How To Get Roofing Contractor License

November 30, 2025

2 min read

dilshadakram

To get a roofing contractor license, you need to complete training, pass an exam, and apply through your state or local government. The exact steps vary by state, but most require classroom hours, hands-on experience, and a written test. The roofing industry is growing fast, with employment expected to grow 6% from 2024 to 2034, faster than average for all occupations according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Getting licensed helps you work legally and build trust with customers.

What Training Do You Need?

Most states require 4,000 to 8,000 hours of hands-on work before you can apply for a license. You can get this by working as a helper under a licensed roofer. Some states let you take trade school classes to count toward your hours.

Trade schools offer roofing programs that teach safety, materials, and installation skills. These programs usually take 6 to 12 months to finish. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for roofers is $24.05, and the median annual wage is $50,030 as of May 2023. Taking classes can help you earn money faster.

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What Are the Exam Requirements?

After you get your work hours, you take a written test. The exam covers roofing safety, building codes, materials, and best practices. Each state has different questions, but they all test if you know how to do the job safely.

Some states also require a business and law exam if you want to own your own roofing company. You study the rules for hiring workers, paying taxes, and getting insurance. Most people study 2 to 4 weeks before the test.

How Do You Apply for Your License?

Once you pass your exam, you apply to your state’s licensing board. You fill out forms, pay a fee, and give proof of your work hours and training. According to industry data, there are 135,140 roofers employed in the U.S., and the field is adding about 6% more jobs by 2034.

Your application usually takes 2 to 4 weeks to process. After approval, you get your official license. You can then start your own roofing business or work as a licensed contractor for a company. Remember to renew your license every 1 to 3 years depending on your state.

State Requirements Vary

Here is what different states typically require:

Requirement	Typical Hours	Cost Range
Work Experience	4,000 to 8,000 hours	Paid while working
Classroom Training	200 to 400 hours	$1,000 to $5,000
License Application Fee	One-time	$100 to $500
Exam Fee	One test	$50 to $300

Check with your state’s licensing board for exact rules. Some states like California and Massachusetts have higher wage requirements, with Massachusetts roofers earning $72,390 annually and California earning $69,000 annually according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Getting your license opens doors to better pay and more job opportunities in this growing industry.

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Talk with a local professional roofer to review your options and get a detailed estimate for your project.