Ohio renewal guide
Home Improvement Contractor License (Columbus)
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
$350.00
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 City of Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services and pay the $350.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online - 3
Leave room for processing
Typical processing time is 15 days, so do not wait until the last minute.
If you miss the deadline, the late penalty is $50.00, with a 30-day grace period.
Detailed notes
The fine print is here.
Columbus Ohio Home Improvement Contractor License
Columbus requires a specific Home Improvement Contractor license for residential improvement work, separate from the general contractor license.
License Types
- Home Improvement General Contractor: 3+ years of relevant experience, must pass Ohio HIC exam (70% passing score)
- Home Improvement Limited Contractor: 1 year of relevant experience, exam not required for limited scope
Requirements
- Experience: 3+ years for General, 1 year for Limited
- Examination: Ohio Home Improvement Contractor - 767 exam (General only)
- Insurance: General liability and workers' compensation insurance
- Application Fee: $300
Renewal Information
- Renewal Period: Annual
- Renewal Fee: $350
- Documentation: Updated insurance required
- Late Renewal Penalty: $50
Scope of Work
Home Improvement Contractors can perform residential renovation, remodeling, and repair work within Columbus city limits. This license is specific to residential properties.
Ohio's Decentralized System
Remember: Ohio has no state-level general contractor or home improvement license. Each city has its own requirements. What applies in Columbus may not apply in other Ohio cities.
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- Proof of Insurance
- Examination Results
- Experience Documentation
Source notes
City of Columbus 2026 Combined Development Related Fee Schedule (effective Jan 22, 2026) . HIC: $300 application, $350 annual. Late penalty not published. Verified March 2026.
Rules move. Check City of Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.
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Next steps
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Printable checklist
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