Washington D.C. — How to Check a Contractor's License

Washington D.C. requires contractors to hold a state license for projects exceeding Varies by license class in labor and materials. The Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) oversees licensing, complaints, and disciplinary actions.

Step 1: Get the Contractor's License Number

Any legitimate contractor in Washington D.C. 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 Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) website to look up the contractor's license. We're working on adding Washington D.C. license data to our search tool — check our Washington D.C. 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

Washington D.C. requires licensed contractors to carry a surety bond ($5,000 (continuous surety bond)). The bond protects consumers if the contractor violates state regulations or abandons a project. Ask the contractor for proof of their bond, and verify it through the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP).

Step 4: Check Complaint History

The Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) tracks complaints filed against licensed contractors. Before hiring, check if the contractor has any past disciplinary actions, complaints, or violations. Visit the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) website to check complaint history.

What Happens if You Hire an Unlicensed Contractor?

Hiring an unlicensed contractor in Washington D.C. 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
• No bond protection — the bond is your safety net

How to Report an Unlicensed Contractor in Washington D.C.

If you suspect a contractor is working without a license in Washington D.C., report them to the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP). 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.