Idaho Contractor Licenses: Updated Requirements Guide
Idaho regulates many contractor activities at the state level while also allowing cities and counties to require their own local registrations for certain trades. Most electrical, plumbing, and HVAC licenses are issued by the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL), with clearly defined apprenticeship, journeyman, master, and contractor pathways. General contractor registration is statewide through DOPL, but several cities—especially Idaho Falls, Boise, and Nampa—add local licensing or registration for general building, roofing, and certain specialty trades.
If you plan to work across multiple Idaho jurisdictions, you may need both a state license or registration and a local city/county registration. This guide summarizes every major trade and license based on official 2025 Idaho sources, and it highlights where local registration applies, so you can plan your applications efficiently.
Primary oversight is through DOPL’s Contractors Board and trade boards. For public works and fire sprinkler work, additional authorities apply. Always verify current rules with the official agencies before you apply, as requirements and fees can change.
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Overview of Idaho Contractor Licensing
The Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL) administers statewide licensing and registration for contractors and trade professionals. Electrician, plumbing, and HVAC licensure are state-regulated with defined apprentice, journeyman, and master tracks, and electrical contracting requires a separate business-level license. General contractors must register with DOPL, show insurance, and meet basic entity requirements, but there is no state exam for general registration.
Idaho also uses local (city/county) licensing for certain trades that are not fully regulated at the state level, especially general building, roofing, and other specialty subcontractor work. Cities such as Idaho Falls, Boise, and Nampa maintain their own contractor registration programs, commonly requiring business documentation, insurance, and, in some cases, verification of competency (e.g., ICC exam or reciprocity).
If your scope includes electrical, plumbing, or HVAC installations, plan to obtain the appropriate state license. If your scope includes general building or roofing—or you pull permits in specific cities—review the local registration requirements as well. When in doubt, contact the state board and the local building department where you intend to work.
Browse all Idaho contractor license practice tests →
Electrician Licenses in Idaho
Idaho regulates electrical work with 4 license types:
Idaho Apprentice Electrician
Eligibility & Requirements
- Experience: 8,000 supervised hours for advancement, documented via employer attestations and DOPL-approved training logs.
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent and enrollment in a state-approved apprenticeship program.
- Age: Minimum 16.
- Exam: No state exam required at the apprentice level.
Fees
- Application: $30
- Initial License: $30
- Renewal: $30
- Late Penalty: $35
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: Not required at apprentice level for state licensure.
- Renewal: Annual; no continuing education required at the apprentice level.
Source: DOPL Electrical Licensing
Idaho Journeyman Electrician
Eligibility & Requirements
- Experience: 8,000 hours and completion of an approved apprenticeship; documentation required.
- Education: High school diploma/equivalent; apprenticeship completion.
- Age: Minimum 18.
- Exam: Required; administered by DOPL/PSI.
Exam Details
- Name: Idaho Journeyman Electrician Exam
- Format: Closed book, multiple choice
- Questions: 80 · Duration: 4 hours · Passing Score: 70%
- Primary content sources: 2020 National Electrical Code; Idaho statutes and rules
- Topics: NEC compliance, Idaho rules/laws, electrical calculations
- Retake: May retake after 30 days if unsuccessful
Fees
- Application: $35
- Examination: $75
- Initial License: $45
- Renewal: $45
- Late Penalty: $35
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: Not required for the journeyman license.
- Renewal: Annual; 24 hours of continuing education every 3 years (code updates, Idaho statutes, electrical safety).
Source: DOPL Electrical Licensing
Idaho Master Electrician
Eligibility & Requirements
- Experience: 4 years as a licensed Idaho journeyman; verified Idaho journeyman licensing history.
- Education: None beyond journeyman completion.
- Age: Minimum 18.
- Exam: Required; administered by the State (PSI).
Exam Details
- Name: Idaho Master Electrician Exam
- Format: Closed book, multiple choice
- Questions: 100 · Duration: 5 hours · Passing Score: 75%
- Primary content sources: 2020 National Electrical Code; Idaho statutes and rules
- Topics: Advanced code application, design and planning, Idaho rules/laws
- Retake: May retake after 30 days if unsuccessful
Fees
- Application: $65
- Examination: $90
- Initial License: $70
- Renewal: $70
- Late Penalty: $35
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: Not required for the individual master license.
- Renewal: Annual; 24 hours of continuing education every 3 years (code, Idaho laws, plan review).
Source: DOPL Electrical Licensing
Idaho Electrical Contractor
Eligibility & Requirements
- Qualifying personnel: Must employ a licensed Master or Journeyman Electrician (documented employment or ownership by a qualified individual).
- Age: Minimum 18.
- Exam: Required; administered by PSI. Exam focuses on business law, Idaho rules, and contracting.
Exam Details
- Name: Idaho Electrical Contractor Examination
- Format: Closed book, multiple choice
- Questions: 80 · Duration: 4 hours · Passing Score: 75%
- Primary content sources: Idaho statutes, business law
- Topics: Business law, Idaho rules, contracting practices
- Retake: Retake after 30 days if unsuccessful
Fees
- Application: $125
- Examination: $125
- Initial License: $150
- Renewal: $150
- Late Penalty: $35
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: General liability required; minimum $300,000.
- Renewal: Annual; contractors must verify continuing education compliance for the employed master/journeyman.
Source: DOPL Electrical Licensing
Browse Idaho contractor license practice tests and study material to prepare for state electrical exams.
Plumbing Licenses in Idaho
Idaho regulates plumbing work with 3 license types:
Idaho Apprentice Plumber
Eligibility & Requirements
- Experience: 8,000 hours for advancement, documented via employer and approved apprenticeship program.
- Education: High school diploma/GED; enrollment in an approved apprenticeship is required.
- Age: Minimum 16.
- Exam: No state exam required at the apprentice level.
Fees
- Application: $30
- Initial License: $30
- Renewal: $30
- Late Penalty: $35
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: Not required at apprentice level.
- Renewal: Annual; no CE required at apprentice level.
Source: DOPL Plumbing Licensing
Idaho Journeyman Plumber
Eligibility & Requirements
- Experience: 8,000 hours documented; completion of an approved apprenticeship.
- Education: High school diploma/GED; apprenticeship complete.
- Age: Minimum 18.
- Exam: Required; administered by PSI/State.
Exam Details
- Name: Idaho Journeyman Plumber Exam
- Format: Closed book, multiple choice
- Questions: 90 · Duration: 5 hours · Passing Score: 75%
- Primary content sources: Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC); Idaho statutes
- Topic coverage: Plumbing code, safety, Idaho laws
- Retake: May retest after 30 days
Fees
- Application: $35
- Examination: $75
- Initial License: $45
- Renewal: $45
- Late Penalty: $35
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: Not required for the journeyman license.
- Renewal: Annual; 16 hours of CE every 3 years (plumbing code updates, Idaho statutes).
Source: DOPL Plumbing Licensing
Idaho Master Plumber
Eligibility & Requirements
- Experience: 4 years as an Idaho journeyman; verified by DOPL.
- Education: Completion of journeyman license requirements.
- Age: Minimum 18.
- Exam: Required; administered by PSI/State.
Exam Details
- Name: Idaho Master Plumber Exam
- Format: Closed book, multiple choice
- Questions: 100 · Duration: 5 hours · Passing Score: 75%
- Primary content sources: Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC); Idaho statutes
- Topic coverage: Advanced code, Idaho law, planning
- Retake: May retake after 30 days
Fees
- Application: $65
- Examination: $90
- Initial License: $70
- Renewal: $70
- Late Penalty: $35
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: Not required for the master license.
- Renewal: Annual; 16 hours of CE every 3 years (advanced plumbing code emphasis).
Source: DOPL Plumbing Licensing
Finishing your plumbing application? Strengthen your readiness with Idaho-focused resources: Browse Idaho contractor license practice tests and study material.
HVAC Licenses in Idaho
Idaho regulates HVAC contractors with 2 license types:
Idaho HVAC Apprentice
Eligibility & Requirements
- Experience: 8,000 hours for advancement; documented via employer experience and DOPL apprenticeship logs.
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent; participation in a state-approved apprenticeship.
- Age: Minimum 16.
- Exam: No state exam required at the apprentice level.
Fees
- Application: $30
- Initial License: $30
- Renewal: $30
- Late Penalty: $35
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: Not required at apprentice level.
- Renewal: Annual; no CE required at apprentice level.
Source: DOPL HVAC Licensing
Idaho HVAC Journeyman
Eligibility & Requirements
- Experience: 8,000 hours documented through a DOPL-approved apprenticeship.
- Education: High school diploma/GED; apprenticeship completion.
- Age: Minimum 18.
- Exam: Required; administered by PSI/State.
Exam Details
- Name: Idaho Journeyman HVAC Exam
- Format: Closed book, multiple choice
- Questions: 90 · Duration: 4 hours · Passing Score: 75%
- Primary content sources: International Mechanical Code (IMC); Idaho statutes
- Topic coverage: Mechanical code, safety, Idaho laws
- Retake: May retest after 30 days
Fees
- Application: $35
- Examination: $75
- Initial License: $45
- Renewal: $45
- Late Penalty: $35
Insurance & Renewal
- Insurance: Not required for the journeyman license.
- Renewal: Annual; 16 hours of CE every 3 years (mechanical code updates, Idaho statutes).
Source: DOPL HVAC Licensing
Studying for HVAC exams? These Idaho-specific resources can help: Browse Idaho contractor license practice tests and study material.
📍 Idaho Uses Some Local Licensing
Some contractor licensing in Idaho is handled by individual cities and counties rather than a state board. This means requirements may vary significantly depending on where you plan to work.
What this means for you:
- Each city or county sets its own contractor licensing requirements
- Major cities typically have formal licensing processes with exams and experience requirements
- Smaller jurisdictions may have simpler registration processes
- Trade licenses (electrician, plumber, HVAC) shown in other sections are typically state-regulated
Finding your requirements: Search for “[Your City/County] contractor license” or “[Your City/County] building department” to find local requirements.
General Contractor Licenses in Idaho
Idaho contractor licensing includes:
Idaho Registered Contractor
Registration Requirements
- Experience: No specific hours required; attest to business entity status and meet insurance requirements.
- Education: None specified.
- Age: Minimum 18.
- Exam: No state exam required for registration.
- Insurance: General liability minimum of $300,000 required.
Fees
- Application: $50
- Initial Registration: $50
- Renewal: $50
- Late Penalty: $35
Renewal
- Frequency: Annual
- Continuing Education: Not required
Source: DOPL Contractors Board
Local Licensing Requirements for General Contractors
Several Idaho cities require local contractor registration in addition to the statewide DOPL registration. Verify the city requirements before pulling permits.
Major Cities with Local Requirements:
- City of Idaho Falls: Requires ICC exam or reciprocal license (AZ, UT, OR, CA, FL) or qualifying degree; upload documentation in Cityworks, pay class-based fee, and carry liability insurance. Registration link
- City of Boise: Online contractor registration; provide business entity information and insurance, pay annual registration fee. Registration link
- City of Nampa: Submit insurance certificate, pay city registration fee, and apply via the city portal. Registration link
Note: Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always check with your local building department.
Working across multiple Idaho cities? Plan ahead and confirm both state and local registrations. For study resources tied to Idaho trade exams, browse Idaho contractor license practice tests and study material.
Roofing Licenses in Idaho
Roofing contractors in Idaho may be regulated at the state or local level. Contact your local building department for specific requirements. There is no stand-alone statewide roofing contractor license; many cities require local contractor registration and proof of insurance for roofing work. In all cases, maintain the state Idaho Registered Contractor registration if you contract with the public.
Local Licensing Requirements for Roofing
Major Cities with Local Requirements:
- City of Idaho Falls: Enforces local licensing for roofing; requires ICC exam or reciprocity (AZ, UT, OR, CA, FL) or qualifying degree, insurance verification, and city fee via Cityworks. Registration link
- City of Boise: Requires local contractor registration for roofing; online application, insurance, and annual fee. Registration link
- City of Nampa: Requires contractor registration for roofing and related specialties; submit insurance certificate and pay fee. Registration link
Note: Requirements are specific to each city and may change. Always verify with the local building department before bidding or pulling permits.
Specialty Trade Licenses in Idaho
Idaho regulates specialty trades with 2 license types:
Idaho Public Works Contractor
Eligibility & Requirements
- Experience: Not specified; must provide project and business history, references, and financial statements.
- Education: None specified.
- Exam: No state exam noted for public works contractor licensing.
- Insurance/Bonds: General liability (typically $300,000 minimum); bid and performance bonds may be required for state projects.
Fees
- Application: $150
- Initial License: $150
- Renewal: $150
- Late Penalty: $35
Renewal
- Frequency: Annual
- Continuing Education: None required
Idaho Fire Sprinkler Contractor
Eligibility & Requirements
- Authority: Licensed by the State Fire Marshal (Idaho Department of Insurance).
- Experience & Credentials: Requires documentation of prior trade/licensure history and NICET Level III or IV.
- Exam: Required; administered by the State Fire Marshal.
- Insurance: Liability coverage minimum of $1,000,000.
Exam Details
- Name: Fire Sprinkler Contractor Exam
- Format: Multiple choice, closed book
- Questions/Duration: Varies · Passing Score: 75%
- Primary content sources: NFPA 13; Idaho statutes
- Topic coverage: Fire code, NFPA standards, Idaho law
- Retake: May retest after 30 days
Fees
- Application: $100
- Examination: $50
- Initial License: $150
- Renewal: $150
- Late Penalty: $35
Renewal
- Frequency: Annual
- Continuing Education: 10 hours every 2 years (fire code and safety)
Local Licensing Requirements for Specialty/Subcontractors
Beyond state specialty licenses, many cities require local registration for subcontractor specialties (e.g., framing, concrete, drywall, telecom/low-voltage work). The exact list varies by jurisdiction and may exempt certain finish trades. Always verify before bidding.
Major Cities with Local Requirements:
- City of Idaho Falls: Regulates a range of subcontractor specialties (concrete, framing, drywall, telecommunications) with ICC or reciprocity, insurance, and class-based fees via Cityworks. Registration link
- City of Boise: Requires local contractor registration for general and many specialties; online process with insurance verification and annual fee. Registration link
- City of Nampa: Local contractor registration covers general and specialty work; submit insurance and pay fee via city portal. Registration link
Note: These requirements are jurisdiction-specific and separate from state licensing. Always check with the local building department where you plan to work.
Need Idaho exam prep across specialties? Browse Idaho contractor license practice tests and study material.
Application Process
- Review trade license or registration requirements on the DOPL website: Online application overview.
- Gather and verify experience and education records (apprenticeship logs, employer attestations, transcripts).
- Complete and submit the online application form through DOPL’s portal.
- Provide proof of insurance and business documents (entity registration, personal ID) as required.
- Schedule and take required examinations through PSI or the State/Fire Marshal, as applicable.
- Pay all application and examination fees.
- Allow time for DOPL review, approval, and license issuance.
Timeline: 1–3 weeks for most registrations and licenses after submitting complete documents; exam scheduling can add additional time. For fastest processing, submit all documents electronically.
Required Documents
- Proof of business entity or government-issued personal ID
- Liability insurance certificate (commonly $300,000 minimum for contractor-level registrations; $1,000,000 for fire sprinkler)
- Experience verification and apprenticeship records as applicable
- Educational transcripts or program completion certificates
- Proof of passing exam where required (PSI or State/Fire Marshal)
Reciprocity
Idaho has reciprocity with: Utah, Arizona, Oregon, California, Florida. To qualify, you generally need an active license in good standing in a reciprocal state and must submit reciprocity paperwork to DOPL. Reciprocity may not cover all license types; trade boards review exam waivers case-by-case. City-level reciprocity (e.g., Idaho Falls) typically involves uploading proof of your active license for review.
Preparing for a reciprocal or local competency review? Browse Idaho contractor license practice tests and study material.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a contractor license in Idaho?
Most registrations and licenses process in about 1–3 weeks after you submit a complete application. Scheduling and taking required exams can add time, particularly during peak testing periods.
Can I transfer my license from another state to Idaho?
Idaho offers reciprocity with Utah, Arizona, Oregon, California, and Florida. You must hold an active license in good standing and submit reciprocity paperwork to DOPL. Not all license types are covered; exam waivers are reviewed by the relevant board. Some cities, like Idaho Falls, also recognize reciprocity for local registration.
What happens if I fail the exam?
Most Idaho trade exams allow a retake after 30 days. Check your PSI candidate information or the State Fire Marshal (for fire sprinkler) for exact retake procedures and fees.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, contractor-level registrations typically require general liability insurance. Minimums include $300,000 for Idaho Registered Contractor and Idaho Electrical Contractor, and $1,000,000 for Fire Sprinkler Contractor. Journeyman and master trade licenses generally do not require insurance, but your employer or local jurisdiction may require coverage.
How do I renew my license?
Most licenses renew annually. CE requirements vary: electrical journeyman/master require 24 hours every 3 years; plumbing and HVAC journeyman require 16 hours every 3 years; apprentices have no CE; fire sprinkler contractors need 10 hours every 2 years. Verify with the applicable board before your renewal window.
What if my city has different requirements than what’s shown here?
Local registration is common for general contractors, roofing, and specialties. The examples here are from Idaho Falls, Boise, and Nampa. Always verify with your city/county building department, as local rules control permit issuance within that jurisdiction.
Where can I find practice tests for Idaho exams?
We offer comprehensive PDF practice tests for Idaho trade exams. Each typically includes 1,500–2,500 questions, precise answer keys, and reference locators showing exact code sections. Study offline at your own pace with no time or use limits. Browse Idaho contractor practice tests.
Idaho · Practice tests
Idaho contractor license practice tests
The Idaho practice tests we publish today: comprehensive PDF guides, typically 1,500 to 2,500 questions each, with full answer keys and reference locators to the exact code sections. We add new tests regularly, so if your license isn’t listed here, contact us and we’ll build it.
- Business, Law, and Project Management (NASCLA) Reference Practice Test
- Installing Hardwood Flooring NOFMA - Reference Practice Test
- National Electrical Code (NEC) 2017 Practice Test
Official Sources & References
Official Sources:
- Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (Contractors Board)
https://dopl.idaho.gov/con/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2025-11-07 - Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (Electrical Licensing)
https://dopl.idaho.gov/ele/ele-licensing/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2025-11-07 - Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (Plumbing Licensing)
https://dopl.idaho.gov/plb/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2025-11-07 - Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (HVAC Licensing)
https://dopl.idaho.gov/hvac/hvac/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2025-11-07 - Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (Public Works Contractor Licensing)
https://dopl.idaho.gov/pwc/pwc-licensing/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2025-11-07 - Idaho Department of Insurance, State Fire Marshal (Fire Sprinkler Contractor Licensing)
https://doi.idaho.gov/sfm/sprinkler/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2025-11-07 - City of Idaho Falls Contractor Licensing
https://www.idahofallsidaho.gov/1366/Contractor-Licensing
City Building Department | Accessed: 2025-11-07 - City of Boise Contractor Registration
https://www.cityofboise.org/departments/planning-and-development-services/permitting-licensing/
City Building Department | Accessed: 2025-11-07 - City of Nampa Building Safety
https://www.cityofnampa.us/163/Building-Safety-Code
City Building Department | Accessed: 2025-11-07
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Information Currency: This guide reflects licensing information as available in 2025. Licensing requirements are subject to change without notice. Always verify current requirements with official sources.
Official Source: For current information, contact Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (Contractors Board):
- Website: https://dopl.idaho.gov/con/
- Phone: 208-334-3233
No Legal Advice: This guide provides general information only. Consult with the licensing board or a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.
Local Requirements: Some licensing in Idaho is handled at the city or county level. Always verify requirements with your local building department.