Updated April 2026
Delaware Contractor Licensing — Quick Facts
- State License Required?
- Business license only (not contractor-specific license)
- Licensing Board
- Delaware Division of Revenue
- Minimum Project Threshold
- $20,000+ annual receipts requires business license
General business license ($75/year) functions as contractor license. No exam required. Public works over $50,000 require DelDOT prequalification. Specialty trades require separate licenses and exams.
State-Specific Details
Additional licensing bodies: Delaware Division of Revenue; Department of Professional Regulation (specialty trades)
Delaware requires contractors to hold a state license for projects exceeding $20,000+ annual receipts requires business license in labor and materials. The Delaware Division of Revenue oversees licensing, complaints, and disciplinary actions.
Step 1: Get the Contractor's License Number
Any legitimate contractor in Delaware should readily provide their license number. It should appear on their business card, vehicle, website, and advertising. If a contractor refuses to share their license number, don't hire them.
Step 2: Verify the License
Visit the Delaware Division of Revenue website to look up the contractor's license. We're working on adding Delaware license data to our search tool — check our Delaware page for updates.
When checking the license, verify:
- Status is "Active" — not expired, suspended, or revoked
- Name matches — the business name on the license should match who you're hiring
- Classifications cover your project — a plumbing license doesn't cover electrical work
- License won't expire during your project
Step 3: Check Bond and Insurance
While Delaware does not require a surety bond for all contractors, you should still verify that your contractor carries general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance (if they have employees). Ask for certificates of insurance before signing any contract.
Step 4: Check Complaint History
The Delaware Division of Revenue tracks complaints filed against licensed contractors. Before hiring, check if the contractor has any past disciplinary actions, complaints, or violations. Visit the Delaware Division of Revenue website to check complaint history.
What Happens if You Hire an Unlicensed Contractor?
Hiring an unlicensed contractor in Delaware puts you at risk:
- Your homeowner's insurance may not cover work done by unlicensed contractors
- You have limited legal recourse if the work is defective
- No surety bond to file claims against
- Unpermitted work can cause problems when selling your home
How to Report an Unlicensed Contractor in Delaware
If you suspect a contractor is working without a license in Delaware, report them to the Delaware Division of Revenue. Unlicensed contracting is typically a misdemeanor and carries fines and potential jail time.
Other States
Looking up a contractor in a different state? Visit our state-by-state contractor license lookup page to find the right verification tool for your state.