Licensing Guides
State Contractor License: How to Become a General Contractor in Oklahoma
Contractor, OK
Table of Contents
Why Do You Need a Contractor License in Oklahoma?
How Can You Get a Contractor License in Oklahoma?
Types of General Contractor Licenses in Oklahoma
What Are the Requirements of an Oklahoma Contractor License?
How Long Does It Take to Get a Contractor License in Oklahoma?
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Contractor License in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma Contractor License Training Programs and Schools
Does Oklahoma Reciprocate Contractor Licenses?
Do I Need to Renew my Contractor License in Oklahoma?
Are There Any Penalties for Contracting Without a License in Oklahoma?
We all need a place to live and work, and those buildings require upkeep and repair. They’re often the biggest investments we make in our lives and keeping them in good condition is essential. We count on professionals to know how to fix damage to or wear and tear on our homes and businesses. General contractors are typically the experts we rely on to help us with these repairs, and we need these people to know what they’re doing.
Many states require contractors to be licensed. Others simply require solid insurance to back up the essential work they perform. There are 520,900 construction managers and 1,599,800 construction laborers and helpers nationwide, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Oklahoma employs 1,830 managers and 10,790 laborers and helpers. The national number for managers is projected to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033 and 8% for laborers and helpers. In Oklahoma, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate for laborers and managers is 8% and 9%, respectively matching the national growth. If you’re thinking about becoming a contractor or you want a job in the field, you need to know the requirements in your state or local jurisdiction. This guide will help you determine what you need before you get started as a registered contractor in the state of Oklahoma.
Why Do You Need a Contractor License in Oklahoma?
While the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board (CIB) regulates plumbers, electricians, mechanical contractors, roofing contractors, building and construction inspectors, and home inspectors, general contractors are not required to have a license in the state of Oklahoma. However, some cities and counties enforce their own regulations for general contractors. It’s essential to check with the local jurisdiction where you plan to work to ensure compliance with their specific licensing or registration requirements.
For example, Oklahoma City requires registration for residential building construction. This registration is required to pull building permits. The city of Tahlequah requires a Building Contractor’s license to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, or demolish a residential or commercial building or structure within the city.
Failing to meet local licensing or registration requirements can result in fines, project delays, or even being prohibited from working in certain areas. Adhering to these rules not only ensures you’re operating legally but also enhances your credibility with clients and protects the integrity of your business.
How Can You Get a Contractor License in Oklahoma?
The process to become a licensed contractor varies depending on the locality.
In Oklahoma City, you must have general liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $50,000 per occurrence. You also need workers’ compensation coverage with a $100,000 per occurrence minimum if you have employees, or an exempt form otherwise. You must provide proof of lawful presence in the United States and pay a $100 registration fee.
To become licensed in Tahlequah, you need general liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $50,000 per occurrence, as well as workers’ compensation insurance or an exemption verification document. The license fee is $300.
Local requirements ensure contractors are properly insured and capable of meeting legal and financial obligations, helping to protect both the business and its employees and clients. By meeting these standards, contractors demonstrate their professionalism, legal compliance, and commitment to quality service.
Types of Contractor Licenses in Oklahoma
Oklahoma does not issue statewide contractor licenses, but certain municipalities, such as Oklahoma City and Tahlequah, have established their own licensing or registration processes. Contractors must verify the specific requirements for the areas they intend to serve to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.
Getting a general contractor license
Follow these steps to register as a Building Contractor in Oklahoma City:
OBTAIN REQUIRED DOCUMENTS: For the application, you need a certificate of liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $50,000 per occurrence. You also need workers’ compensation coverage with a $100,000 per occurrence minimum if you have employees, or an exempt form otherwise. You also must fill out an affidavit verifying lawful presence in the United States.
APPLY ONLINE: Apply for a license through the Oklahoma City Citizens Access online portal. The $100 registration fee can be paid via Visa, Mastercard, or Discover.
Follow these steps to obtain a Building Contractor’s license in Tahlequah:
OBTAIN REQUIRED DOCUMENTS: For the application, you need a certificate of liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $50,000 per occurrence. You also need workers’ compensation coverage or an exemption verification document.
FILL OUT APPLICATION: Fill out the license application and return it to the City Clerk via email, mail, or in person at 111 S. Cherokee Ave, Tahlequah, OK 74464. The $300 payment can be made in person or via phone at 918-525-4709.
For those interested in specific trade licenses, we recommend consulting our comprehensive guides to getting an electrician, plumber, or HVAC license in Oklahoma to understand the full scope of requirements and opportunities.
What Are the Requirements of an Oklahoma Contractor License?
Since there is no statewide license for contractors in Oklahoma, contractors must look to the local level for requirements.
Oklahoma City and Tahlequah require forms of insurance, including general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance to protect workers and homeowners from bodily injury and property damage. Both cities also require a license fee.
For contractors specializing in trades regulated by the state, such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and roofing, the requirements are more stringent.
Electrical Licenses:
A residential electrical journeyman license requires 4,000 hours (approximately two years) of hands-on experience in electrical construction work. Applicants may substitute up to 1,000 hours of the experience requirement with formal electrical education.
An unlimited electrical journeyman license requires 8,000 hours (four years) of job experience, with at least 4,000 hours in commercial or industrial work. Formal education may substitute for up to 2,000 hours. Both licenses require passing an exam.
Plumbing Licenses:
Aspiring plumbers must complete a three-year apprenticeship under a licensed plumbing contractor before qualifying for the journeyman plumber exam. After passing the exam, they must work as a journeyman for at least one year to become eligible for the plumbing contractor exam.
HVAC Licenses:
HVAC contractors must complete a three-year apprenticeship under a licensed contractor and pass the journeyman mechanical exam. Like plumbers, they must work as a journeyman for one year before qualifying for the mechanical contractor exam.
Roofing Contractor Registration:
Roofing contractors must submit a completed application, proof of workers’ compensation compliance, evidence of lawful presence, and the required fees.
Commercial roofing contractors must also pass the Oklahoma Commercial Roofing Contractor Endorsement exam, which includes both technical trade and business/law sections.
These rigorous trade licensing requirements reflect the need for specialized knowledge and skills to ensure quality work and compliance with safety standards. Meeting these qualifications not only protects clients and workers but also helps contractors build trust and credibility in their industry.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Contractor License in Oklahoma?
The length of time depends on the city in which you are obtaining licensure. Since there are no experience requirements for the Oklahoma City Building Contractor registration or the Tahlequah Building Contractor’s license, it’s relatively quick to complete the application process and become registered or licensed.
What Business Owners Need to Know
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How Much Does It Cost to Get a Contractor License in Oklahoma?
The Oklahoma City Building Contractor registration fee is $100. The Tahlequah Building Contractor’s license fee is $300.
It’s important to consider other potential expenses beyond license fees, including the cost of obtaining required insurance policies (general liability and workers’ compensation) and any business setup costs. These fees collectively contribute to ensuring contractors meet local and state standards for safety, competence, and professionalism.
Contractors should budget for both upfront and recurring expenses, such as annual license renewals or insurance premiums, to maintain compliance and keep their businesses running smoothly.
Oklahoma Contractor License Training Programs and Schools
While Oklahoma does not mandate specific educational requirements for contractor registration, the state offers numerous pathways for professional development and skill enhancement in the construction industry. The absence of mandatory coursework provides flexibility for aspiring contractors to pursue their careers through various educational and experiential routes.
If you choose to start your career path at a college or university, you can pursue a degree in construction management or construction engineering. There are higher education options throughout The Sooner State that offer these types of programs. They include:
If you don’t attend any formal schooling or training, but want to learn on the job, you may want to consider an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships represent a dynamic alternative to traditional academic paths, offering practical, on-the-job learning experiences. Through an apprenticeship, you work, accumulate necessary experience, and can earn money all at the same time. The length of time to complete an apprenticeship depends on the trade and program. Apprenticeships are available through organizations like Oklahoma Building Trades Unions and Associated Builders and Crafters of Oklahoma, as well as directly through construction companies.
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Does Oklahoma Reciprocate Contractor Licenses?
Since there is no state-level general contractor license requirement, there are no reciprocity agreements with other states. This also means there’s a low barrier to entry for out-of-state contractors, who only have to meet and comply with local requirements.
Do I Need to Renew my Contractor License in Oklahoma?
Yes, local licenses must be renewed. The Oklahoma City Building Contractor registration requires annual renewal for $100. The Building Contractor’s license in Tahlequah requires annual license renewal for $50.
Are There Any Penalties for Contracting Without a License in Oklahoma?
Since there’s no state license, penalties are up to each jurisdiction. In Oklahoma City, operating without the proper license registration is considered a Class B offense, making them subject to penalties and stop work orders. Operating without a license in Tahlequah is in violation of their Building Code and subject to penalties.
Beyond the direct legal penalties, unlicensed contractors risk damage to their reputation, loss of client trust, and potential civil lawsuits if their work fails to meet safety or quality standards. Additionally, contractors operating without the required insurance coverage could be held personally liable for accidents, injuries, or property damage, which can result in significant financial losses.
National Certifications
Other certifications can help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients. There are many professional organizations that offer certification. These certifications are not required but can add to your marketability and therefore increase your opportunity to make more money.
Some of the top construction certifications are:
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Safety Certificate
Construction Management Association of America Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
National Association of Safety Professionals (NASP) Certified Safety Manager (CSM) certification
National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER)
Continuing Education
Though Oklahoma City and Tahlequah do not require continuing education for license or registration renewal, you will want to stay informed about emerging technology in the industry. There are many ways to keep yourself current in regard to the technology put to use in construction, roofing, energy and environmental designs, efficiency standards and more. For example, distributors want you to know about their company’s latest offerings and will often hold training sessions about new and changing equipment and parts. Another option is the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) which provides continuing education courses.
Resources
You can stay up to date on contracting industry news several ways:
Check top blogs, including ServiceTitan’s blog.
Read about the latest industry trends, and discover ideas on how to grow your business.
Listen to top podcasts like ServiceTitan’s “Toolbox for the Trades” podcast.
ServiceTitan is a comprehensive business software solution built specifically to help service companies streamline their operations, boost revenue, and achieve growth. Our award-winning, cloud-based platform is trusted by more than 100,000 contractors across the country.
Ready to learn more about what ServiceTitan can do for your business? Contact our team to schedule a demo today.
