The Fast Track to Contractor Registration
Your one stop solution to become a Registered Contractor in Washington
Start Your Contracting Business in Washington the Right Way
Becoming a licensed and registered contractor in Washington is an exciting step — but it can feel overwhelming when you’re just getting started. Between state requirements, paperwork, and making sure you have the right insurance in place, it’s easy to feel stuck before you even get to work.
That’s where we come in.
At Insurance Professionals Agency, our team's experience helping contractors get licensed spans over 16 years, and we’ve guided over 3,000 Washington contractors through the licensing process. We know exactly what the Department of Labor & Industries is looking for — and how to help you meet those requirements quickly and without the stress.
Get your Contractor License in 5 easy steps
Step 1: Get Your Bond & Insurance Quote
Getting your bond and insurance in place is the cornerstone of becoming a licensed contractor in Washington. When you call us, we can usually provide a same-day quote, giving you a clear picture of what you’ll need to budget to get licensed. You can get your quotes either online or by calling us at 360-800-6410.
Our experienced team goes beyond just quoting. We’ll consult with you on which trades typically have the lowest insurance expenses and the highest profit margins, helping you structure the services your company offers from the start. Then, as your business grows, we’ll create a roadmap for when and how to add higher-risk (and higher-insurance-cost) services down the road.
With over 15 years of experience and more than 3,000 Washington contractors guided through this process, we have proven game plans and strategies to fit any budget.
Cost of this step: $0
Click here to call for a Quote
or
Click here to get your quote online
For General Liability: Rates are determined by factors such as trade, revenue, payroll, and subcontractor expenses.
For Contractor License Bonds: Pricing varies by trade and credit history. We have markets available for all credit types.
With access to over 200 insurance and bond companies and more than 16 years of experience helping 3,000+ contractors register in Washington State, we can customize your coverage to fit your budget and keep you protected.
Step 2: Get your Washington State Business License
Every contractor needs a business license in Washington. This shows the state that your business is real and ready to work.
If you’re not sure what type of business is best for you, our team can explain the pros and cons in simple terms. We can also connect you with resources and referrals so you can make the right choice.
Depending on the type of business you pick, this step could be one part or two parts:
- If your business will be a Corporation, Partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC), or Limited Liability Partnership (LLP):
- First, register your business with the Secretary of State click here.
- After that, register your business with the Department of Revenue click here.
- First, register your business with the Secretary of State click here.
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- If your business will be a Sole Proprietorship:
You only need to register with the Department of Revenue click here.
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Once this step is done, you’ll get your UBI number. You’ll use this number when you apply to become a licensed contractor.
COST OF THIS STEP:
$50 for Department of Revenue Business License
$180 for Secretary of State Partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC), or Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) (if applicable)
Total Cost: $50 or $230, depending on business structure
Step 3: Get an EIN Number
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is like a Social Security number, but for your business. The IRS uses it to keep track of your company for taxes. You’ll also need it to open a business bank account and to hire employees in the future.
Getting an EIN is free and fast.
You can apply online with the IRS click here.
When you finish, the IRS will give you your EIN right away. Make sure to print or save the letter they give you — you’ll need it later.
Cost of this step: $0
Step 4: Call to Issue Your Insurance and Bond
Once you have your business license and EIN, it’s time to make things official. Call us at 360-800-6410 to issue your contractor bond and general liability insurance.
These are both required by Washington State before you can become a licensed contractor. In most cases, we can have your bond and insurance ready the same day you call.
With these in place, you’ll be fully prepared for the final step: registering as a contractor with Washington L&I.
Cost of this step: $0
Step 5: Register as a Contractor with Washington L&I
You’re almost there! The final step is to register as a contractor with Washington Labor & Industries (L&I). This step has two important parts:
- Fill Out the Contractor License Application
Download the form here and complete it carefully.
⚠️ Important: Make sure your business name matches exactly across all of your documents — Bond, Liability Insurance, Business License, and this Application. Even small differences (like “LLC” missing or a period out of place) will delay your license.
- File Your Paperwork at a Local L&I Office
After your application is complete, you’ll need to take it — along with your bond, insurance, and business license — to your local L&I office. Find the nearest office and make an appointment here.
✅ Once this step is done, congratulations — you are now a licensed and registered contractor in Washington State!
Be sure to check out our Bid Links & Resources Page to start finding jobs and opportunities right away.
Cost of this step: $141.10
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Insurance Professional Agency INC
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