General Requirements ForBecoming A Licensed Contractor In Arkansas
General
Requirements
Commercial
Contractor’s License
We also want to discuss how the state of Arkansas defines a “project.” A project encompasses a single contract and dividing up a project so that it falls under the $50,000 threshold is illegal. If you plan on bidding for projects, then you’ll need a commercial contractor’s license. This will allow you to get work immediately and avoid any legal obstacles in getting underway. We recommend that you take the following steps to obtain your license:
- Fill out the Arkansas Commercial New Application Form
- Pay the $100 fee to submit the application along with providing three professional references
- Take the Arkansas Business and Law exam and submit your test scores
- Provide proof of a fully executed $10,000 Contractor’s Bond
- Provide additional financial details
Residential
Contractor’s License:
Any project that exceeds $2,000 will require a Residential Contractor’s License. This includes the cost of labor, materials, and the prices of a subcontractor. When applying for your license, here are the steps that you need to follow:
- Fill out the Arkansas Residential Builder New Application Form
- Pay the $100 fee to submit the application along with three professional references
- Take the Arkansas Business and Law exam and submit your scores
- Provide documentation outlining your previous year of business
Other
Licenses
Light Building Commercial Classification: Under this specific classification, the contractor can perform work on any commercial project that does not exceed $500,000 in labor and material costs. Additionally, the building cannot exceed two stories in height. This particular license will also allow you to work on residential properties. The requirements for this license are the same as getting a general commercial license.
Home Improvement License: This is a specific type of residential license that you will need if you plan on undergoing remodels or providing repair services. You only need this license if the project exceeds $2,000.
General Contractor
Licensing Exams
To register for the exam and complete it, you will need to undergo the following procedures:
- Visit the website for Prometric to sign up for the closest in-person exam (you can also call them at 1-888-763-0131)
- Make sure you are signing up for the Business and Law exam (AR04 Program name)
- Use Exam Code 100
- Determine the closest testing center
- Pay for the exam registration. You can pay with your debit or credit card, or you can write a check. The exam fee is $80.
If you have any questions, you are always encouraged to contact the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board. You can fax them your test results at 501-372-2247.