How to get a contractor license in West Virginia
The short version: 1) Confirm classification 2) Register the business 3) Apply. (source: WVCLB: Apply for License (opens in a new tab))
Check a license on the WVCLB website (official site, opens in a new tab)
How: Use the WV Contractor Licensing Board license search, then check the license is active and covers the work. (source: WV Contractor Licensing Board: Verify a License (opens in a new tab))
Checked against official West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board sources. See sources.
Step by step
- Confirm classification Email your scope of work to [email protected] to confirm your classification. (source: WVCLB: Apply for License (opens in a new tab))
- Register the business Get a WV business tax number and register with the Secretary of State. (source: WVCLB: Apply for License (opens in a new tab))
- Apply Pass the exams, file proof of insurance and a wage bond affidavit, and apply online. (source: WVCLB: Apply for License (opens in a new tab))
The exam
An exam is required. Exams are run by PROV. (source: WVCLB: Apply for License (opens in a new tab), source: WVCLB exam bulletin (opens in a new tab))
- Contractor Licensing Act exam
- Trade exam (where required)
Costs and fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam (each) | $59.95 (source: WVCLB exam bulletin (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: Workers' comp and unemployment compensation for WV employees
- General liability: Required
Sources and last verified
Last verified: . Next check due: . Every fact on this page links to one of these official pages.
- W. Va. Code 30-42-3 (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
- W. Va. Code 30-42-6 (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
- WVCLB: Apply for License (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
- WVCLB exam bulletin (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
- WV Contractor Licensing Board: Verify a License (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
Spot something out of date? Email [email protected].