Contractors in Rhode Island, including general contractors, specialty contractors (electricians, plumbers, roofers), and non-resident contractors, must follow a specific process to obtain their licenses.

In Rhode Island, contractor licenses are managed by the Rhode Island Contractors’ Registration and Licensing Board (CRLB), which oversees the registration of contractors working in the state. Below are the key contact details:

Rhode Island Contractors’ Registration and Licensing Board (CRLB)

Web: https://crb.ri.gov

Alternate Phone Number: 512-463-6599 (For calls outside Texas)

Phone: (401) 889-5530

Alternate Phone Number: 512-463-6599 (For calls outside Texas)

Address:
Main Office: 560 Jefferson Blvd., Warwick, RI 02886

For more information, visit: https://crb.ri.gov

Licensing Process in Rhode Island

Determine License Type

Contractors must identify the specific type of license they need. General contractors and specialty contractors (like electrical and plumbing) have different requirements. In Rhode Island, contractors must choose the appropriate type of license based on the scope of their work. The following are the primary contractor licenses available:

Underground Utility Contractor License: This license permits contractors to install, repair, alter, or replace sewer lines, water lines, storm drainage lines, and other related services.
Contractor Registration: This registration allows contractors to work on commercial or residential construction, as well as alterations or repairs.

Out-of-State Contractors

Out-of-state contractors can apply for either an Underground Utility Contractor License or Contractor Registration by appointing an agent of service in Rhode Island and meeting the same application requirements as in-state contractors.

Complete Registration Form

Submit an application to the Rhode Island Contractors’ Registration and Licensing Board. Forms can be downloaded from the CRLB website.

Provide Proof of Insurance

Contractors must provide proof of general liability insurance to cover potential damages during their work. If you have employees, you will also need workers’ compensation insurance.

Submit Application Fees

Pay the required application fees. Fees will vary based on the type of license. Contact the CRLB for specific pricing information.

Pass Exams (If Applicable)

Specialty contractors, such as electricians or plumbers, may need to pass trade-specific exams to be licensed in Rhode Island.

Receive License and Registration

Once approved, the CRLB will issue your license, allowing you to operate legally as a contractor in the state.

Insurance and Bonding Requirements

All contractors in Rhode Island must meet certain insurance requirements:

General Liability

Contractors must carry general liability insurance with coverage typically ranging from $500,000 to $1 million, depending on the scope of the work.

Workers’ Comp

If you employ workers, you must provide proof of workers’ compensation insurance to cover any job-related injuries.

See the Official Document:

Surety Bonds

For some projects, contractors may also be required to post a surety bond to ensure their contractual obligations are met. Bond amounts can vary depending on the project.

State-Specific Particularities

Non-Resident Contractor License: If you are a contractor from another state working in Rhode Island, you must apply for a Non-Resident Contractor License.
Statewide Licensing for Electricians and Plumbers: Electricians and plumbers are required to obtain statewide licenses from the appropriate licensing boards in Rhode Island. These contractors are subject to exams and continuing education requirements.

Additional Contractor Licenses in Rhode Island

Rhode Island offers various specialized contractor licenses depending on the type of work you plan to perform. Below are some specific licenses available in the state:

Home Inspector and Associate Home Inspector License

Contractors who wish to inspect homes for real estate transactions must obtain a Home Inspector License or an Associate Home Inspector License. To apply:

Home Inspector License: Requires a certain number of inspections under the supervision of a licensed home inspector, completion of relevant courses, and passing a licensing exam.
Associate Home Inspector License: For those who have less experience but are working under a licensed home inspector.

For more information, visit the Rhode Island Contractor’s Registration and Licensing Board website here.

Commercial Roofing License

For those engaged in roofing projects on commercial buildings, a Commercial Roofing License is required. This license allows contractors to perform roofing installations, repairs, and alterations on commercial structures.

Steps to apply include:

Completing the necessary application form.
Providing proof of experience and required insurance.

You can find application details here.

Water Filtration, Well Drilling, and Pump Installer License

For contractors working in water filtration, well drilling, or pump installation, a specialized license is necessary. The Water Filtration, Well Drilling, and Pump Installer License allows professionals to install and maintain water systems and wells.

License renewal details and requirements, such as continuing education and insurance, can be found here.

For more details on obtaining your contractor’s license in Rhode Island, visit the Contractors Liability website to learn how we can help you meet your insurance and bonding needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

These are common questions about General Contractor License in Rhode Island.

The type of license you need depends on the type of work you plan to perform. Common licenses include the Underground Utility Contractor License (for sewer, water, and drainage lines) and Contractor Registration (for general commercial or home construction, alteration, or repairs).

Out-of-state contractors must fulfill the same application requirements as in-state contractors, including assigning an agent of service in Rhode Island and completing the relevant license application for the work they plan to perform.

Yes, Rhode Island requires home inspectors to obtain either a Home Inspector License or an Associate Home Inspector License depending on their experience and qualifications. Applications can be found through the Rhode Island Contractor’s Registration and Licensing Board.

To obtain a Commercial Roofing License, you must complete the application, provide proof of experience, and submit the necessary insurance details. More information is available on the CRB website.

Yes, contractors working in water filtration, well drilling, or pump installation must obtain a Water Filtration, Well Drilling, and Pump Installer License. Details on the renewal process and requirements can be found on the CRB website.