Moving to Idaho as a general contractor: every state's rule

1. 1Application fee. Pay the application fee ($120). Application fee, which includes the original registration. DOPL's published schedule, effective 1 July 2026, is $120 for an individual or a business. The February 2024 paper forms still print a $50 processing fee, so confirm the amount with the Board on (208) 334-3233 or [email protected] before mailing a check. A contractor who already holds an Idaho public works contractor or construction manager license and registers for work outside that license pays no fee..
2. 2Insurance. Carry the required insurance ($300,000). Certificate of general liability insurance, including products and completed operations coverage for your construction operations, of not less than $300,000 single limit, from an insurer authorized to do business in Idaho. List the insured, not DOPL, as the certificate holder. The coverage must stay in force while the registration is active..
3. 3Insurance. Carry the required insurance. Workers' compensation insurance certificate from a carrier authorized to do business in Idaho, or a written statement of why the coverage is not required of you under Idaho Code 72-101 through 72-230, for example because you have no employees..
4. 4Background check. Complete a background check. The application is made under oath and asks whether you have ever received a conviction, finding of guilt, withheld judgment or suspended sentence for a felony, and whether you or any owner has ever had a contractor license or registration denied, surrendered, suspended, revoked or disciplined anywhere. A yes to either means filing DOPL's disclosure form with the court records or the other state's board order. The Board's rule and forms call for this sworn disclosure, not a fingerprint check..
5. 5Other. The application itself: your social security number (individual) or employer tax identification number (business); the business name and address of record, which becomes public; a mailing address, phone and email; the first and last name of every owner, who must be people rather than another entity; and one construction type code, which for commercial building is 001 General Commercial Builder. The code you choose does not limit the work you may perform. Apply online through DOPL's eDOPL online services portal or on the paper form; an application not completed within one year of filing is terminated..
6. 6Other. Within 60 days of registering, display your registration number at your place of business and at each jobsite, and print it on all advertising, contracts, building permits, letterheads, purchase orders and subcontracts. Building officials ask for the number before issuing a permit..

Published fees on this path total $120, excluding exam-vendor fees, bonds, and insurance.