Washington contractor license bond
Bond requiredRequired to get and keep your license.
Washington authorizes contractors through registration rather than an exam, and a bond is required to register: $30,000 for general contractors and $15,000 for specialty contractors. The amounts rose from $12,000 and $6,000 on July 1, 2024 (2SHB 1534), the first increase since 2001, and existing contractors phase into the higher bond at their next renewal. [Source: L&I ↗]
Updated: Raised to $30,000 / $15,000 on July 1, 2024.
Good to know
Specialty contractors post $15,000; general contractors post $30,000.
Estimate your premium
You pay a percentage of the bond amount each year, based on credit.
About 1.5–3.0% of a $30,000 bond.
Estimate only. Your real rate is set by the surety after a quick credit check, and the premium is typically nonrefundable once the bond is issued.
How to get bonded and licensed in Washington
- 1Apply for your contractor license or registration with L&I.
- 2Buy your surety bond from a licensed surety — the premium is a small percentage of the bond amount, based on your credit.
- 3Submit proof of the bond (and any required insurance) with your application.
- 4Keep the bond active and renew it to keep your license in good standing.
Washington contractor bond FAQ
Does Washington require a contractor license bond?
Yes. Washington requires a $30,000 bond for general contractors and $15,000 for specialty contractors.
How much does a contractor license bond cost in Washington?
You don't pay the full bond amount. You pay an annual premium that's a small percentage of it, usually around 1–3% with good credit and more while your credit is still building. On Washington's $30,000 bond, most applicants with solid credit pay roughly $450–$900 a year. Use the calculator above for your own estimate.
Who regulates contractor licensing in Washington?
Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) sets the rules. Specialty contractors post $15,000; general contractors post $30,000.
What does a contractor license bond protect?
A contractor license bond protects your customers and the licensing authority, not you. It guarantees you'll follow the state's contractor laws; if you break them and someone is owed money, they can file a claim against the bond, and you must repay the surety.
Is the bond premium refundable?
Generally no. Once the bond is issued, the premium is earned by the surety and is typically nonrefundable, even if you never have a claim. Most bonds run one to two years, and you renew to keep your license active.
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Bond requirements and amounts are set by L&I and can change. Confirm the current figure with the authority before you buy. This page is general information, not legal advice.