Minnesota Contractor Licenses: Updated Requirements Guide

Minnesota regulates contractors through a combination of state-issued licenses and select city-issued trade licenses. Most core trades — electrical, plumbing, residential building and remodeling, residential roofing, boilers, and elevators — are licensed or registered at the state level by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) or the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). Certain mechanical and specialty activities may also require a municipal business or trade license, most notably in Minneapolis and Saint Paul.

To make planning easier, this guide separates statewide credentials (covered next) from local requirements (organized by trade later in the article). We highlight several representative licenses and authorities for Minnesota below; this guide is updated periodically as additional jurisdictions are researched or requested.

Use the Quick Navigation to jump straight to your trade. Each license section summarizes authority contacts, eligibility, exams, fees, insurance, and renewal so you can move from planning to application with confidence.

Quick Navigation

Overview of Minnesota Contractor Licensing

The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) administers statewide licensing and registration for electricians and electrical contractors, plumbers and plumbing contractors, boiler operating engineers, elevator constructors and elevator contractors, and residential building contractors, remodelers, and roofers. DLI also manages the statewide mechanical contractor bond registration that applies to gas, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, fuel‑burning, and refrigeration work. Specialized public health and well construction activities — including asbestos abatement contractors, lead firms, and well contractors — are licensed by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).

In addition to state credentials, certain cities issue local trade or business licenses that supplement state requirements. Examples include Minneapolis HVAC Class A/B and gas fitter contractor licenses, and Saint Paul’s Plumbing/Gasfitter Business Trade License. This dual structure means contractors often maintain a state license or bond alongside municipal credentials where they do business.

The Minnesota Office of the Revisor of Statutes publishes binding statutes and rules governing these licenses, including chapters 326B (trade licensing and residential contractors), 299M (fire protection contractors), and 4725 (wells). Always cross‑check current requirements with the cited state or city pages before applying.

Primary Licensing Authority

Multiple Authorities – See research notes

Verified local jurisdictions:

Browse all Minnesota contractor license practice tests →

State-Level Licenses in Minnesota

State-level licensing in Minnesota refers to licenses or registrations issued by a state agency under uniform statewide standards. DLI oversees electrical, plumbing, boiler operating engineer, elevator, and residential contractor/roofer credentials, while MDH licenses asbestos abatement contractors, lead firms, and well contractors. The sections below summarize each trade’s state credentials, including exams, fees, insurance, and renewals.

Trades with state credentials include: Electrician, Plumbing, HVAC (mechanical contractor bond and boiler operator), General Contractor (residential building and remodeler), Roofing (residential roofer), and multiple Specialty categories (asbestos, lead, well, elevator, fire protection, and solar PV requirements).

State-Level Electrician Licenses

Journeyworker electrician license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Construction Codes and Licensing Division — Electrical licensing basics

Eligibility & Requirements: Minimum 48 months (8,000 hours) of acceptable electrical work experience, including at least 24 months wiring for and installing electrical wiring, apparatus and equipment. Up to 12 months credit may be granted for an approved two‑year post‑secondary electrical program. Minimum age 17.

Exam: Class A journeyworker electrician exam administered by DLI; ~80 questions, 5.5 hours, 70% passing. Content covers the National Electrical Code (NEC), Minnesota statutes and rules, and practical installation topics.

Fees: Application $50; Examination $50; Renewal $53; Late penalty $20.

Insurance: Not required for the personal license (contractor business insurance applies at the company level).

Renewal & CE: Every 2 years with 16 hours of CE (at least 12 hours NEC; balance may include Minnesota laws/rules and technical topics).

Exam Prep: PDF study guide with 1,500-2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline; no time or use limits. Minnesota Class A Journeyworker Electrician Practice Test.

Master electrician license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Construction Codes and Licensing Division — Electrical licensing basics

Eligibility & Requirements: One of the following: accredited electrical engineering degree; at least one year as a licensed journeyworker electrician; or five years planning, laying out, supervising, and installing electrical wiring/apparatus/equipment. Minimum age 18.

Exam: Class A master electrician exam administered by DLI; ~80 questions, 5.5 hours, 70% passing. Content based on Minnesota‑adopted NEC and Minnesota electrical statutes/rules.

Fees: Application $50; Examination $50; Renewal $93; Late penalty $40.

Insurance: Not required for the personal license (contractor business insurance applies at the company level).

Renewal & CE: Every 2 years with 16 hours of CE (at least 12 hours NEC; balance on Minnesota laws/rules and technical topics).

Exam Prep: PDF study guide with 1,500-2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline; no time or use limits. Minnesota Class A Master Electrician Practice Test.

Maintenance electrician license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Construction Codes and Licensing Division — Maintenance electrical licensing

Eligibility & Requirements: Minimum 48 months (8,000 hours) of electrical maintenance experience maintaining and repairing electrical wiring, apparatus, and equipment as defined in Minnesota Rules 3800.3500. Up to one year of experience credit may be allowed for an approved two‑year post‑secondary technical course in electrical maintenance. Minimum age 18.

Exam: DLI maintenance electrician exam; ~70 questions, 5.5 hours, 70% passing. Focus on maintenance scope under the Minnesota Electrical Act and NEC topics relevant to maintenance work.

Fees: Application $50; Examination $50; Renewal $53; Late penalty $20.

Insurance: Not required for the personal license.

Renewal & CE: Every 2 years with 16 hours of CE (12 hours NEC; 4 hours Minnesota laws/rules and related technical topics).

Exam Prep: PDF study guide with 1,500-2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline; no time or use limits. Minnesota Maintenance Electrician Practice Test.

Lineman license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Construction Codes and Licensing Division — Lineman licensing

Eligibility & Requirements: Minimum 48 months (8,000 hours) of qualifying line work constructing, installing, maintaining, and repairing utility transmission/distribution systems. Up to one year of experience credit may be allowed for an approved post‑secondary line‑work program. Minimum age 18.

Exam: DLI lineman exam; ~50 questions, 5.5 hours, 70% passing. Based on the National Electrical Safety Code and Minnesota statutes/rules governing line construction.

Fees: Application $50; Examination $50.

Renewal & CE: Every 2 years; no CE hours required under current DLI CE tables for linemen.

Electrical contractor license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Construction Codes and Licensing Division — Electrical contractor licensing basics

Eligibility & Requirements: Company must designate a responsible licensed individual holding an active master electrician license who is an owner, officer, member, or W‑2 managing employee engaged in the company’s electrical work. No separate contractor exam (qualification is through the master’s personal license).

Fees: Application $188; Initial license $188; Renewal $188; Late penalty $90.

Insurance: Public liability and property damage insurance (minimum $300,000 per occurrence) covering premises, operations, products, and completed operations; workers’ compensation if employees are present.

Renewal: Every 2 years; contractor renewals require updated insurance/bond and owner disclosure forms. CE attaches to personal electrician licenses.

State-Level Plumbing Licenses

Journeyworker plumber license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Plumbing Unit — Plumbing license basics

Eligibility & Requirements: At least four years (7,000 hours) of recorded practical plumbing experience as a DLI‑registered unlicensed plumber, completion of a DLI‑registered apprenticeship, or equivalent restricted/out‑of‑state experience. Minimum age 18.

Exam: DLI journeyworker exam; 5.5‑hour time limit. Applicants must wait 30 days before reapplying after a failed exam.

Fees: Application $50; Examination $50; Renewal $53; Late penalty $20.

Renewal & CE: Every 2 years (licenses expire Dec. 31 of odd‑numbered years) with 16 hours CE (at least 8 hours on the State Plumbing Code).

Master plumber license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Plumbing Unit — Master plumber licensing

Eligibility & Requirements: Minimum four years of practical plumbing experience or two years as a plumbing contractor, meeting hour distributions in Minnesota Rules 4716. Minimum age 18.

Exam: Held twice annually (March and September); written exam under Minnesota Rules 4716 with a 5.5‑hour time limit. Apply by posted deadlines (typically Feb 15/Aug 15).

Fees: Application $50; Examination $50.

Insurance: Maintain public liability insurance including products liability with at least $50,000 per person, $100,000 per occurrence, and $10,000 property damage during the license term.

Renewal & CE: Every 2 years (odd‑numbered years) with 16 hours CE including State Plumbing Code content.

Restricted journeyworker plumber license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Plumbing Unit — License types and credentials

Eligibility & Requirements: At least two years of practical plumbing experience under a restricted master plumber; limited to cities/towns under 5,000 population. Minimum age 18.

Exam: Administered by DLI; format parallels standard journeyworker exams.

Renewal & CE: Every 2 years with 16 hours CE (State Plumbing Code and approved topics). Restricted license holders cannot certify their own experience.

Plumbing contractor license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Plumbing Unit — Plumbing contractor licensing basics

Eligibility & Requirements: Business must designate a responsible master plumber (owner/officer/member/W‑2 employee actively engaged). No separate contractor exam.

Fees: Application $188; Initial license $188; Renewal $188; Late penalty $90.

Insurance & Bond: Public liability and property damage insurance plus a $25,000 plumbing contractor bond covering plumbing work statewide.

Renewal: Annual; CE attaches to personal master/journeyworker licenses. Contractor renewal requires maintaining bond and insurance.

Medical gas installer certification

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Plumbing Unit — Medical gas certification

Eligibility & Requirements: Active journeyworker or master plumber with ASSE 6010 training and NFPA 99C brazing qualification; current NITC medical gas installer certification. Minimum age 18.

Exam: Exam administered through NITC/ASSE programs; DLI registration verifies current certification (no separate DLI exam).

Fees: Application $48; Initial certification $48; Renewal $53; Late penalty $20.

Renewal & CE: Every 2 years with 4 hours CE on medical gas systems per NFPA 99 and Minnesota Statutes 326B.438.

Backflow prevention tester certification

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Plumbing Unit — Backflow prevention certification

Eligibility & Requirements: Current ASSE 5110 Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester certification (no plumbing license required). Completion of at least 16 contact hours of ASSE‑approved training and passage of the examination.

Exam: Included within ASSE 5110 certification by ASSE‑recognized providers; DLI issues a two‑year tester certificate upon proof of credentials.

Fees: Application/Initial $38; Renewal $38; Late penalty $15.

Renewal: Every 2 years; tester must maintain current ASSE 5110 certification (no separate DLI CE hours specified).

State-Level HVAC Licenses and Registrations

Mechanical contractor bond registration (G/HVACR work)

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry — Mechanical contractor bond

Scope: Businesses installing gas piping; heating, ventilation, cooling, air conditioning; fuel‑burning or refrigeration equipment must file a $25,000 mechanical contractor bond with DLI. No separate state HVAC trade license is issued.

Fees & Bond: Application/Initial $100; Renewal $100; Late penalty $50. Surety bond of $25,000 is required; general liability/workers’ compensation may be required by contracts/municipalities.

Renewal: Every 2 years; no state CE requirement for the bond registration. Local jurisdictions may impose additional requirements.

Boiler operating engineer license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Boiler and High Pressure Piping Unit — Boiler engineers

Eligibility & Requirements: Experience varies by class (special, second‑class, first‑class, chief), ranging up to five years (60 months) for chief engineer per Minn. Stat. 326B.972. No fixed education requirement; qualifying experience operating boilers of specified HP/pressure is required.

Exam: DLI exams with 2.5‑hour time limits; topics include boiler operation, safety, controls, and Minnesota statutes/rules. Application fee $50.

Fees: Application $50; Examination $50; Initial license $40; Renewal $60.

Renewal: Every 2 years; CE expectations are set by DLI’s boiler unit (refer to DLI for details by class).

State-Level General Contractor Licenses (Residential)

Residential building contractor license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry — Residential contractor licensing

Eligibility & Requirements: Entity must designate a qualifying person (owner/officer/member/partner/chief manager/managing employee) actively engaged in residential contracting. No minimum years required to sit the qualifying person (QB) exam.

Exam: DLI QB exam; 110 multiple‑choice questions, 5.5 hours, 70% passing. Coverage includes Minnesota Residential Building Code, business practices, contracts, liens, and consumer protection.

Fees: Application $180; Initial license $180; Renewal $180.

Insurance & Fund: Liability insurance of at least $300,000 per occurrence (including property damage) and compliance with workers’ compensation if employees are present; Contractor Recovery Fund surcharge based on gross receipts.

Renewal & CE: Annual (April 1 – March 31). Qualifying person must complete 14 hours of DLI‑approved CE.

Residential remodeler license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry — Residential contractor licensing

Eligibility & Requirements: Entity designates a qualifying person engaged in remodeling; practical experience is expected, but there’s no minimum experience to sit the qualifying person (QC) exam.

Exam: DLI QC exam; 110 multiple‑choice questions, 5.5 hours, 70% passing. Coverage parallels the builder exam but tailored to remodeling of existing dwellings.

Fees: Application $180; Initial license $180; Renewal $180.

Insurance & Fund: Liability insurance minimum $300,000 per occurrence; Contractor Recovery Fund surcharge based on gross receipts.

Renewal & CE: Annual (April 1 – March 31). Qualifying person completes 14 hours of CE.

State-Level Roofing Licenses

Residential roofer license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry — Roofer license

Eligibility & Requirements: Company designates a qualifying person; no prerequisite experience or education is required to take the qualifying roofer (QR) exam, though practical roofing experience is beneficial.

Exam: DLI QR exam; 110 multiple‑choice questions, 5.5 hours, 70% passing. Focus on roofing systems, code requirements, contracts, and consumer protection.

Fees: Application $50; Examination $50; Initial license $180; Renewal $185.

Insurance & Bond: Liability insurance of at least $300,000 per occurrence including $10,000 property damage; $15,000 residential roofer surety bond; workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance coverage or proof of exemption.

Renewal & CE: Every 2 years (April 1 – March 31) with 14 hours CE for the qualifying person.

State-Level Specialty Licenses

Asbestos contractor license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Health – Asbestos Program — Asbestos contractor licensing

Eligibility & Requirements: Company must designate a responsible individual who has completed Minnesota‑approved asbestos abatement contractor/site supervisor training and meets Minnesota Rules 4620.3700 experience criteria. Annual training refreshers are required.

Fees: Application/Initial $100; Renewal $100.

Insurance: Evidence of workers’ compensation or explanation of exemption; additional insurance may be required by MDH under asbestos rules.

Renewal & CE: Annual renewal; 8 hours of MDH‑approved refresher training each year.

Lead firm certification

Authority: Minnesota Department of Health – Lead Poisoning Prevention Program — Lead firm certification

Eligibility & Requirements: Firm must employ appropriately licensed/certified individuals (workers, supervisors, inspectors, risk assessors, designers, sampling technicians) and demonstrate capacity for abatement, interim controls, inspections, and risk assessments. Individual staff complete EPA/Minnesota‑approved lead training and exams.

Renewal: Typical EPA program cycle is every 3 years; confirm current cycle with MDH. Individual license holders must meet refresher training requirements.

Well contractor license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Health – Well Management Section — Well contractor licensing

Eligibility & Requirements: Four years of well drilling, sealing, and pump installation experience (each year with at least 10 constructed water‑supply wells and 1,000 hours of qualifying work). One year of formal education in well construction may substitute for one year of experience; specialized criteria exist for deep/multiple‑casing wells and groundwater heat pump systems.

Exam: After MDH qualification approval, pass a written exam covering Minn. Stat. 103I, Minn. R. 4725, and technical standards.

Fees & Insurance: Application/Initial $75; Renewal $250. Workers’ compensation (or explanation of exemption) and other insurance per MDH rules.

Renewal: Annual renewal; CE requirements vary by license type (consult MDH).

Elevator contractor license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Elevator Unit — Elevator contractor licensing

Eligibility & Requirements: Business must designate a responsible licensed individual (master elevator constructor or limited master) and maintain required insurance/bond. Proper registration with the Minnesota Secretary of State is required.

Fees: Application/Initial $180; Renewal $180; Late penalty $90.

Renewal: Every 2 years (licenses expire March 1 of even‑numbered years). CE attaches to personal elevator constructor licenses.

Journeyworker elevator constructor license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Elevator Unit — Elevator licensing

Eligibility & Requirements: Completion of a four‑year elevator mechanics apprenticeship registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, or at least 9,000 hours in five consecutive years working for a DLI‑licensed elevator contractor installing, maintaining, modernizing, testing, wiring, and repairing elevators.

Exam: DLI written journeyworker exam covering elevator code/technology and applicable NEC content.

Fees & Renewal: Renewal $35; Late penalty $15. Renew every 2 years with 16 hours CE (12 hours elevator code/technology and 4 hours NEC).

Exam Prep: PDF study guide with 1,500-2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline; no time or use limits. Minnesota Elevator Constructor Practice Test.

Master elevator constructor license

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Elevator Unit — Elevator licensing

Eligibility & Requirements: One year as a journeyworker elevator constructor or six years planning, laying out, supervising, and installing elevator apparatus/equipment and wiring.

Exam: DLI written master exam on advanced elevator code, design, supervision, and safety.

Renewal & CE: Every 2 years with 16 hours CE (same distribution as journeyworker elevator constructors).

Exam Prep: PDF study guide with 1,500-2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline; no time or use limits. Minnesota Elevator Master Electrician Practice Test.

Fire protection contractor license

Authority: Minnesota (per Minnesota Statutes Chapter 299M) — Fire protection contractors

Scope & Requirements: Contractors selling, designing, installing, modifying, altering, and inspecting fire protection systems or multipurpose potable water piping systems must be licensed annually under Chapter 299M. Licensed professional engineers competent in fire protection system design are exempt from contractor licensing under this statute.

Renewal: Annual; details such as fees and any CE or training requirements are established by the administering state authority referenced in statute.

Residential solar PV contractor requirement

Authority: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry — Solar installer licensing requirement

Scope & Requirements: Companies contracting with residential homeowners to install solar PV systems must hold a Residential Building Contractor or Residential Remodeler license and meet the qualifying person, insurance, and Contractor Recovery Fund requirements for those licenses. Electrical installation work must be performed by Minnesota‑licensed electrical contractors.

Exam & Renewal: No separate solar exam; qualifying person must pass the applicable RBC (QB) or Remodeler (QC) exam. Annual renewal with 14 hours CE for the qualifying person under the underlying residential license.

Electrician Licenses in Minnesota

Electrical work in Minnesota is primarily regulated at the state level by DLI (see State-Level Electrician Licenses above). Some municipalities may require local business registration or documentation when pulling permits. If you perform work within a city that issues trade cards or contractor business licenses for related scopes, confirm whether any local registration applies in addition to your state electrician or electrical contractor credentials.

Local Licensing Requirements

Major Cities with Local Requirements:

Note: Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm with your local building department before applying.

Plumbing Licenses in Minnesota

Plumbing licensing and contractor credentials are issued statewide by DLI (see State-Level Plumbing Licenses above). In some cities, business trade licenses or competency cards may also apply to plumbing and gas fitting work. If you work within municipal limits, verify whether any local business license is required in addition to the state plumbing contractor bond and responsible master plumber designation.

Local Licensing Requirements

Major Cities with Local Requirements:

Note: Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm with your local building department before applying.

HVAC Licenses in Minnesota

HVAC work in Minnesota requires a state mechanical contractor bond registration for entities performing gas, heating, ventilation, cooling, air conditioning, fuel‑burning, or refrigeration work. Certain cities, including Minneapolis, also license HVAC contractors locally. Confirm both your state bond registration and any city credential before bidding or permitting work.

Note: Some licenses in Minnesota are issued at the city or county level. Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Check with your local authority or contact us with questions.

Minneapolis HVAC Class A contractor license (Local Jurisdiction)

Authority: City of Minneapolis – Business Licenses & Consumer Services — HVAC Class A/B licensing

Eligibility & Requirements: Applicants must meet city requirements to install, fix, and clean air handling equipment and air distribution systems for HVAC. HVAC Class A requires holding the State of Minnesota $25,000 mechanical contractor bond. Minneapolis may require a separate competency card depending on scope.

Exam: City materials reference a competency card that may involve examination; specific format/provider not detailed in the cited materials.

Insurance & Bond: Surety bond (State of Minnesota $25,000 mechanical contractor bond for Class A) and any city‑required liability insurance per Minneapolis standards.

Renewal: Annual; city may update competency criteria by ordinance.

Contact City of Minneapolis – Business Licenses & Consumer Services to confirm current fees, insurance minimums, competency card requirements, and renewal details before applying.

📍 Minnesota Uses Local Licensing

Some contractor licensing in Minnesota is handled by individual cities and counties rather than a state board. As a result, application forms, insurance minimums, exams, and renewal cycles can vary from one jurisdiction to another.

What this means for you:

  • Contact the specific city or county where you will perform work to confirm current requirements.
  • Expect to maintain multiple licenses if you work across different municipalities.
  • Insurance certificates may need to name each city/county individually.
  • Renewal cycles and CE requirements vary — track each separately.

To prepare efficiently for any required local competency exams, use code-focused study materials matching the code editions used by your jurisdiction.

General Contractor Licenses in Minnesota

Minnesota licenses residential building contractors and residential remodelers at the state level through DLI (see State-Level General Contractor Licenses above). If you also operate in cities that require a local business license or registration to pull permits, verify those municipal steps before bidding.

Local Licensing Requirements

Major Cities with Local Requirements:

Note: Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm with your local building department before applying.

Roofing Licenses in Minnesota

Residential roofing contractors are licensed statewide by DLI (see State-Level Roofing Licenses above). Depending on where you work, a city may also require a local business license or permit registration prior to starting jobs within city limits.

Local Licensing Requirements

Major Cities with Local Requirements:

Note: Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm with your local building department before applying.

Specialty Trade Licenses in Minnesota

Specialty licensing for asbestos, lead, wells, elevators, fire protection, and solar PV contractor requirements appears in the State-Level Licenses section above. Some specialties are also licensed as business/trade licenses at the city level, particularly gas fitting and plumbing business credentials in Saint Paul and Minneapolis. Review the local entries below if you operate in those jurisdictions.

Note: Some licenses in Minnesota are issued at the city or county level. Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Check with your local authority or contact us with questions.

Saint Paul Plumbing/Gasfitter Business Trade License (Local Jurisdiction)

Authority: City of Saint Paul – Department of Safety & Inspections — Plumbing/Gasfitter Business Trade License

Eligibility & Requirements: Business must hold a current City of Saint Paul Certificate of Competency (Master Plumbing/Gasfitter), maintain required insurance, and file Plumbing Contractor and Mechanical bonds with DLI.

Exam: No separate business license exam; competency cards may have their own examination and experience process.

Fees: Application/Initial $188; Renewal $188 (licenses expire December 1).

Insurance: Certificate of insurance showing combined single limit of liability for bodily injury and property damage of $500,000 (or $500,000 BI and $200,000 PD). City of Saint Paul DSI listed as certificate holder; proof of workers’ compensation required.

Renewal: Annual; renewal is documentation‑based. CE applies to competency card holders, not the business license itself.

Minneapolis Gas Fitter contractor license (Local Jurisdiction)

Authority: City of Minneapolis – Business Licenses & Consumer Services — Gas fitter contractor licensing

Eligibility & Requirements: Applicant must meet city requirements for installing, repairing, and maintaining gas piping and equipment and submit appropriate surety bond documentation. A competency card may be required depending on scope.

Bond & Insurance: State of Minnesota $25,000 mechanical contractor bond (or other surety) plus any local insurance requirements specified by Minneapolis.

Renewal: Annual; competency card holders must comply with any city training or recertification requirements. Business license renewal focuses on maintaining bond and documentation.

Contact City of Minneapolis – Business Licenses & Consumer Services to confirm current fees, insurance minimums, competency card requirements, and renewal details before applying.

Application Process

  1. Determine whether the scope of work requires a state license (electrical, plumbing, mechanical bond, boiler, residential building contractor, remodeler, roofer, elevator, asbestos, lead firm, well contractor) or a local business/trade license (e.g., Minneapolis HVAC or gas fitter, Saint Paul Plumbing/Gasfitter).
  2. Form the business entity and register the business name or assumed name with the Minnesota Secretary of State when applying for business‑level licenses or registrations.
  3. Identify a qualifying person or responsible licensed individual holding the appropriate personal license (master electrician, master plumber, master elevator constructor, certified representative, etc.) where required.
  4. Gather required documentation, including disclosure of business owners, partners, officers and members; proof of public liability and property damage insurance; workers’ compensation compliance forms; and surety bonds in the required amounts for each trade.
  5. Apply for required personal license exams (journeyworker or master electrician, plumber, elevator constructor, boiler engineer, residential contractor, roofer) through DLI, pay exam fees, and schedule exams via iMS at approved testing locations.
  6. Use DLI’s iMS online licensing system to submit license applications or renewals for state licenses and registrations, uploading all required forms and paying applicable fees.
  7. For MDH‑regulated specialties (asbestos, lead, wells), submit qualification applications, take any required exams or training courses, and complete online licensing or certification forms through MDH systems.
  8. For city trade licenses (Minneapolis HVAC/gas fitter, Saint Paul Plumbing/Gasfitter), submit city license applications, competency card documentation, bonds and insurance directly to the municipal licensing departments.
  9. After approval, maintain licenses through timely renewal, continuing education, updated insurance and bond documents, and compliance with relevant Minnesota codes and statutes.

Timeline: Processing time varies by trade and agency; state applications submitted through DLI’s iMS system and MDH online portals are processed in the order received, and no uniform timeline was published in the cited sources.

Reciprocity

Available for electrical and plumbing personal licenses. Minnesota recognizes certain out‑of‑state licenses earned by examination, allowing applicants to obtain Minnesota licenses without retesting if conditions are met.

Electrical reciprocity (journeyworker): Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming.

Electrical reciprocity (master): Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska.

Plumbing reciprocity (journeyworker/master): North Dakota, South Dakota.

Typical conditions: Hold the license at least one year; current and in good standing; obtained by passing the issuing state’s exam; no failures of the same or greater Minnesota exam. Submit DLI’s reciprocity application with the $50 application/exam fee; upon approval, pay the Minnesota license fee. Reciprocity does not apply to business‑level contractor licenses (e.g., residential building contractor, remodeler, roofer, electrical or plumbing contractor).

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a contractor license in Minnesota?

Processing time depends on the trade and the agency (DLI or MDH). Applications filed through DLI’s iMS system and MDH online portals are handled in the order received; no single statewide timeline is published. Start early and submit complete documentation to avoid delays.

Can I transfer my license from another state to Minnesota?

Reciprocity is available for certain personal electrical and plumbing licenses. Electrical journeyworker reciprocity includes Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming; master electrician reciprocity includes Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska. Plumbing reciprocity (journeyworker/master) is available with North Dakota and South Dakota. You must have earned the out‑of‑state license by exam, held it at least one year, kept it in good standing, and not failed the comparable Minnesota exam. Submit DLI’s reciprocity application with the $50 fee; upon approval, pay the Minnesota license fee and meet ongoing CE and renewal requirements.

What happens if I fail the exam?

Exam retake policies are set by each program. As one example, journeyworker plumber applicants must wait 30 days before reapplying after a failed exam. Check the relevant DLI or MDH program page for current retake rules and any rescheduling fees.

Do I need insurance?

Yes. Minimums vary by license type. Examples include $300,000 per‑occurrence liability for residential building contractors, remodelers, and residential roofers (plus a $15,000 roofer bond), $300,000 per‑occurrence liability for electrical contractors, $50,000/$100,000/$10,000 liability minimums for master plumbers, and a $25,000 mechanical contractor bond for HVAC/mechanical work. Workers’ compensation is required when you have employees.

How do I renew my license?

Most personal trade licenses (electrician, plumber, elevator constructor, boiler) renew every 2 years with continuing education. Residential building contractor and remodeler licenses renew annually; residential roofer renews every 2 years. City trade and business licenses (e.g., Minneapolis, Saint Paul) set their own renewal cycles; track each credential separately.

What if my city has different requirements than what’s shown here?

Some contractor licensing in Minnesota varies by jurisdiction. The information shown reflects official sources for representative cities. Always verify requirements with your local building department, as local regulations and fee schedules control permit access and project compliance.

Where can I find practice tests for Minnesota exams?

We offer comprehensive PDF practice tests for Minnesota contractor license exams. Each test typically contains 1,500 to 2,500 code‑relevant questions with precise answer keys and reference locators showing exact code sections. Study offline at your own pace; no time or use limits. Browse Minnesota contractor practice tests.

Minnesota · Practice tests

Minnesota contractor license practice tests

The Minnesota 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.

Browse all Minnesota tests →

Related Official Resources

Official Sources for Further Details:

  1. Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Electrical licensing basics
    https://www.dli.mn.gov/workers/electrician-or-electrical-installer/electrical-licensing-basics
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  2. Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Electrical license examination guide
    http://www.dli.mn.gov/sites/default/files/pdf/LicensingExaminationGuide.pdf
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  3. Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Plumbing license basics
    https://www.dli.mn.gov/workers/plumber/plumbing-license-basics
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  4. Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Plumbing license types and credentials
    https://www.dli.mn.gov/business/plumbing-contractors/plumbing-license-types-and-credentials
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  5. Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Residential contractor licensing
    https://www.dli.mn.gov/business/residential-contractors/residential-contractor-licensing
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  6. Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Roofer license
    https://www.dli.mn.gov/business/residential-contractors/roofer-license
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  7. Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Mechanical contractor bond (G/HVACR work)
    https://mn.gov/elicense/a-z/?id=1083-231684
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  8. Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Elevator licensing
    https://www.dli.mn.gov/workers/elevator-constructor/elevator-licensing
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  9. Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Plumbing backflow prevention certification
    https://www.dli.mn.gov/workers/plumber/backflow-prevention-certification
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  10. Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Medical gas certification
    https://www.dli.mn.gov/workers/plumber/medical-gas-certification
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  11. Minnesota Department of Health – Asbestos contractor licensing
    https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/asbestos/prof/license.html
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  12. Minnesota Department of Health – Well and boring contractors
    https://mn.gov/elicense/a-z/?id=1083-412310
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  13. Minnesota Statutes – Chapter 326B (Trade Licensing and Residential Contractors)
    https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/326B/pdf
    State Statute | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  14. Minnesota Statutes – Chapter 299M (Fire Protection Contractor)
    https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/299M
    State Statute | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  15. City of Minneapolis – HVAC Class A or B contractor licensing
    https://www2.minneapolismn.gov/business-services/licenses-permits-inspections/business-licenses/contractors/trades/hvac-class-ab/
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  16. City of Saint Paul – Plumbing/Gasfitter Business Trade License
    https://www.stpaul.gov/departments/safety-inspections/building-and-construction/competency-cards-and-trade-worker-registration/gas-fitter-trade-license
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  17. Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Electrical license reciprocity
    https://www.dli.mn.gov/workers/electrician-or-electrical-installer/electrical-license-reciprocity
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-16
  18. Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Plumbing reciprocity
    https://www.dli.mn.gov/workers/plumber/plumbing-reciprocity
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-16

Important Disclaimer

Information Currency: This guide reflects licensing information as available in 2026. Licensing requirements are subject to change without notice. Always verify current requirements with official sources.

Official Source: For current information, contact Multiple Authorities – See research notes:

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 Minnesota is handled at the city or county level. Always verify requirements with your local building department.

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