The two exams to obtain your general contractor's license in Washington are the Business Management/Law exam and the Trade exam. They cover different materials, so you need to prepare sufficiently for both.
As a general contractor in Washington, there is no state licensing requirement. Still, you'll need to register with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. You'll need to show proof of a $12,000 surety bond and proof of general liability insurance. You also must pass an exam.
Retail sales tax: Businesses selling goods at retail or performing retail services (such as custom prime construction) must also collect and remit retail sales tax on their total charges unless a specific exemption applies.
All work shall be limited to minor and casual work of existing residential maintenance and repair with a total dollar value of time and materials under two thousand dollars.
Services to individuals and businesses – things like haircuts, medical bills, consultant fees, etc. – are not “personal property,” and are most often not subject to sales tax. However, some services are subject to sales tax, as listed in RCW 82.04. 050.
Professional services are generally not taxable in Washington State. However, some services are subject to sales tax. “Constructing and decorating real or personal property for others” is taxable.
Non-itemized charges: Generally, when IT products and services are sold as a non-itemized package, the entire transaction is subject to retail sales or use tax.
Completed applications submitted by mail are currently taking 3-4 weeks after receipt to process and activate your registration. Once your business is registered, it will be listed in our Verify a Contractor, Tradesperson, or Business tool. You will receive a registration card in about 2 weeks.
Construction Contractors Must Be Registered. Washington State requires all construction contractors to register with L&I. State law also requires construction contractors to be bonded and insured to protect the public. Once registered, contractors can bid, advertise, and perform construction work.