How to get a contractor license in Rhode Island
The short version: 1) Course 2) Insurance 3) Agent. (source: CRLB: Apply (opens in a new tab), source: CRLB FAQs (opens in a new tab))
Check a license on the CRLB website (official site, opens in a new tab)
How: Search CRLB's registrants and licensees by name or number and check the registration is current. (source: CRLB FAQs (opens in a new tab))
Checked against official Rhode Island Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board sources. See sources.
Step by step
- Course Complete a state-approved 5-hour pre-registration course (exemption if working only on commercial jobs). (source: CRLB: Apply (opens in a new tab))
- Insurance File a $500,000 liability certificate and workers' comp certificate naming CRLB as holder. (source: CRLB FAQs (opens in a new tab))
- Agent Out-of-state applicants need a registered Agent of Service in Rhode Island. (source: CRLB: Apply (opens in a new tab))
Costs and fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Registration $50 late fee if expired. | $150 (source: CRLB: Apply (opens in a new tab), source: CRLB: Renew (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
- Workers' comp: Certificate naming CRLB
- General liability: $500,000, CRLB as certificate holder
Sources and last verified
Last verified: . Next check due: . Every fact on this page links to one of these official pages.
- CRLB: General Contractor Registration (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
- CRLB: Apply (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
- CRLB: Renew (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
- CRLB FAQs (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
Spot something out of date? Email [email protected].