Montana renewal guide
Independent Contractor Exemption Certificate (ICEC)
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
Renewal period
Every 24 months
Renewal fee
$125.00
Bond requirement
No
Insurance requirement
No
Before you renew
Get the filing straight.
- 1
File with the board
File through Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) and pay the $125.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online - 2
Leave room for processing
Typical processing time is 14 days, so do not wait until the last minute.
Detailed notes
The fine print is here.
Montana Independent Contractor Exemption Certificate (ICEC)
The Montana Department of Labor & Industry issues the Independent Contractor Exemption Certificate (ICEC) to contractors who are independently established in their own business and have elected not to cover themselves under a Montana workers' compensation insurance policy. The ICEC exempts the holder from mandatory workers' compensation coverage.
Who Needs an ICEC
- Sole proprietors performing construction work independently
- Contractors who do not have employees and wish to be exempt from workers' compensation coverage
- Must demonstrate they are independently established in business
Application and Fees
- Application Fee: $125 (non-refundable)
- Renewal Fee: $125
- Renewal Period: Every 2 years
Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate they meet Montana's legal criteria for independent contractor status. This includes maintaining an independent business, controlling the means and methods of work, and not being economically dependent on a single entity.
Renewal Process
Both ICEC and CR registrations must be renewed every two years. Renewal applications are mailed approximately 60 days before expiration. Renewals can be completed online through the DLI Montana Contractor Portal.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Operating without a valid ICEC may result in penalties of up to $500 per violation. Misclassification of employees as independent contractors carries additional penalties under Montana workers' compensation law.
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the Montana Department of Labor & Industry.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Source notes
Montana Department of Labor & Industry . Verified March 2026. https://erd.dli.mt.gov/work-comp-regulations/montana-contractor/independent-contractor
Rules move. Check Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.
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Next steps
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