How to Become a General Building Contractor

If you are interested in becoming a general contractor, you will find that there will be plenty of work to keep you busy. However, becoming a contractor is not just as simple as showing up at a job site. There are requirements you will need to fulfill before you can begin.

1. Call your state Department of Labor to find out what the exact laws and requirements are in your state that deal with becoming a contractor. Because each state is different, you will need a firm grasp on what steps you will need to take as you begin the process.


2. Hire an attorney. A lawyer can help your register your corporation with the state. They can also give you advice as to whether you should incorporate your business or not. Although most states do not require incorporation, it is a wise course of action to take. 


3. Apply for your vendor’s license from the county you will base your operations in. This license will allow you to conduct business and collect taxes on behalf of the government. Without it, you will be working “under the table”, which is a euphemism for operating illegally. 


4. Apply for your general contractor’s license with your state. The state will have several requirements that they will want you to fulfill. You will most likely need to be at least 18 years of age. You will also need a certain amount of credits from an accredited university. Once you fulfill all of the requirements and pay all of the fees, you will receive your general contractor’s license.