Indiana Contractor License Requirements: Complete 2026 Guide

Indiana takes a unique approach to contractor licensing compared to many other states. There is no statewide general contractor license in Indiana. Instead, the state delegates most contractor licensing authority to cities and counties, with one major exception: plumbing. Plumbing is the only construction trade licensed at the state level, regulated by the Indiana Plumbing Commission under the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA).

For all other trades — general contracting, electrical, HVAC, roofing, and more — you will need to check with the specific city or county where you plan to work. Major municipalities like Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, and South Bend each maintain their own licensing programs with different requirements, fees, and exams. This guide covers everything you need to know about Indiana's licensing landscape at both the state and local levels.

Additionally, Indiana's Home Improvement Contract Act (IC 24-5-11) imposes written contract requirements on all residential home improvement work exceeding $150, regardless of whether your local jurisdiction requires a contractor license. Understanding both your local licensing obligations and these statewide consumer protection laws is critical to operating legally in Indiana.

Indiana's Licensing Structure

Indiana's contractor licensing system is decentralized. Unlike states such as California or Alabama that issue statewide contractor licenses, Indiana leaves most licensing decisions to local governments. Here is how it breaks down:

State-Level Licensing

• Plumbing — The only trade with mandatory statewide licensing. Regulated by the Indiana Plumbing Commission under IPLA.
• All other contractors — Must register their business with the Indiana Secretary of State, but there is no state-level trade license for general contractors, electricians, HVAC technicians, roofers, or other trades.

Local-Level Licensing

Cities and counties across Indiana set their own contractor licensing requirements. These vary significantly — some require exams, bonds, and insurance, while smaller jurisdictions may only require permits for individual projects. You must check with each municipality where you intend to work.

Statewide Consumer Protection

Even without a state contractor license, all contractors in Indiana are subject to the Home Improvement Contract Act (HICA) under IC 24-5-11. This law requires written contracts for any residential home improvement work over $150. The contract must include accurate contact information, project start and completion dates, total cost, and a detailed description of the work to be performed. The Indiana Attorney General's Office enforces these requirements.

State-Level Plumbing License

Plumbing is Indiana's only state-regulated construction trade. The Indiana Plumbing Commission, operating under the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA), issues and manages all plumbing licenses statewide under Indiana Code Title 25, Article 28.5.

License Types

Apprenticeship Requirements

Indiana requires plumbing apprentices to complete a program that includes:

• 576 hours of classroom instruction
• 6,400 hours of on-the-job training
• Minimum 4 years to complete
• Program must be accredited by the U.S. Department of Labor or equivalent

Journeyman and Contractor Exam

Both the Journeyman Plumber and Plumbing Contractor licenses require passing an examination administered by Prov, Inc.:

• 90 multiple-choice questions
• 3-hour time limit
• Open-book exam — authorized reference materials are allowed
• Results are provided immediately after completing the exam
• You are allowed 7 attempts within a two-year period from your first scheduled exam date
• Testing centers are located throughout Indiana, including Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, Hammond, Lafayette, Terre Haute, and other cities

Application Process

1. Create or log in to your account at MyLicense.IN.gov
2. Complete the online application and pay the application fee
3. Submit any required documentation (experience verification, background check disclosures)
4. Upon approval, register for your exam through Prov's website
5. Pass the exam and your license will be issued

Note: Applications are considered abandoned if all requirements are not submitted within one year of filing.

Local Contractor Licensing by City

Since Indiana does not issue state-level general contractor licenses, you need to obtain a license from each city or county where you plan to work. Below are the requirements for Indiana's largest municipalities.

Indianapolis (Marion County)

Indianapolis is regulated by the Department of Business and Neighborhood Services (BNS). The city requires licenses for general contractors, electricians, HVAC contractors, and several other trades.

• Surety bond: $10,000 minimum, naming "Consolidated City of Indianapolis and/or Unknown Third Party" as obligee
• General liability insurance: $500,000 minimum per occurrence for bodily injury/death; $100,000 per occurrence for property damage
• Workers' compensation insurance: Required if you employ workers (or submit a waiver if you have no employees)
• License fees: Range from $124 to $247 depending on when during the license term you apply
• Continuing education: 8 hours required per renewal cycle for some license types
• Contact: contractors@indy.gov | 200 E. Washington St., Ste. 107, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Fort Wayne (Allen County)

Fort Wayne's Building Department requires licenses for general contractors and other trades.

• General Contractor License fee: $90
• Exam: Required, administered by the local Building Commissioner
• Experience: Verification of relevant trade experience required

Evansville (Vanderburgh County)

The Vanderburgh County Building Commission oversees contractor licensing in Evansville.

• Surety bond: $25,000
• Experience: 4 years of verifiable experience as a commercial or residential general contractor
• References: 3 letters of recommendation
• Background check: Notarized criminal history form required

South Bend (St. Joseph County)

South Bend's Building Department requires contractors to register before performing work.

• Contractor bond: $5,000 for most license types; $10,000 for demolition contractors
• Application: Must be completed and notarized

Other Cities

Many smaller Indiana cities and counties also have their own licensing requirements. Always contact the local building department before starting work in a new jurisdiction. Some smaller communities may only require building permits rather than contractor licenses.

Electrical Contractor Licensing

Indiana does not have a statewide electrical license. Electrician licensing is handled entirely at the local level. Requirements vary significantly between jurisdictions, but here are common patterns:

Typical License Tiers

• Apprentice Electrician — Entry-level; must work under a licensed journeyman or master electrician
• Journeyman Electrician — Typically requires 8,000 hours (approximately 4 years) of apprenticeship experience and passing a local exam
• Master Electrician — Requires additional experience beyond journeyman level and a more advanced exam
• Electrical Contractor — Business license that typically requires a master electrician on staff

Indianapolis Electrical Requirements

To take the Indianapolis residential electrician exam, you need:

• Completed application with the Indianapolis License Board
• Notarized employer letter documenting 6 years of electrical trade experience
• 3 signed customer reference letters
• Copy of valid driver's license
• Copies of any other licenses, diplomas, or educational records
• Exam: 80-100 multiple-choice questions, 3-4 hour time limit, open-book (NEC allowed)

Fort Wayne Electrical Requirements

• Journeyman: 8,000 hours and 4 years of apprenticeship experience
• Master Electrician: Must renew annually or retake the exam
• No continuing education requirements

Since requirements vary by city, always check with the local building department where you plan to perform electrical work.

HVAC Contractor Licensing

Like electrical work, HVAC licensing in Indiana is handled at the local level only. There is no state HVAC license. However, gas piping installation may require a licensed plumber or pipe fitter under IC 25-28.5, which is administered by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency.

Common Local Requirements

• Experience: Most jurisdictions require 4-5 years of work experience
• Exam: Local examination is typically required
• EPA Section 608 Certification: Required federally for anyone handling refrigerants
• Insurance and bonding: Usually required by larger cities

Indianapolis HVAC Requirements

Indianapolis requires HVAC contractors to obtain a license through the Department of Business and Neighborhood Services. Requirements include insurance, bonding, and an exam. Contact BNS at contractors@indy.gov for current application details.

Examination Requirements

State Plumbing Exam (Prov, Inc.)

The Indiana plumbing exam is the only state-administered contractor exam. Key details:

Exam topics include vents and venting, administrative procedures, fixtures, drainage systems, water supply and distribution, and the Indiana Plumbing Code. Testing centers are located across Indiana, including Anderson, Evansville, Fort Wayne, Hammond, Indianapolis, Kokomo, Lafayette, Plainfield, Richmond, Terre Haute, and Westville.

Local Exams

Many cities administer their own exams for electricians, HVAC technicians, and general contractors. These exams are typically:

• Multiple choice format (80-100 questions)
• Open book, with relevant code books allowed
• 3-4 hours in duration
• Focused on the National Electrical Code (NEC), Indiana Building Code, or trade-specific codes
• Administered by the local building department or a third-party testing company

License Fees and Costs

State Plumbing License Fees

Late Renewal Penalties (Plumbing)

• Received after expiration but before March 1: Additional $15 late fee
• Received after March 1: Additional $100-$200 reinstatement fee

Indianapolis License Fees (Example of Local Fees)

Fort Wayne charges $90 for a General Contractor License. Other cities set their own fee schedules — always check with the local building department for current rates.

Insurance and Bond Requirements

Indiana does not have a single statewide insurance or bonding mandate for all contractors. However, certain requirements apply broadly, and local jurisdictions add their own rules.

Workers' Compensation Insurance (Statewide)

Indiana law requires all construction and home improvement businesses with one or more employees to carry workers' compensation insurance. This is not optional — part-time workers and seasonal employees count toward this threshold. Failure to carry workers' comp is a serious violation.

General Liability Insurance

While not mandated statewide for all contractors, general liability insurance is required by most local licensing authorities. Common minimums:

• Indianapolis: $500,000 per occurrence for bodily injury/death; $100,000 per occurrence for property damage
• Many other jurisdictions set similar or slightly lower minimums
• Clients and general contractors frequently require subcontractors to carry $1,000,000 in general liability coverage regardless of local minimums

Surety Bond Requirements

Bond requirements are set at the local level and vary by jurisdiction:

Bond amounts across Indiana generally range from $5,000 to $25,000 depending on the jurisdiction and license classification.

License Renewal and Continuing Education

State Plumbing License Renewal

Indiana plumbing licenses operate on a two-year renewal cycle:

• Journeyman Plumber and Plumbing Contractor: Expire December 31 of every odd year. Renewal fee is $30 (journeyman) or $100 (contractor).
• Plumbing Apprentice: Expires October 1 of every even year. Renewal fee is $10.
• Plumbing Corporation: Expires December 31 of every odd year. Renewal fee is $100.

Renew online at MyLicense.IN.gov.

Late Renewal

• Renewal received after the expiration date but before March 1 incurs a $15 late fee.
• Renewal received after March 1 incurs a $100-$200 reinstatement fee.
• Practicing on an expired license is a Class B misdemeanor under IC 25-28.5-1-31.

Continuing Education

The Indiana Plumbing Commission does not currently mandate continuing education hours for plumbing license renewal at the state level. However, staying current with code changes and industry practices is strongly recommended.

At the local level, some jurisdictions do require continuing education. Indianapolis, for example, requires 8 hours of CE per renewal cycle for certain contractor license types. Always check your local jurisdiction's requirements.

Business Registration Requirements

Regardless of whether your local jurisdiction requires a contractor license, all businesses operating in Indiana must complete certain registrations:

1. Register with the Indiana Secretary of State: LLCs, corporations, and LLPs must register through INBiz, Indiana's online business portal. Sole proprietorships and general partnerships must register with their County Recorder.
2. Obtain an EIN: Apply for a federal Employer Identification Number through the IRS if you have employees or operate as a corporation or partnership.
3. Register for state taxes: Register with the Indiana Department of Revenue for sales tax, withholding tax, and other applicable state taxes.
4. DBA registration: If you operate under a name different from your legal business name, you must file a Certificate of Assumed Business Name with the County Recorder and the Secretary of State.

How to Verify a Contractor's License

State Plumbing Licenses

Verify any Indiana plumbing license for free using the IPLA's online tool:

• License Verification Portal: mylicense.in.gov/EVerification
• Phone: (317) 232-2960

Local Contractor Licenses

For non-plumbing trades, you need to check with the specific city or county that issued the license:

• Indianapolis: indy.gov/activity/licensed-contractors
• Other cities: Contact the local building department or code enforcement office

Indiana Attorney General

The Indiana Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division can help verify whether a home improvement contractor is properly registered and has any complaints on file.

• Home Improvement Registration Hotline: 1-888-520-6680
• Email: HIC@attorneygeneral.gov

Penalties for Working Without a License

Unlicensed Plumbing Work (State Level)

Under Indiana Code 25-28.5-1-31:

• Acting or advertising as a plumbing contractor or journeyman plumber without a license: Class A misdemeanor — punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000
• Continuing to work after a license has been suspended or revoked: Class A misdemeanor
• Working on an expired license: Class B misdemeanor — punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000
• Failing to display business name on advertising and vehicles: Also a violation under the statute

Home Improvement Fraud (Statewide)

Under Indiana Code 35-43-6 (Home Improvement Fraud), contractors who knowingly misrepresent material facts about contract terms, materials, or services face criminal penalties:

• Financial loss under $750: Class A misdemeanor
• Financial loss $750 - $50,000: Level 6 felony — up to 2.5 years imprisonment
• Financial loss over $50,000: Level 5 felony — 1 to 6 years imprisonment

Local Penalties

Cities that require contractor licenses can impose their own penalties for unlicensed work, including fines, stop-work orders, and denial of building permits. Indianapolis and other major cities actively enforce their licensing requirements.

Additional Consequences

• Inability to enforce contracts or collect payment through the courts in some jurisdictions
• Loss of lien rights
• Liability for damages and legal costs
• Difficulty obtaining insurance coverage for work performed without proper licensing

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a state contractor license in Indiana?

No — unless you are a plumber. Indiana does not issue a statewide general contractor, electrical, or HVAC license. Plumbing is the only trade licensed at the state level through the Indiana Plumbing Commission. All other trades are licensed at the city or county level.

What do I need to start a contracting business in Indiana?

At minimum, you need to register your business with the Indiana Secretary of State, obtain any required local contractor licenses, carry workers' compensation insurance if you have employees, and comply with the Home Improvement Contract Act for residential work over $150.

Does Indianapolis require a contractor license?

Yes. Indianapolis requires licenses for general contractors, electricians, HVAC contractors, and other trades through the Department of Business and Neighborhood Services. You will need a surety bond, insurance, and to pay the applicable license fee.

How do I get a plumbing license in Indiana?

Apply online at MyLicense.IN.gov, pay the application fee ($30 for journeyman, $50 for contractor), and pass the Prov exam (90 questions, 3 hours, open book). You must have either completed an approved apprenticeship or have 4 years of verifiable plumbing experience.

Does Indiana have reciprocity with other states for contractor licenses?

Indiana does not participate in NASCLA reciprocity agreements since it does not have a statewide general contractor license. For plumbing, applicants with an out-of-state license and 4 years of experience may qualify for the Indiana journeyman or contractor exam without completing an Indiana apprenticeship. Check with the Indiana Plumbing Commission for specific requirements.

What happens if I work without a license in a city that requires one?

You may face fines, stop-work orders, permit denials, and potential criminal charges depending on the jurisdiction. For unlicensed plumbing work, you face a Class A misdemeanor under state law. For home improvement fraud, penalties can escalate to felony charges if financial losses exceed $750.

Conclusion

Indiana's contractor licensing system requires you to pay close attention to where you work, not just what trade you practice. While the state keeps its hands off most contractor licensing — leaving it to cities and counties — it strictly regulates plumbing through the Indiana Plumbing Commission and enforces consumer protections through the Attorney General's Office.

Before starting work in any Indiana jurisdiction, take these steps:

1. Register your business with the Indiana Secretary of State
2. Contact the local building department in every city or county where you plan to work
3. Obtain your state plumbing license if you perform plumbing work
4. Secure the required insurance and bonding for your jurisdiction
5. Comply with the Home Improvement Contract Act for all residential work over $150

For questions about state plumbing licensing, contact the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency at (317) 232-2960 or visit in.gov/pla. For consumer protection and home improvement contract questions, contact the Attorney General's office at 1-888-520-6680.