How to get a contractor license in Ohio
The short version: 1) Check you qualify 2) Apply to test 3) Pass the exam 4) Get the license. (source: OCILB Examination Application (opens in a new tab))
Check a license on the OCILB website (official site, opens in a new tab)
How: Choose the OCILB license type (EL, HV, HY, PL or RE), then search by credential number or name. (source: Ohio eLicense lookup (opens in a new tab))
Checked against official Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board sources. See sources.
Step by step
Experience: 5 years. At least 5 years as a tradesperson in the licensed trade immediately before applying. (source: OCILB Examination Application (opens in a new tab))
- Check you qualify Be 18 or older, a U.S. citizen or legal alien, and have at least 5 years in the trade right before applying (or qualify as an Ohio engineer or government inspector). (source: OCILB Examination Application (opens in a new tab))
- Apply to test Send the OCILB exam application with 5 years of tax documents. (source: OCILB Examination Application (opens in a new tab))
- Pass the exam Pass both sections of the exam. (source: OCILB Examination Application (opens in a new tab))
- Get the license Send exam results, a $25 check and proof of at least $500,000 liability insurance. (source: OCILB Examination Application (opens in a new tab))
The exam
An exam is required. (source: OCILB Examination Application (opens in a new tab))
- Two exam sections (pass both)
Costs and fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam application fee Paid with the testing application. Check payable to "Treasurer, State of Ohio". | $25 (source: OCILB Examination Application (opens in a new tab)) |
| State license after passing the exam Check payable to "Treasurer, State of Ohio", sent with exam results and proof of insurance. | $25 (source: OCILB Examination Application (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
- General liability: At least $500,000 contractor liability insurance.
The license and insurance must be assigned to a contracting company. (source: OCILB Examination Application (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.
- OCILB Examination Application (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
- Ohio eLicense lookup (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
- Ohio Revised Code 4740.13 (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
- Ohio Revised Code 4740.99 (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
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