If you’re starting a new construction business in Alaska, it's important to know the regulations for Alaska contractor licensing requirements inside and out.
Alaska requires everyone who performs contracting work for hire to carry a contractor license of some type, and many general contractors may even need an additional residential license. Keep reading to find out what is required to be properly licensed as a contractor in Alaska.
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The State of Alaska wants every contractor performing work to carry a license of some kind. Even handyman-type contractors performing work valued at less than $10,000 need to carry general contractor-type licenses, though they are slightly different from the typical GC’s.
Alaska contractor licensing requirements are serious, but luckily, they aren’t overly confusing. Licensing is a function of the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development’s Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing.
The main license types include general contractor, mechanical contractor, electrical contractor, handyman contractor, and specialty contractor. The requirements for each license type are different from one another, but the process is relatively straightforward. Do understand that many of these licenses require passing a business and trade exam.
Unlike many states, Alaska sees general contractors as regulated professionals, and they need to carry a general contractor license. These contractors can build new homes as well as perform both commercial and residential work.
There are three main types of general contractor licensing:
General Contractor Without Residential Contractor Endorsement: This license type is for general contractors who perform primarily commercial work or residential work worth less than 25 percent of the home’s value. These contractors will use the General Contractor without Residential Endorsement Application on this page.
General Contractor With Residential Contractor Endorsement: This license type is for general contractors who perform work on residential structures valued in excess of 25 percent of the home’s value. These contractors will use the General Contractor with Residential Endorsement Application on this page.
General Contractor Handyman: This license is for handyman-type contractors who only take commercial or residential contracts valued at under $10,000. Handyman contractors will use Handyman Contractor Application on this page.
Beyond choosing the appropriate license, applicants also have other requirements they must meet, including:
