How often do I need to renew my Residential Contractor License in Minnesota?

The Residential Contractor License in Minnesota must be renewed every 24 months.

How much does it cost to renew a Residential Contractor License in Minnesota?

The renewal cost for a Residential Contractor License in Minnesota is $180.00.

What happens if my Residential Contractor License expires in Minnesota?

Operating as an unlicensed residential contractor in Minnesota is a misdemeanor. Penalties include fines up to $1,000, and the DLI may issue cease-and-desist orders and deny future licensing.

Minnesota renewal guide

Residential Contractor License

If this license is up for renewal, this page gives you the fee, the timeline, and the items that usually hold the filing up.

Start here

What matters before you file.

Check the fee, the renewal window, and the documents or insurance records that can slow approval down.

Issuing authority

Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI)

Renewal period

Every 24 months

Renewal fee

$180.00

Late penalty

$90.00

Bond requirement

No

Insurance requirement

Yes — General Liability, Workers' Compensation

Continuing education

14 hours

Before you renew

Get the filing straight.

1
Finish the CE first

Complete the 14 required hours before you start the renewal.
2
Check the insurance certificates

Make sure the required policies are current and match what the board or agency expects before you file.
3
File with the board

File through Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) and pay the $180.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online
4
Leave room for processing

Typical processing time is 30 days, so do not wait until the last minute.

If you miss the deadline, the late penalty is $90.00, with a 30-day grace period.

Detailed notes

The fine print is here.

Minnesota Residential Contractor License

The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) requires residential contractors to obtain a state license before performing residential construction, remodeling, or repair work valued at more than $15,000.

Requirements

Experience: Demonstrated construction experience
Examination: Must pass the DLI residential contractor exam
Insurance: General liability and workers' compensation required
Application Fee: $180 base fee plus Contractor Recovery Fund fee

Continuing Education

Hours: 14 hours per renewal cycle (every 2 years)
Topics: Must include energy code/conservation and business management (1 hour each minimum)
Providers: Approved by DLI

Renewal Information

Renewal Period: Every 2 years (expires March 31)
Renewal Fee: $180 base fee plus Contractor Recovery Fund fee ($320 if gross receipts under $1M; $420 if $1M-$5M)
Late Penalty: $90 additional fee if renewal not received by expiration date
CE Requirement: Must complete 14 CE hours before renewal

Scope of Work

Covers new construction, remodeling, and repair of residential buildings (1-4 dwelling units) where the total contract price exceeds $15,000. Includes general construction, framing, siding, and other non-specialty trade work.

*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the Minnesota DLI.*

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