Missouri

Why You Need A

Contractor’s License

We also want to mention that clients are less likely to do business with you if you don’t possess a license. That’s because it provides you with legal and financial protections that will ultimately benefit you, your employees, and your clients. Pursuing your licensure doesn’t need to be a complicated process. Here are some of the key benefits of having a license:

• Allows you to take on profitable jobs
• Gives you greater credibility, which in turn will attract more clients and partnerships
• Makes your business and brand more marketable
• Gives you a competitive edge against other contractors
• Protects your business from any potential liability disasters

General

Requirements

Before visiting your local department that oversees the process, you will need to register your business with the Missouri Secretary of State’s office and obtain a tax ID number and register it with the state. You may also need to apply for a business license.

To qualify for a license in some of the major municipalities, you will likely meet the following requirements:

• A completed and notarized application form.
• Proof that you’re at least 21 years old.
• A high school diploma or GED.
• Confirmation of your skills and experience.
• Exam results from a recognized examination agency.
• A certificate showing you have general liability coverage with a minimum of $1,000,000 per occurrence.
• A cash deposit (depending on which license you’re applying for).
• A $55 nonrefundable application fee.

Again, these requirements will vary slightly depending on where you live in the state. For example, in St. Louis, you will also need to obtain clearance from the Collector of Revenue’s Office as well as an Occupancy Permit from the Building Division.