Contractor License Bond in Washington

What this bond requires in Washington

Washington is a state where the distinction between general and specialty actually matters for your wallet: General vs. specialty is the whole ball game. A general contractor pays double the specialty rate ($30K vs $15K bond). If you only do one trade, register as a specialty contractor and save the premium difference. The 2024 increase was significant. If you were bonded before July 2024, your renewal will be roughly 2.5× your old premium. Plan for it. L&I also requires insurance. Don't conflate the bond with insurance — you need both. The bond is for consumer protection claims; the insurance is for liability.

Who requires it

The contractor license bond is required by the Department of Labor & Industries under RCW 18.27.040.

How to file in Washington

Washington calls it 'contractor registration' rather than licensing. The bond is filed with L&I as part of the registration packet, along with proof of general liability insurance. You cannot legally advertise or bid on work until your registration is active.

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FAQ

Common questions

Is a contractor license bond required in Washington?

Yes. Washington requires contractor license bonds issued by an admitted surety. The required amount is $15,000 to $30,000.

How much is the bond in Washington?

The bond amount is $15,000 to $30,000. Your annual premium is a small percentage of that, based on credit and experience.

Who requires the bond?

The bond is required by the Department of Labor & Industries.

How is the bond filed?

Washington calls it 'contractor registration' rather than licensing. The bond is filed with L&I as part of the registration packet, along with proof of general liability insurance. You cannot legally advertise or bid on work until your registration is active.

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.