Do I need to register in Washington?
Anyone paid to do construction, remodeling or repair work on property in Washington must register as a contractor with the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) before starting. That includes handymen, painters, roofers, landscapers who build things, and remodelers.
Washington's general contractor registration has no trade exam, which surprises people moving from Oregon or California. What it does require is a bond, insurance and an active state business license.
| Work | Who handles it | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General contracting, remodeling, multi-trade work | L&I general contractor registration | $30,000 bond |
| One trade (roofing, painting, flooring, etc.) | L&I specialty contractor registration | $15,000 bond |
| Electrical | L&I electrical contractor license and individual electrician certificate | Separate program with its own rules |
| Plumbing | L&I plumber certification | Individuals must be certified |
| House cleaning | No trade registration | State business license through the Business Licensing Service |
How to register (the short version)
- Get your Washington business license (UBI number) through the state Business Licensing Service.
- Choose general or specialty registration.
- Buy your surety bond. Since July 1, 2024 the bond is $30,000 for general contractors and $15,000 for specialty contractors, up from $12,000 and $6,000.
- Get general liability insurance and send proof to L&I.
- Set up workers' comp. Washington is a state-fund state: if you have employees, coverage comes through L&I, not a private insurer. Solo owners with no employees certify that status.
- Apply and pay the fee with L&I.
Your registration number must appear on ads, business cards, bids and vehicles.
Electricians and plumbers
Electrical work is its own L&I program: individuals hold electrician certificates, and the business needs an electrical contractor license with a qualified administrator or master electrician. Plumbers must hold an L&I plumber certificate. Start on L&I's trades and licensing pages.
How to verify a contractor in Washington (for customers)
Use L&I's Verify a Contractor tool. Check that the registration is active, the bond is current, and the business is in good standing for workers' comp. A lapse in any of these is a red flag. The tool also shows lawsuits against the bond and safety violations.
Next: our 10 checks before you hire.
Common questions
Is there a contractor exam in Washington?
Not for general or specialty contractor registration. Electricians and plumbers have their own certification requirements.
How much is the Washington contractor bond in 2026?
$30,000 for general contractors and $15,000 for specialty contractors, the amounts in effect since July 1, 2024.
Do I need workers comp as a solo contractor in Washington?
Not if you have no employees, but you must certify that at registration. Once you hire, you must get coverage through L&I.
How do I check a Washington contractor?
Search L&I Verify a Contractor at secure.lni.wa.gov/verify for registration, bond, insurance and workers comp status.
Rules, fees and platform policies change. Confirm details with the official agency or provider before you rely on them.