it provides protection for your business property.
Idaho general contractor registration renewal requirements
Historically, registrations were valid until one year after your next birthday. As of late 2025, the Idaho Contractors Board is transitioning to a two-year registration cycle, so your renewal period may be longer. Check the latest guidance from DOPL to confirm your specific renewal date.
The online renewal system asks for your registration number and Social Security number or Employer Identification number, depending on whether you registered as an individual or as a business. It also requires a $50 renewal fee.
How NEXT supports Idaho general contractors
Protecting your business and ensuring it thrives is a top priority, and NEXT Insurance can help you achieve both with general contractor insurance.
Our easy-to-use online services let you apply for coverage and receive a certificate of insurance in just minutes, all from your computer or mobile device — even if you’re at a job site.
As a company that specializes in small business insurance, we’ve helped thousands of construction professionals get an affordable insurance package tailored to their specific requirements.
Get an instant quote online today.
Do you have projects in another U.S. state? Visit our summary of general contractor license requirements in every state.
This information has been provided as a service. It is correct and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge; however, it is in no way intended to offer legal advice and you must always consult with local authorities before you make any business decisions. Regulations and requirements may change at any time.
About the author
Kim Mercado is a small business insurance writer at NEXT, producing content for small business owners. She enjoys helping entrepreneurs solve their business challenges and learn about insurance. Kim has also contributed content to Salesforce, Samsara and Google.
