General Building Contractor (Class B)

Hawaii General Building Contractor License (Class B)

The Hawaii Contractors License Board, under the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA), issues the Class B General Building Contractor license. This is the most common general contractor classification in Hawaii, authorizing construction of residential, commercial, and industrial structures involving two or more unrelated building trades.

What This License Authorizes

General Building Contractors (Class B) may construct, remodel, or repair any structure including homes, apartment buildings, commercial offices, retail spaces, warehouses, and industrial buildings. The work must involve two or more unrelated building trades or crafts. Class B licensees typically serve as the prime contractor, coordinating specialty subcontractors on a project.

Insurance Requirements

• General Liability Insurance: Minimum $100,000 per person / $300,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $50,000 per accident for property damage
• Workers' Compensation: Required if you have employees; insurer must notify the Board of any coverage changes

Bond Requirements

The Contractors License Board may require a surety bond on a case-by-case basis, with amounts ranging from $5,000 to $300,000. Bond requirements are determined individually based on the applicant's financial condition and history. Because the bond amount varies by applicant, it is not a fixed requirement for all licensees.

Examination Requirements

Applicants must pass a two-part examination:

• Part I: Business and Law ($75 exam fee)
• Part II: Trade-specific ($75 exam fee)

Applicants must also demonstrate a minimum of 4 years of experience as a journeyman, foreman, supervising employee, or contractor in the applicable classification.

Application and Fees

• Application Fee: $50
• Examination Fee: $75 per part ($150 total)
• Initial License Fee: $663 (first year of biennium) or $494 (second year of biennium)
• Biennial Renewal Fee: $338

Renewal Process

• Renewal Period: Every 2 years, by September 30 of even-numbered years
• Renewal Fee: $338
• No Continuing Education Required
• Grace Period: Licenses not renewed by September 30 are forfeited. Forfeited licenses may be restored within 60 days by paying renewal fees plus a penalty fee.
• Failure to maintain continuous insurance coverage causes automatic license forfeiture

Consequences of Operating Without a License

Unlicensed contracting activity in Hawaii is a misdemeanor under HRS Chapter 444. Each day the violation continues after written notice constitutes a separate offense. Fines can reach up to $5,000 per violation. Violation of a cease and desist order carries a fine of not less than $10,000 per offense.

*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the Hawaii Contractors License Board (DCCA).*