How To Become A Roofing Contractor

November 28, 2025

2 min read

dilshadakram

To become a roofing contractor, you need to start with a high school diploma, get hands-on experience, earn a license, and build your business. Many roofers begin as helpers or laborers before moving up to full roofer positions. The roofing industry is growing fast, with strong demand for skilled workers across the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of roofers is expected to grow 6% from 2024 to 2034, faster than average for all occupations. This is a real opportunity if you are willing to work hard and learn the trade.

What Education Do You Need?

You do not need a college degree to become a roofing contractor. According to industry data, 58% of roofers have only a high school diploma. A high school diploma or GED is the starting point for most people.

Vocational and technical schools offer roofing programs that teach the basics. These programs last a few months to one year and teach safety, materials, and installation methods. Some people learn on the job while working as helpers.

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How Do You Get Started in the Field?

Start by working as a roofer helper or laborer. You will learn how roofs work while earning money. Most helpers do prep work, carry materials, and help experienced roofers.

After two to three years of experience, you can get your roofer license. Requirements vary by state, but most require:

Work experience (usually 2-4 years)
Passing a licensing exam
Safety training and certifications

What About Licensing and Certifications?

Most states require a license to work as a roofer. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for roofers is $24.05, but this can vary based on experience and certifications. Getting certified shows customers you know the trade well.

Key certifications include OSHA safety training, manufacturer certifications for specific materials, and CPR training. Safety is critical in this job. According to OSHA 2025, roofing injuries are projected to cost $2.8 billion in medical and compensation expenses by 2025. Training helps you avoid accidents.

When Are You Ready to Start Your Own Business?

After gaining experience and getting your license, you can start your own roofing company. You will need a business license, insurance, and a small amount of startup money. According to IBISWorld, there are 99,203 roofing companies in the U.S., and the industry is growing at 3.1% per year.

Start small. Take local jobs, build your reputation, and hire employees as you grow. Many successful contractors started with one or two people and expanded over time. Good customer service and quality work are how you build a thriving business.

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Talk with a local roofing solutions to review your options and get a detailed estimate for your project.