Do you run a small business or have an interest in becoming a general contractor? Getting your Utah general contractor’s license can seem like a daunting task, but in reality, it’s not that hard. All you need to start is the following: a few hundred dollars, sometimes, and knowledge of how to obtain your contractors license. This article will give you the information you need to go from zero to a contractor in no time.
Easy Steps to Obtain General Contractors License Utah
1. Make Sure You’re Eligible
Before getting your contractor’s license, you will need to make sure you are eligible to get one. According to the state’s Construction Contractor Licensing Act, all applicants must be 18. You must also have at least $30,000 in assets and a net worth of at least $50,000. In addition, the Department of Commerce recommends that you have 2 years of experience working as a carpenter or builder.
2. Create a Business Plan
Before obtaining your contractors’ license, ensure you know what you plan to do with it. Many people get their contractor’s license without having a clear vision of what they will do with it. For example, you don’t want to get a contractor’s license to earn enough money to pay your monthly bills. This can lead to you not creating enough job opportunities, and it could also cause you to lose the license. Therefore, it’s important that you decide what kind of business you want; otherwise, obtaining a contractor’s license will prove to be arduous.
3. Filing Your Forms
After creating your business plan, the next step is filing the necessary forms. These forms are as follows:
- The application form.
- The $150 application fee.
- The license transfer form (if you have previous experience).
- Your resume.
Don’t forget to submit a copy of your social security card, birth certificate, and proof of your previous employment! Keep in mind that all these forms need to be notarized.
4. Passing the Written Test
After filing all the required forms, you can choose between taking a math test or attending an 8-hour training class. The math test consists of your being given 25 questions on topics like physics, building codes, and graphic arts. You will have three hours to complete the test and must answer at least 20 questions correctly to pass.
To attend the 8-hour training class, you will need to contact one of the many providers in Utah. The Department of Commerce has created a class to teach you about getting a contractor’s license. The 8-hour training will cover everything from calculating useful formulas to signing contracts.
The training is at a designated facility, so show up on time. You can expect things to get very crowded in the class without an appointment. Even so, this is the best way for you to get trained by someone who knows what they are talking about. You will have an opportunity to ask questions during and after the class; the trainer is even available after your session for additional help.
5. Passing the Exam
In order to pass the written, you need to answer 30 questions correctly. In addition, you will need to provide a site plan and an inspection checklist containing all drawings, timbers, and materials items. You will also have 10 questions on the most common licenses, such as plumbing and electrical. The number of questions increases every time you take your exam, so make sure you study for all the ones given to you!
6. Getting Your License
With all the prerequisites completed, you can now sit down and email your application to the Department of Commerce. The application process requires a lot of paperwork, so make sure that everything is completed in order. Don’t worry; these are standard steps for obtaining a general contractor’s license. After receiving the application, the Department of Commerce will email you your contractor license. It should take about two weeks for you to get your new license.
