District of Columbia Contractor License Classifications

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Contractor classifications in the District of Columbia are structured across two principal authorities: the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP), which issues entity-level Basic Business Licenses (BBL), and the DC Board of Industrial Trades, which licenses technical trade masters and contractors for electrical, plumbing, gasfitting, and refrigeration/HVAC disciplines under 17 DCMR Chapter 39.

License & Credential Catalog

Authority: 17 DCMR Chapter 8 & D.C. Code § 47-2851

Basic Business License required for any person or entity contracting to repair, remodel, alter, or modernize residential property in the District of Columbia. Requires a $25,000 surety bond and Clean Hands certification.

Notes: Mandatory $25,000 surety bond and strict contract disclosure requirements under 17 DCMR § 808.

Authority: D.C. Official Code § 47-2851.03d & 12A DCMR

Commercial and residential general contracting license authorizing new construction, commercial renovations, and major structural work. Graded into Classes A through E based on project contract value.

Notes: Requires commercial general liability insurance ($500,000 to $2,500,000 depending on class) and corporate registration.

Authority: D.C. Code § 47-2853.06 & 17 DCMR Chapter 39

Trade license issued by the DC Board of Industrial Trades authorizing the installation, alteration, and repair of electrical wiring, equipment, and services in commercial and residential structures.

Notes: Requires employing or designating a licensed Master Electrician of record.

Authority: D.C. Code § 47-2853.06 & 17 DCMR Chapter 39

Trade license authorizing the installation and maintenance of sanitary drainage, venting, water supply, and fuel gas piping systems. Must designate a licensed Master Plumber and Gasfitter.

Notes: Requires designated Master Plumber / Gasfitter and trade permits.

Authority: D.C. Code § 47-2853.06 & 17 DCMR Chapter 39

Trade contractor credential authorizing the design, installation, and servicing of heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning systems in the District of Columbia.

Notes: Requires designated Master Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic.

Authority: 12A DCMR § 105.1 (Construction Codes Supplement)

Mandatory permit issued by the DLCP Permitting Division required prior to commencing any structural construction, roofing replacement, addition, or demolition in the District.

Notes: Enforces International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) standards.

Referenced Statutes & Regulations

dc:agency:bbl-contractor-directoryboard page

District of Columbia Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP)

DLCP General Contractor & Construction Manager Licensing Guide

https://dlcp.dc.gov/page/general-contractor-construction-manager-license