Contractor License in North Dakota
Requirements, filing process, and what you should expect to pay, without the broker pitch.
What this bond requires in North Dakota
North Dakota requires a contractor license through the Secretary of State for any job where the cost, value, or price exceeds $4,000 (NDCC ch. 43-07). The state does not require a contractor license surety bond - the prior bond statute (NDCC § 43-07-11) was repealed in 1995. Applicants must provide a current liability insurance certificate, certify payment of payroll taxes, workers compensation, and unemployment insurance. Class of license is based on job value tiers ($300,000+, $200,000+, $100,000+, $4,000+).
Who requires it
The contractor license is required by the North Dakota Secretary of State, Business Services Division under NDCC ch. 43-07 (Contractors).
How to file in North Dakota
Apply or renew through the FirstStop online portal at firststop.sos.nd.gov. Submit the application, license fee (based on class), current liability insurance certificate, and certifications of paid payroll taxes, workers comp, and unemployment insurance. Renewal required annually by March 1.
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Common questions
Is a contractor license required in North Dakota?
No state-level surety bond. NDCC § 43-07-11 (formerly the contractor bond requirement) was repealed by 1995 Session Laws. Local jurisdictions may impose bond requirements.
How much is the bond in North Dakota?
North Dakota 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 North Dakota Secretary of State, Business Services Division.
How is the bond filed?
Apply or renew through the FirstStop online portal at firststop.sos.nd.gov. Submit the application, license fee (based on class), current liability insurance certificate, and certifications of paid payroll taxes, workers comp, and unemployment insurance. Renewal required annually by March 1.
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.
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Same bond, other states
- Alabama
- Alaska
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- Connecticut
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- Illinois
- Indiana
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- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
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- South Dakota
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- Vermont
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- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Other bonds in North Dakota