Class A
Permits contracts over $500,000 per job.
Filing fee typically higher than other classes; bond/insurance required.
Getting your North Dakota license starts here...
In North Dakota, most contractors must obtain a license from the Secretary of State (SOS) before bidding or performing work. Licenses are issued in four classes based on project value: Class A (over $500,000), Class B (up to $500,000), Class C (up to $300,000), and Class D (up to $100,000). Each applicant must submit financial information, proof of liability insurance, and secure a contractor’s license bond in an amount tied to the license class.
Although the SOS regulates licensing, local jurisdictions may still require additional permits, registrations, or inspections depending on the project. Public contracts also typically require separate performance and payment bonds.
Contractor Licensing Inc. helps contractors navigate the SOS process by preparing applications, arranging financial statements, securing license bonds, and ensuring ongoing compliance so you can qualify for the right license class and take on projects with confidence.
Official resource: North Dakota Secretary of State – Contractors
North Dakota Secretary of State — Contractor Licensing
North Dakota licenses contractors through the Secretary of State (SOS). Licenses are issued in four classes based on the maximum single-project value. You’ll submit business details, insurance, and a contractor’s license bond sized to your class.
Class B
Permits contracts up to $500,000 per job.
Bond and liability insurance required.
Class C
Permits contracts up to $300,000 per job.
Bond and insurance required.
Class D
Permits contracts up to $100,000 per job.
Bond and insurance required.
- Application: SOS contractor license application with business registration as needed.
- Bond: Contractor’s license bond (amount tied to license class) from a surety authorized in ND.
- Insurance: Liability (and workers’ comp if you have employees).
- Local rules: Cities may still require local registration/permits and inspections.
- Public work: Expect bid, performance, and payment bonds on government projects.
Always verify current fees, bond amounts, and forms with the ND SOS.
Multi-State Tip: “Classifications vs. Limitations”
North Dakota controls project size using Classes A–D. By contrast, North Carolina’s NCLBGC uses
work types (Building, Residential, Highway, Public Utilities, Specialty) and separate financial limits
(Limited / Intermediate / Unlimited). If you work in multiple states, confirm whether a jurisdiction uses
project-value classes (like ND) or classification + limitation (like NC) before you bid.
Reference: NCLBGC “Classifications & Limitations”.
Official Resources
RECIPROCAL STATES
Reciprocity
North Dakota does not publish broad reciprocity for contractor licensing. Apply with the SOS, meet the class-based bond and insurance requirements, and verify any local city permits before you start work.
Let us know how we can help!
FREE CONSULTATION
FREE CONSULTATION