North Dakota renewal guide
Class C General 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
Renewal period
Every 12 months
Renewal fee
$45.00
Late penalty
$50.00
Bond requirement
No
Insurance requirement
Yes — General Liability, Workers' Compensation
Before you renew
Get the filing straight.
- 1
Check the insurance certificates
Make sure the required policies are current and match what the board or agency expects before you file.
- 2
File with the board
File through North Dakota Secretary of State and pay the $45.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online - 3
Leave room for processing
Typical processing time is 14 days, so do not wait until the last minute.
If you miss the deadline, the late penalty is $50.00, with a 92-day grace period.
Detailed notes
The fine print is here.
North Dakota Class C General Contractor License
The North Dakota Secretary of State issues the Class C General Contractor license under NDCC Chapter 43-07. This license authorizes construction work on projects valued up to $300,000 per single contract.
Licensing Threshold
A contractor license is required in North Dakota when the cost, value, or price of a construction project exceeds $4,000.
What This License Authorizes
Class C license holders may engage in general construction on any single contract project valued at up to $300,000. This tier is suitable for smaller general contractors handling residential and light commercial work.
Insurance Requirements
- General Liability Insurance: Required, with the North Dakota Secretary of State listed as certificate holder
- Workers' Compensation: Certificate from Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI) required
Fees
- Application Fee: $225
- Annual Renewal Fee: $45
- Late Renewal Penalty: $50 (for renewals postmarked after March 1 but on or before June 1)
Renewal Process
- Renewal Period: Annually, due by March 1
- Renewal Fee: $45
- Late Penalty: $50 additional fee for late renewals between March 2 and June 1
- Grace Period: Approximately 92 days (March 1 to June 1)
- No Continuing Education Required
Consequences of Operating Without a License
Performing construction work valued over $4,000 without a valid contractor license is a Class B misdemeanor under NDCC 43-07. Unlicensed contractors may be unable to enforce construction contracts or file mechanics' liens.
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the North Dakota Secretary of State.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- Proof of Insurance
- workers_compensation_certificate
Source notes
North Dakota Secretary of State, NDCC Chapter 43-07 . Verified March 2026. https://www.sos.nd.gov/business/licensing-registration/contractors
Rules move. Check North Dakota Secretary of State again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.
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Next steps
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North Dakota checklist
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