New Jersey Contractor License Classifications

In New Jersey, the contractor licensing process is relatively easier than in other states. There is no statewide license for general contractors, as they must register with the Division of Consumer Affairs. On the other hand, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC contractors must apply to the Division of Consumer Affairs and obtain a license at the state level.

There are certain requirements for each license to meet and it is important to choose the right class of license. That will ensure that you obtain the license, which includes your skills, qualifications, and type of contracting work.

If you want to start your own business and get your New Jersey contractor license, you should learn about the available license types. Take a look at this helpful guide, and gain much licensing information before you are officially a contractor.

General Contractor License Classifications

In New Jersey, there is no general contractor’s license, as it is the same title as a home improvement contractor or a home building contractor. Therefore, you should not be surprised when you come across different terms and names.

Home Improvement Contractor License

This license, in short, allows the license holder to repair, replace, install, construct and remodel residential or noncommercial properties. It also permits painting, restoring, and demolishing such structures. The scope of work includes performing contracting work, which pertains to driving ways, kitchens, bathrooms, swimming pools, fences, doors, windows, and so on.

To obtain the permit, an individual must register with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.

Home Building Contractor License

This license, in short, allows the license holder to repair, build, and alter buildings and structures. To obtain this license, a person must apply to the Department of Community Affairs and register their business.

Plumbing License Classifications

In the state of New Jersey, there is no license for plumbing contractors, though an individual must hold a proper plumber’s license to practice in the state. The New Jersey Department of Consumer Affairs handles the licensing process for plumbers and issues licenses to practice legally in the state. It is attainable to seek plumbing licensure in the forms of the following licenses:

• Master Plumber License
• Journeyman Plumber License

Master Plumber License

To clarify, this is the highest level of plumber’s license and it entitles the licensee to perform plumbing work and offer plumbing services. If at least 10% of a licensed company belongs to a licensed master plumber, he can practice as a plumbing contractor.

To apply for the license, an applicant must:

• Be at least 21 years of age
• Have professional practical hands-on experience as a journeyman plumber (at least for a year)
• Take the required exam and score at least 70% on the test
• Have graduated from an approved four-year apprenticeship program
• Properly complete the application form and pay the fee of $100 (you can pay by check or money order)
• Submit evidence of employment, as well as required education
• Provide necessary documentation, including your Social Security Number and a passport-type photo

Journeyman Plumber License

To clarify, this license entitles the licensee to perform plumbing work and offer plumbing services being under the surveillance of a licensed master plumber (or journeyman).

To apply for the license, an applicant must:

• Finish an apprenticeship program, which consists of 4 years
• Holding a bachelor’s degree can be an alternative
• Properly fill in the application form and pay $75 as a fee
• Submit evidence of employment, as well as required education
• Provide necessary documentation, including your SSN and a passport-type photo
• There is no compulsory exam to take

Electrical Contractor License Classifications

The New Jersey Department of Consumer Affairs handles the licensing process for electrical contractors and issues licenses to practice legally in the state.

Journeyman Electrician License

A journeyman electrician, in short, is an individual, who has 8,000 hours of practical experience installing, repairing, and altering electric light, heat and power wires. He must also have completed at least 576 classroom hours of related instruction.

Electrical Contractor License

To clarify, an electrical contractor is an individual, who carries out the above-mentioned duties, however for larger and more difficult projects.

To become an electrical contractor, an applicant must:

• Be at least 21 years of age
• Hold a high school diploma (or its equivalent), as well as a valid journeyman electrician license
• Have five years of practical hands-on experience (an alternative to this may be having four years of an apprentice program and a year of hands-on experience)
• Submit an exam application, pay the fee of $100 and successfully pass the exam

HVAC Contractor License

To clarify, this license allows the licensee to perform contracting work, which relates to HVAC services.

The requirements for the license include:

• Being at least 21 years of age and a legal resident
• Having five years of practical hands-on experience
• An alternative may be holding a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Submitting necessary paperwork

Contact Information

Division of Consumer Affairs
Regulated Business Section
Home Improvement Contractor
124 Halsey Street
Newark, New Jersey 07101
Phone: (973) 424-8150