Construction Contractor Registration in Montana

What this bond requires in Montana

Montana requires construction contractors to register with the Department of Labor and Industry under MCA Title 39, Chapter 9, but does not require a statewide contractor license surety bond. Independent contractors must obtain either an Independent Contractor Exemption Certificate (ICEC) or carry workers compensation coverage. The ICEC application asks for 15 points of business documentation, and while a commercial general liability or insurance bond certificate counts as documentation, no bond is mandatory. Specific trades (e.g., electrical, plumbing) are regulated separately.

Who requires it

The construction contractor registration is required by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry, Employment Relations Division - Independent Contractor Central Unit / Construction Contractor Registration Unit under MCA §§ 39-9-101 to 39-9-401 (Construction Contractor Registration); ARM 24.33.101-24.33.151.

How to file in Montana

Submit the Construction Contractor Registration (CR) application with the $70 non-refundable fee, proof of Montana workers compensation coverage on employees, and either a completed ICEC application or workers comp for each listed individual. Process typically takes 5-7 business days for mailed applications. Renew biennially.

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FAQ

Common questions

Is a construction contractor registration required in Montana?

No state surety bond required for Construction Contractor Registration (CR) or Independent Contractor Exemption Certificate (ICEC).

How much is the bond in Montana?

Montana does not publish a single flat amount. See the state-specific notes for how it is determined.

Who requires the bond?

The bond is required by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry, Employment Relations Division - Independent Contractor Central Unit / Construction Contractor Registration Unit.

How is the bond filed?

Submit the Construction Contractor Registration (CR) application with the $70 non-refundable fee, proof of Montana workers compensation coverage on employees, and either a completed ICEC application or workers comp for each listed individual. Process typically takes 5-7 business days for mailed applications. Renew biennially.

What does the bond cover?

Surety bonds protect the obligee, not the principal. If you fail to meet the obligation the bond guarantees, the surety pays the claim and recovers from you.

Is a surety bond the same as insurance?

No. Insurance protects you. A surety bond protects whoever required the bond. You repay the surety for any claim they pay.