How to get a contractor license in Connecticut
The short version: 1) Apply online 2) Insurance. (source: DCP: Home Improvement Contractor Application (opens in a new tab), source: CGS Chapter 400: Home Improvement Act (opens in a new tab))
Check a license on the DCP website (official site, opens in a new tab)
How: Search the contractor's name or registration number on eLicense and check the registration is active. (source: DCP: Home Improvement for Consumers (opens in a new tab))
Checked against official Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection sources. See sources.
Step by step
- Apply online Apply online as an individual or as the LLC or corporation you contract under. (source: DCP: Home Improvement Contractor Application (opens in a new tab))
- Insurance Carry at least $20,000 general liability ($1M for underground oil tank removal). (source: DCP: Home Improvement Contractor Application (opens in a new tab), source: CGS Chapter 400: Home Improvement Act (opens in a new tab))
The exam
No exam is required. (source: CGS Chapter 400: Home Improvement Act (opens in a new tab))
- Radon contractors need NRSB or NEHA certification. (source: CGS Chapter 400: Home Improvement Act (opens in a new tab))
Costs and fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Home Improvement Contractor registration $120 fee plus the $100 Guaranty Fund fee. Non-refundable. | $220 (source: DCP: Home Improvement Contractor Application (opens in a new tab), source: CGS Chapter 400: Home Improvement Act (opens in a new tab)) |
Fees are set by the board and can change. Check the official fee page before you pay.
Bonds and insurance
Bond: Not required. DCP may require a $15,000 bond as a condition of registration. (source: CGS Chapter 400: Home Improvement Act (opens in a new tab))
- Workers' comp: As required by law
- General liability: At least $20,000; $1M for underground oil tank removal
(source: DCP: Home Improvement Contractor Application (opens in a new tab), source: CGS Chapter 400: Home Improvement Act (opens in a new tab))
Sources and last verified
Last verified: . Next check due: . Every fact on this page links to one of these official pages.
- DCP: Home Improvement for Consumers (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
- DCP: Home Improvement Contractor Application (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
- DCP: Home Improvement Guaranty Fund (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
- CGS Chapter 400: Home Improvement Act (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
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