Have you been thinking about getting your contractor’s license? It is important for contractors to be equipped with a guide to becoming official in Missouri, even from a government standpoint, so you are prepared and protected. Obtaining your contractor’s license levels up your career and makes you official as a professional contractor. A license is required to work in many locations, and it is also a means to make more money. Many potential clients may not want to work with you if you don’t have a contractor’s license since this could be leaving yourself, and them, in legal hot water.
Getting Licensed
Whether you’re just beginning your contracting business or have been in the industry for a while now, securing your contractor’s license in Missouri can seem complex and feel like such a hassle as it involves paperwork, checks, lots of mailing and a fair amount of time to get a license.
Although, it’s fairly simple to pursue licensure if you know the steps. And, as we’ve already established, there are plenty of reasons to do so. Getting a license builds credibility with customers. Even for smaller jobs, people want to hire contractors who have been verified as credible in their craft.
It also markets your business as you will appear in public lists of licensed contractors. Give yourself a competitive edge over other contractors by getting licensed and protect your business with general liability and business insurance.
Getting Business Insurance
First and foremost, you will want to secure a strong business insurance plan. In your line of work, accidents and injuries are inevitable. Protect your business and its employees by purchasing general liability and worker’s compensation insurance. Not only are these protections almost always needed in order to obtain your license, they will also cover unexpected losses and damage to your tools, vehicles, and other equipment.
The Steps
You can obtain your license in your local Missouri city or county. There is not a statewide license, so the process is defined through a local level. It may involve doing some follow up with your town or city hall to ensure you will receive the correct license.
Likely steps you will need to take in order to qualify for a license:
- Complete application form.
- Prove you’re at least 21 years old.
- Provide your high school diploma or GED.
- Provide information regarding your skills and experience.
- Provide exam results from a recognized examination agency.
- Provide proof of general liability coverage and workers compensation insurance.
- Get a state sales tax number through the Missouri Department of Revenue.
- Obtain clearance from the Collector of Revenue’s Office.
- Get an Occupancy Permit from the Building Division.
- Pay an application fee.
Applying for a license might seem tedious at first, however it is worth the time and effort it takes to make yourself official in the industry, to help grow your business, take on bigger jobs, and earn more in the long run.
About Sine Insurance
At Sine Insurance Group, we are dedicated to providing you with custom tailored insurance policies to protect your assets. Our comprehensive packages have been expertly crafted to serve St. Louis and the surrounding areas for the past 25 years. For more information about our products, contact us today at (855) 700-0889.