Rhode Island renewal guide
Underground Utility 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 24 months
Renewal fee
$200.00
Late penalty
$50.00
Bond requirement
Yes — $20,000.00
Insurance requirement
Yes — General Liability, Workers' Compensation
Before you renew
Get the filing straight.
- 1
Make sure the bond still clears
The $20,000.00 bond requirement needs to stay active through 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 Rhode Island Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board (RICRLB) and pay the $200.00 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 $50.00.
Detailed notes
The fine print is here.
Rhode Island Underground Utility Contractor License
The Rhode Island Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board (RICRLB) issues the Underground Utility Contractor License for contractors who perform work on sewer, water, or storm drainage lines and related underground utility infrastructure.
What This License Authorizes
Underground Utility Contractors are authorized to install, repair, and maintain underground sewer lines, water mains, storm drainage systems, and related underground utility infrastructure in Rhode Island.
Application Requirements
- PSI Exam: Applicants must pass a written examination administered by PSI testing services
- Application Fee: $200 for a 2-year license period
- Surety Bond: $20,000 bond with RICRLB designated as the holder
- General Liability Insurance: Minimum $1,000,000 per occurrence, naming RICRLB as certificate holder
- Workers' Compensation: Required if you have employees, naming RICRLB as certificate holder
- Government-Issued ID: Driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID
Bond and Insurance Requirements
- Surety Bond: $20,000 required, filed with the RICRLB
- General Liability Insurance: Minimum $1,000,000 per occurrence
- Workers' Compensation: Required if you have employees
Renewal Process
- Renewal Period: Every 2 years
- Renewal Fee: $200
- Late Fee: $50 for expired licenses
- Bond and insurance must remain current throughout the license term
Consequences of Operating Without a License
Performing underground utility work without a valid license in Rhode Island may result in administrative fines of up to $5,000 for a first offense and $10,000 for subsequent offenses, along with potential criminal penalties.
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the Rhode Island RICRLB.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- Proof of Insurance
- Bond Certificate
- Government-Issued ID
- exam_results
Source notes
Rhode Island Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board . Verified March 2026. https://crb.ri.gov/licenses/underground-utility-license/apply
Rules move. Check Rhode Island Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board (RICRLB) again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.
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