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Washington Contractor Licenses

The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) enforces regulations related to Providers, Businesses, and Workers to ensure safe and up-to-code practices. At the same time, the Department of Labor & Industries is the entity responsible for licensing construction contractors in the State of Washington. Washington’s Department of Labor & Industries distinguishes between seven construction license categories, depending on the Board that handles the issuing, the type of work, the application requirements, and the examination process: General and Specialty contractor licenses; Plumbing licenses & certifications; Electrical licenses & certifications; Elevator contractor licenses; Mobile Home Installation certifications; Boiler licenses; and Asbestos licenses.

Washington has designated several testing companies to administer the contractor examinations depending on the license category. PSI© is the company in charge of administering the license exams for electrical and plumbing licenses. Contractor examinations for mobile home installation certifications and elevator licenses are managed by the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) itself. The National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors administers the boiler license examinations. Finally, applicants for asbestos licenses must take a test that is part of the training program that has to be completed.

Below is a list of all Contractor Licenses in Washington with their corresponding information on the overall process to obtain the classification chosen.

Appliance Repair (7D)

Maintenance of small appliances (250 volt, 60 amp, single phase)

Appliances, Equipment

Install and replace appliances that require minimal gas and water connections, excluding dishwashers, hot water tanks, and garbage disposals

Asbestos and Lead

Work on piping systems, floor and ceiling tiles, sheet flooring, acoustical finishes, wall, and attic insulation materials, shingles, and siding materials for asbestos and lead handling

Asbestos

Contract for removal and encapsulation of asbestos-containing material

Asbestos Supervisor

Supervise for work related to asbestos removal and encapsulation

Asbestos Worker

Hande all types of asbestos such as chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, tremolite asbestos, anthophyllite asbestos, and actinolite asbestos

Awnings, Canopies, Patio Covers and Exterior Screens

Installation and repair of window awnings, door hoods, exterior screens, freestanding/attached canopies, and patio covers

Backflow (PL30)

Maintain and repair only existing backflow prevention assemblies

Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspector

Inspect active, inactive, out-of-service, and scrapped boilers and pressure vessels

Boiler Operator

Operate boilers in the State of Washington

Boiler, Steam Fitting, Process Piping

Perform work on power boiler installations, hot water heating systems, chimney connections, flues, refractories, burners, thermal insulation, process and specialty piping, pneumatic and electrical control, sheet insulation, and associated solar heating equipment

Cabinets, Millwork and Finish Carpentry

Install different items of finish carpentry such as cabinets, countertop frames, cases, and sashes, among others

Central Vacuum Systems

Central vacuum systems, pneumatic tube dispatching systems, and any other pipeline systems of reduced pressure for industrial and residential cleaning

Closets

Perform all work related to closets, storage and shelving systems, racks, rails, and drawers

Commercial and Residential (02)

Includes only residential conveyances like wheelchair lifts, dumbwaiters, incline chairlifts, and residential elevators

Commercial/Industrial Refrigeration

All work related to refrigeration equipment and systems used for processing, storage, and display of food products and other perishable commodities

Concrete

Process and place concrete of all materials common to the concrete industry; placing film barriers, sealing, and waterproofing

Construction Clean-Up

Clean up and remove debris resulting from construction projects from buildings, grounds, or structures

Demolitions and Salvage

Wreck existing structures intended for disposal and salvage; erect temporary ramps, barricades, and pedestrian walkways for demolition purposes

Domestic Well (3A)

Circuit extensions and controls of 7.5 horsepower or less at 250 volts

Domestic Well (PL03A)

Install, maintain and repair equipment related to drinking or irrigation water, using pumps not exceeding 100 gallons per minute or 7.5 horsepower

Door, Gate, and Similar Systems (10)

Electric gates, doors, windows, awnings, movable partitions, curtains and similar systems

Doors, Gates and Activating Devices

Work on all types of residential, commercial, and industrial doors

Drain Cleaning and Snaking

Perform camera examination, cleaning or snaking of building drainage, and vent/sewer pipes

Drilling, Blasting and Soil Sampling

Blasting work, soil sampling, and different types of drilling (core and post, hole, horizontal, charges placement)

Drywall

Lay out and install gypsum wall board, interior lath, and plaster repair

Electrical Specialty

Electrical wires and equipment for light, heat, or power, and remote control, signaling, power limited, or communication circuits or systems

Electrical Administrator Appliance Repair (7D)

Ensure compliance with code of elevator appliance repair mechanics

Electrical Administrator Domestic Well (3A)

Supervise the work of Domestic Well (3A) contractors for code compliance

Electrical Administrator Door, Gate, and Similar Systems (10)

Make sure that the work performed on electrical door/gate/similar systems is up to code

Electrical Administrator Equipment Repair (7E)

Ensure Equipment Repair (7E) electricians abide by the state electrical laws and regulations

Electrical Administrator General (AD01)

Be assigned to a general electrical contractor no matter the specialty

Electrical Administrator HVAC/Refrigeration - Restricted (6B)

Guarantee that all work performed by HVAC/Refrigeration Restricted (6B) electricians complies with code regulations

Electrical Administrator HVAC/Refrigeration System (EL06A)

Cannot perform the type of work covered by the HVAC/Refrigeration System (EL06A) license but ensures it is up to code regulations

Electrical Administrator Limited Energy System (EL06)

Supervise work performed on low-voltage circuits for compliance with laws and regulations

Electrical Administrator Nonresidential Lighting Maintenance and Lighting Retrofit (7A)

Work alongside Nonresidential Lighting Maintenance and Lighting Retrofit (7A) electricians to supervise the work performed

Electrical Administrator Nonresidential Maintenance (EL07)

Ensure that all work performed by Nonresidential Maintenance (EL07) electricians follows state regulations and laws

Electrical Administrator Pump and Irrigation (EL03)

Oversee the work performed by Pump and Irrigation (EL03) electricians to ensure compliance with code regulations

Electrical Administrator Residential (EL02)

Review Residential (EL02) electricians’ work following state electrical dispositions

Electrical Administrator Residential Maintenance (7B)

Supervise the work performed on equipment and circuits of a maximum of 250 volts, 60 amperes and ensure it is up to code regulations

Electrical Administrator Restricted Nonresidential Maintenance (7C)

Ensure Restricted Nonresidential Maintenance (7C) electricians abide by the state electrical dispositions

Electrical Administrator Signs (EL04)

Work with Signs (EL04) electricians and supervise the work for code compliance

Electrical

Contract, as a business, for electrical work

Electrical Trainee

Work under the supervision of a certified electrician

Elevator Specialty

Perform all types of work related to elevators, conveyances, and equipment associated with the operation of elevators

Elevator

Employ elevator mechanics and bid on public and private contracts related to elevator services

Emergency Elevator Mechanic (10)

Install, alter, maintain, and inspect conveyances during a state of emergency

Employees of Public Agencies (08)

Maintenance and non alteration repair of conveyances limited to employees of public agencies

Equipment Repair (7E)

Service utilization equipment of no more than 60 volts

Excavation, Grading and Land Clearing

Dig, move, and alter materials that form the Earth’s surface

Fencing

Construction, alteration, and repair of fences, corrals, cribs, guard rails, backstops, posts, flagpoles, etc.

Fire Protection

Lay out, fabricate and install fire protection systems and the equipment related to their functioning

Fireproofing and Coating

Apply different types of fireproofing and coating materials

Floor Covering and Counter Tops

Perform work on floor covering materials and related accessories

Framing and Rough Carpentry

Perform tasks related to the installation and repair of framing systems, and engage in all phases of rough carpentry

General Elevator Mechanic (01)

Work on all types of elevators and conveyances in any location under the Revised Code of Washington

General Journey Level Electrician (EL01)

Can work on all specialty electrical categories without restriction

Glass and Glazing

Select, alter, assemble, and repair all types of glass and glass work, including installing and glazing different structures such as frames, sashes, glass doors, etc.

Gutters and Downspouts

Installation, repair, and maintenance of gutters and exterior downspouts of several materials (metal, wood, plastic)

Handyman

Perform, by themselves, more than one unrelated specialty trade as long as it is minor and casual work under $2,000

Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC/R)

Assembly, installation and service of equipment used for heating and cooling of indoor air, like duct work, air filtering devices, thermal and acoustical insulation, etc.

House Moving

Raise, lower, crib, underpin, and move structures

HVAC/Refrigeration - Restricted (6B)

Work on class 2 low-voltage HVAC/Refrigeration and telecommunications systems, except on systems located in residential occupancies of more than three stories

HVAC/Refrigeration System (EL06A)

HVAC/R systems of 30 volts and less, installation of bonding conductor for metal gas piping only when terminations can be made external to electrical panelboards, switchboards, or other distribution equipment

Industrial Equipment/Machines

Install industrial machinery (generators, compressors, and bolted or permanently attached to structures processors)

Industrial Sites and Grain Terminals (03)

Electric and hand-powered manlifts, special-purpose elevators, and belt manlifts

Institutional Equipment, Stationary Furniture, Lab Tables, Lockers

Equipment and furniture that becomes a permanent part of a structure, such as stationary desks, lockers, chalkboards, shelving, storage, and seats in an auditorium

Insulation and Acoustical

Installation, alteration, and repair of insulation materials used for the control of heat, sound, and moisture

Irrigation Sprinkler Systems

Install, repair, and maintain sprinkler systems for irrigation, dust, and soil erosion control using equipment, materials, and fittings common to the industry

Journey Level Master Electrician

Supervise electricians and electrical work as designated by an electrical contractor

Journey Level Plumber (PL01)

Perform work in all the phases of plumbing construction

Landscaping

Construct, install, maintain, repair, and develop landscape systems and facilities. Prepare land and use materials and equipment common to the industry. Companies that only deliver material are exempt from registration

Lathing and Plastering

Coat surfaces to create a permanent surface coating for the means of fireproofing or soundproofing. May install materials to provide a base or bond for such coating

Limited Energy System (EL06)

Limited to the installation of signaling and power-limited circuits, related equipment, and low-voltage circuits. Includes installing systems such as telecommunications, and similar low-energy circuits and equipment

Limited Residential (06)

Limited to installing, altering, maintaining, inspecting, relocating, decommissioning and repairing residential wheelchair lifts, residential dumbwaiters, and residential incline chairlifts

Locks, Security Alarms and Warning Systems

Set up, install, maintain and repair doors, gates, locks, and devices such as locking devices, jail and prison locking devices, and built-in safes, among others. May also require an electrical license

Manufactured/Mobile Home Installer

Perform all aspects of home-installation work, including but not limited to constructing the foundation system, installing support piers, and skirting

Manufactured/Mobile Home Set Up

Install, alter or prepare mobile homes for the purpose of sitting the home. Installation of electrical equipment that conveys power to the home requires an electrical license

Masonry

Install materials for refractory work. Includes the fabrication and installation of masonry component units for structural load bearing and other components. Includes chimney cleaning and repair

Master Appliance Repair (7D)

Supervise electrical work which Includes the servicing, maintaining, repairing, or replacing household appliances, small commercial/industrial appliances, and other small electrical utilization equipment

Master Domestic Well (3A)

Supervise electrical work limited to the extension of a branch circuit to signaling circuits, motor control circuits, motor control devices, and pumps which do not exceed 7 1/2 horsepower at 250 volts AC single phase input power

Master Door, Gate, and Similar Systems (10)

Supervise electrical work under this specialty, which may install, service, maintain, repair, or replace door/gate/similar systems, electrical operator wiring, and equipment

Master Equipment Repair (7E)

Supervise electrical work for the servicing, maintaining, repairing, or replacing of utilization equipment

Master HVAC/Refrigeration - Restricted (6B)

Supervise electrical work for the installation, repair, replacement, or maintenance of HVAC/refrigeration systems. Limited to telecommunications and class 2 low-voltage control circuit wiring/components

Master HVAC/Refrigeration System (EL06A)

Supervise electrical work on the installation, repair, maintenance, and replacement of HVAC/refrigeration systems regardless of the number of stories above grade and not limited by voltage, phase, or amperage

Master Limited Energy System (EL06)

Supervision of electrical work limited to the installation of signaling and power-limited circuits and related equipment. This specialty is restricted to low-voltage circuits

Master Nonresidential Lighting Maintenance and Lighting Retrofit (7A)

Electrical work supervision limited to working within the housing of existing nonresidential luminaires for work related to repair, service, maintenance of luminaires, and installation of energy-efficient lighting retrofit upgrades

Master Nonresidential Maintenance (EL07)

Supervise electrical work limited to the maintaining, repairing, and replacing existing electrical equipment and conductors, including the installation and connections of temporary conductors and equipment for load testing

Master Pump and Irrigation (EL03)

Supervise electrical work limited to the electrical connection of circuits, feeders, controls, low voltage, related telecommunications, and services to supply. May also perform the work defined for Domestic Well

Master Residential (EL02)

Supervision of electrical work limited to telecommunications, low voltage, and line voltage wiring for one-family or multifamily dwellings. Wiring is limited to nonmetallic sheathed cable and includes the wiring for ancillary structures

Master Residential Maintenance (7B)

Supervise electrical work in the Maintenance, repair, or replacement of existing electrical utilization equipment and all permit-exempted work. Limited to residential and multistory dwelling structures with or without commercial facilities

Master Restricted Nonresidential Maintenance (7C)

Supervision of electrical work in the maintenance, repair, or replacement of electrical utilization equipment. May disconnect and reconnect low-voltage control and line voltage supply whips not over six feet in length

Master Signs (EL04)

Supervise electrical work limited to placement and connection of signs and outline lighting, the electrical supply, related telecommunications, controls, and associated circuit extensions. May also perform work on retrofit kits

Material Lifts (05)

Limited to installing, altering, maintaining, inspecting, relocating, decommissioning, removing, and repairing material lifts

Medical Gas Piping Installer (MG01)

Perform work on medical gas piping systems with a medical gas piping installer endorsement

Metal Fabrication/Sheet Metal

Fabricate, install and repair architectural and general products made of sheet metal. Does not include structural metal fabrication

Nonresidential Lighting Maintenance and Lighting Retrofit (7A)

Repair, service, and maintain nonresidential luminaires. Install energy efficient lighting retrofit upgrades. Limited to the luminaire body

Nonresidential Maintenance (EL07)

Limited to maintaining, repairing, and replacing like-in-kind existing electrical equipment and conductors. Includes installing and connecting temporary conductors and equipment for load testing, not exceeding 600 volts

Overhead/Garage Doors

Install wood, wood panel, steel panel, or steel roll-up doors and the rails and support systems common to the industries. Includes installation of power or hand-operated opening/closing motors and devices

Painting and Wall Covering

Install surface coverings and apply materials for decorating or protective purposes. Includes surface preparation, caulking, pressure washing, sandblasting and cleaning preparatory to painting/wall covering

Paving/Striping/Seal Coating

Install, excavate, grade, compact and repair the application of asphalt or cement to areas such as streets, parking lots, etc. Includes filling cracks, applying sealants, and installing precast bumpers, traffic signs, and striping

Plumbing Specialty

Install, alter, repair, and renovate pipes, plumbing fixtures, drains, sewers, medical gas and vacuum systems, heating systems, and vents. Includes solar heating equipment attached to potable water systems

Pressure Washing

Clean and prepare surfaces with pressurized water for any protective, decorative, and functional treatment on a commercial or residential structure. Includes dust control

Pump and Irrigation (EL03)

Limited to the electrical connection of circuits, feeders, controls, low voltage, related telecommunications, and services for domestic and public water irrigation systems, not including wastewater

Pump and Irrigation (PL03)

Install, maintain, and repair equipment that is used to acquire, treat, store, or move water suitable for drinking or irrigation purposes

Residential (EL02)

Limited to telecommunications, low voltage, and line voltage wiring for one-family or multifamily dwellings. Wiring is limited to nonmetallic sheathed cable and includes the wiring for ancillary structures

Residential (PL02)

Install, maintain, and repair plumbing in single-family dwellings, duplexes, and apartment buildings that do not exceed three stories

Residential Inclined Elevators (07)

Limited to the installation, alteration, maintenance, inspection, relocation, decommission, and repair of residential inclined elevators

Residential Maintenance (7B)

Maintain, repair, or replace (like-in-kind) existing electrical utilization equipment, and all permit exempted work. limited to residential and multistory dwelling structures with or without commercial facilities

Residential Service (PL04)

Repair or replace existing fixtures, piping, and fittings in duplexes and single-family dwellings. Perform drain cleaning and pipe, fitting, or fixture leak repairs in residential structures. May supervise plumber trainees

Restricted Nonresidential Maintenance (7C)

Maintain, repair, or replace electrical utilization equipment. May disconnect and reconnect low-voltage control and line voltage supply whips not over six feet in length

Roofing

Install and repair materials that form a water-tight, weather-resistant surface for roofs and decks. Includes roofing-related architectural sheet metal

Sandblasting

Work using compressed air with abrasive materials. May prepare surfaces for any protective, decorative, or functional treatment on a commercial or residential structure

Sanitation Systems and/or Side Sewers

Fabricate and install sewage disposal and drain systems outside building structures. Includes laying any hardware needed for those systems, as well as any related excavating, grading, trenching, surfacing, and backfilling

Scaffolding and Safety Railings

Erect metal or wood scaffolding, including temporary sidewalk-sheltered construction work barricades, safety railings, stages, and bleachers

Service Station Equipment and Maintenance

Install auto hoisting equipment, hydraulic systems, grease racks, compressors, air hoses, fuel dispensing, cathodic and other service station equipment. May also require an electrical license

Siding

Install all types of exterior siding, including but not limited to wood, wood products, vinyl, aluminum, and metal siding to new or existing buildings

Signs (EL04)

Limited to placement and connection of signs and outline lighting, the electrical supply, related telecommunications, controls, and associated circuit extensions. May also perform work on retrofit kits

Signs

Fabrication and installation of all types of signs. May also require an electrical license

Steel Erectors

Fabricate and erect structural steel shapes and plates which are or may be used as structural members for buildings and structures

Structural Pest Control

Construct, repair, and install ventilation screens, bird exclusion devices, and caulking cracks and holes to exclude and repel pests. Includes the replacement of bird-blocking screens

Suspended Ceilings and Acoustical Tile

Install, modify or repair all types of suspended ceilings, including but not limited to lay-in-grid and other types of systems involving solid, perforated, or translucent ceiling panels

Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs

Construct, alter, and repair permanent swimming pools, spas, or hot tubs, including associated equipment. Includes repair of materials in standard bathtubs or showers. May require an electrical license

Tanks and Tank Removal

Install and remove fuel storage grain and other tanks that have been or will be used for dispensing gasoline or other chemicals. Includes the installation and removal of all incidental tank-related piping. May require an electrical license

Telecommunications Administrator

Supervise the work of telecommunications contractors to ensure adherence to the state electrical laws, rules, and regulations on the installation, maintenance, and testing of telecommunications systems

Telecommunications

Limited to installing, maintaining, and testing telecommunications systems and equipment. Includes systems such as open-wiring, audio or paging, closed circuit video monitoring, and more

Temporary and Special Purpose Conveyances (04)

Install, alter, maintain, inspect, relocate, decommission, remove, and repair temporary personnel hoists, temporary material hoists, and special purpose elevators

Temporary Elevator Mechanic License (09)

Install, alter, maintain, inspect, relocate, decommission, remove, and repair conveyances in the category for which the license is sought

Tile, Ceramic, Mosaic and Natural and Manufactured Stone

Prepare surfaces, install any tile units set in the traditional or innovative tile methods, excluding hollow or structural partition tile. May require a plumber certification

Tree Removal

Fall or remove trees, stumps, or branches on a residential or commercial property or near a residential or commercial structure, outbuilding, or fence

Utilities and Telecommunications

Perform excavation, cabling, horizontal boring, grading, and backfilling necessary to construct a utility or telecommunication system. Also fabricates and installs pipes and piping for gases and other substances

Water Conditioning Equipment

Install water conditioning or water treatment equipment with only such pipes and fittings necessary for a water supply system. May also require a plumber certification

Welding and Ornamental Metal

Install, alter, remove, or repair all architectural, structural and decorative steel, aluminum or other materials in welding techniques

Well Drilling

Install and repair water wells and pumps to supply uncontaminated water by boring, drilling, excavating, and more. Install water conditioning equipment and perform soil sampling. May require a plumber certification

Window Coverings

Installation of window treatment rods and other handling devices, covering products, and treatments applied for temperature control

Wood/Pellet and Gas Stove

Install wood, pellet, gas stoves, zero clearance, and fireplace inserts. The installation of piping, ducting, and equipment for transmitting the heated air or water produced by the devices may also require an electrical license


General and Specialty Contractor Licenses

All construction contractors must be registered with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. Chapter 296-200A of the Washington Administrative Code provides all the information and regulations on registering as a contractor.

The Department of Labor & Industries distinguishes between two main contractor registration classifications: general and specialty contractors. General contractors can perform almost all types of construction work and can hire subcontractors of different specialties. Specialty contractors can only perform work specific to the specialty registered in and are not allowed to subcontract for work.

Washington General and Specialty Official Classification List

  • Appliances, Equipment
  • Asbestos and Lead
  • Awnings, Canopies, Patio Covers and Exterior Screens
  • Boiler, Steam Fitting, Process Piping
  • Cabinets, Millwork and Finish Carpentry
  • Central Vacuum Systems
  • Closets
  • Commercial/Industrial Refrigeration
  • Concrete
  • Construction Clean-Up
  • Demolitions and Salvage
  • Doors, Gates and Activating Devices
  • Drain Cleaning and Snaking
  • Drilling, Blasting and Soil Sampling
  • Drywall
  • Electrical
  • Elevator
  • Excavation, Grading and Land Clearing
  • Fencing
  • Fire Protection
  • Fireproofing and Coating
  • Floor Covering and Counter Tops
  • Framing and Rough Carpentry
  • Glass and Glazing
  • Gutters and Downspouts
  • Handyman
  • Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC/R)
  • House Moving
  • Industrial Equipment/Machines
  • Institutional Equipment, Stationary Furniture, Lab Tables, Lockers
  • Insulation and Acoustical
  • Irrigation Sprinkler Systems
  • Landscaping
  • Lathing and Plastering
  • Locks, Security Alarms and Warning Systems
  • Manufactured/Mobile Home Set Up
  • Masonry
  • Metal Fabrication/Sheet Metal
  • Overhead/Garage Doors
  • Painting and Wall Covering
  • Paving/Striping/Seal Coating
  • Plumbing
  • Pressure Washing
  • Roofing
  • Sandblasting
  • Sanitation Systems and/or Side Sewers
  • Scaffolding and Safety Railings
  • Service Station Equipment and Maintenance
  • Siding
  • Signs
  • Steel Erectors
  • Structural Pest Control
  • Suspended Ceilings and Acoustical Tile
  • Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs
  • Tanks and Tank Removal
  • Tile, Ceramic, Mosaic and Natural and Manufactured Stone
  • Tree Removal
  • Utilities and Telecommunications
  • Water Conditioning Equipment
  • Welding and Ornamental Metal
  • Well Drilling
  • Window Coverings
  • Wood/Pellet and Gas Stove

How to Apply for a General/Specialty License in Washington?

  1. Determine the business type and register with the Department of Revenue:
    • If setting up a sole proprietor or partnership, determine the business name
    • If starting a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a Corporation, refer to the Secretary of State for information on how to incorporate the business
  2. Complete and get a Washington Continuous Contractor Surety Bond for the required amount
  3. Purchase a general liability insurance policy for the required amount
  4. Fill out an Application for Contractor Registration with notarized signatures. If unsure of how to correctly fill out the application form, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries offers help with the application and business registration to those who visit their local offices
  5. Gather all the previous documents and send them with the registration fee to:
    Washington State Department of Labor & Industries
    Contractor Registration
    P.O. BOX 44450
    Olympia, WA 98504-4450
    It is also possible to visit a local office to deliver all the documents and fees
  6. Expect a registration card from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries after the application is processed
  7. Note that once the business has been registered, it will be listed in the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries Verify a Contractor, Tradesperson, or Business website

General & Specialty Contractor License Contact Information and Useful Links

Useful Links for General & Specialty Contractors in Washington

Contact Information for General & Specialty Contractors in Washington

Washington State Department of Labor & Industries

Department of Labor & Industries
7273 Linderson Way SW
Tumwater, WA 98501-5414
Toll-free: 1-800-647-0982
360-902-5226
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.


Washington Plumbing Licenses & Certifications

The Plumber Advisory Board is a Board under the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries in charge of the Plumber Certification Program. The plumber certification program certifies plumbing professionals and ensures that their work meets State requirements. For further information on the State dispositions for plumbing work, refer to Chapter 18.106 of the Revised Code of Washington.

Plumbing Licenses & Certifications

  • Backflow (PL30)
  • Domestic Well (PL03A)
  • Journey Level Plumber (PL01)
  • Medical Gas Piping Installer (MG01)
  • Pump and Irrigation (PL03)
  • Residential (PL02)
  • Residential Service (PL04)

How to Get a Plumbing License or Certification in Washington?

  1. Have experience as a Plumber Trainee. If you don’t have experience as a Plumber Trainee, meet the following requirements and apply for a Plumbing Trainee certificate:
    • Be at least 16 years of age
    • Work under the supervision of a journey level or certified plumber
    • Take 8 hours of plumbing code and 4 hours of electrical classes in two years
  2. Fill out anAffidavit of Experience to report the supervised work hours as a plumber trainee
  3. Meet the required experience or education depending on the license applying for:
    • Journey Level Plumber (PL01): 8,000 hours as a plumber trainee and 4,000 hours working in commercial/ industrial installations
    • Medical Gas Piping Installer (MG01): Complete a minimum of 32 hours of training in a medical gas training course
    • Residential (PL02): 6,000 hours of experience under the supervision of a Residential or Journey Level plumber
    • Residential Service (PL04): 4,000 hours as a plumber trainee under the supervision of a Journey Level, Residential or Residential Service plumber
    • Pump and Irrigation (PL03): 4,000 hours working under the supervision of a certified plumber, except a Pump and Irrigation (PL30) or a Domestic Well (PL03A) plumber
    • Domestic Well (PL03A): 2,000 hours under the supervision of a certified plumber, except a Pump and Irrigation Plumber (PL30)
    • Backflow (PL30): Have an active Backflow Assembly Tester Certification issued by the Washington State Department of Health
  4. Fill out and notarize an Application for Contractor License or a Combination Contractor Application if applying for the Pump and irrigation (PL03) and the Domestic well (PL03A) licenses
  5. Complete and obtain a Surety Bond or Assigned Savings Account
  6. Get a Certificate of Liability Insurance
  7. Choose a designated plumber to hold the valid plumber certificate. The designated plumber can be another person or the applicant, depending on whether they are applying as a business or as a sole proprietor
  8. Satisfy the following educational requirements and apply for the plumber examination with PSI©:
    • Journey Level Plumber (PL01), Residential (PL02), and Residential Service (PL04) plumbers - 24 hours of continuing education, including:
      • 12 hours of Uniform Plumbing Code
      • 4 hours of Industry-Related Electrical
      • 8 hours in any Code, Industry-Related Electrical, or Industry-Related Plumbing area
    • Pump and Irrigation (PL03) and Domestic Well (PL03A) plumbers:
      • 24 hours of combination classes that cover plumbing and electrical subjects, or
      • 12 hours of plumbing and 12 hours of electrical education
    • Backflow (PL30) plumbers - No educational requirements; only a copy of an active Backflow Assembly Tester card is needed
    • Medical Gas Piping Installers (MG01) - A notarized Affidavit of Continuity to report applicable brazing experience. brazing experience must be certified every 6 months
  9. Refer to PSI© Plumbing Examinations Candidate Information Bulletin. For more information on the test (locations, subjects, books to prepare for the exam)
  10. Submit a complete packet with all the required documents to:
    Washington State Department of Labor & Industries
    Plumber Certification
    PO Box 44470
    Olympia WA 98504-4470

Important Links and Contact Information for Plumbing Licenses & Certifications

Useful Links for Plumbing Contractors in Washington

Contact Information for Plumbing Applicants

Plumber Certification Program

Washington State Department of Labor & Industries
Plumber Certification
PO Box 44470
Olympia WA 98504-4470
360-902-5207
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

PSI© Exams

PSI© Contact Website
(855) 746-8170
​3210 East Tropicana
Las Vegas NV-89121


Electrical Licenses & Certifications

The Electrical Board is an entity under the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries that enforces the dispositions of Chapter 19.28 of the Revised Code of Washington. It is also the entity in charge of administering the licensing process for electrical-related licenses and certification in the State of Washington. The Electrical Board distinguishes different licenses and certifications: trainee, electrician, electrical administrator, telecommunications administrator, electrical contractor, a telecommunications contractor, and master electrician.

How to Apply for the Electrical Trainee License in the State of Washington?

To become certified electricians in Washington, contractors must first obtain an Electrical Trainee certification. Trainees work under the supervision of certified electricians. After acquiring the necessary experience to be eligible for a contractor examination, trainees can apply for an electrician license.

  1. Meet the following requirements:
    • Be 16 years of age
    • Have a valid Social Security Number according to State and Federal law
  2. Register in an electrical apprenticeship program through the Apprenticeship Registration & Tracking System:
    • Construction Electrician
    • Inside Electrician
    • Inside Wireman
  3. Fill out and submit an online application and pay the corresponding fee
  4. Expect a training certificate within 10 business days after completing the application
  5. Make sure to work under the supervision of a certified electrician
  6. Report your hours of experience 180 days after the expiration date of the training certificate by submitting an Affidavit for Washington Electrical Trainees

Washington Electrician Licenses & Certifications

  • Appliance Repair (7D)
  • Domestic Well (3A)
  • Door, Gate, and Similar Systems (10)
  • Equipment Repair (7E)
  • General Journey Level Electrician (EL01)
  • HVAC/Refrigeration - Restricted (6B)
  • HVAC/Refrigeration System (EL06A)
  • Limited Energy System (EL06)
  • Nonresidential Maintenance (EL07)
  • Nonresidential Lighting Maintenance and Lighting Retrofit (7A)
  • Pump and Irrigation (EL03)
  • Residential (EL02)
  • Residential Maintenance (7B)
  • Restricted Nonresidential Maintenance (7C)
  • Signs (EL04)

Application Process for Electrician Licenses & Certifications in Washington

  1. Be an electrical trainee or have equivalent out-of-state or military experience
  2. Meet the experience and training requirements:
    You can use the Washington Department of Labor & Industries’ tool to verify the hours of experience
    • General Journey Level Electrician (EL01):
      • 8,000 hours, of which 4,000 must be spent working in commercial or industrial installations, as an electrical trainee under the supervision of a Journey Level Electrician
      • 96 hours of basic classroom instruction
      • Be supervised 75% of the time
    • Residential (EL02), Pump and Irrigation (EL03), Signs (EL04), Limited Energy System (EL06), HVAC/Refrigeration System (EL06A), Nonresidential Maintenance (EL07):
      • 4,000 hours of work experience related to the selected specialty as an electrical trainee
      • 48 hours of basic classroom instruction
      • Be supervised 75% of the time
    • Domestic Well (3A), HVAC/Refrigeration - Restricted (6B), Nonresidential Lighting Maintenance and Lighting Retrofit (7A), Residential Maintenance (7B), Restricted Nonresidential Maintenance (7C), Appliance Repair (7D), Equipment Repair (7E), Door, Gate, and Similar Systems (10):
      • 2,000 hours of work experience related to the selected specialty as an electrical trainee
      • 24 hours of basic classroom instruction
      • Be supervised 75% of the time
  3. Fill out the corresponding application form for the electrical examination:
  4. Mail the application and the documents needed to certify the experience required for each license to:
    Electrical Licensing and Certification
    PO Box 44460
    Olympia WA 98504-4460
  5. Register to PSI© and schedule the examination once the application is reviewed by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. For more information on the test, refer to PSI©’s Electrical Certification Candidate Information Bulletin

Washington Electrical Administrator Licenses and Certifications

  • Electrical Administrator Appliance Repair (7D)
  • Electrical Administrator Domestic Well (3A)
  • Electrical Administrator Door, Gate, and Similar Systems (10)
  • Electrical Administrator Equipment Repair (7E)
  • Electrical Administrator General (AD01)
  • Electrical Administrator HVAC/Refrigeration - Restricted (6B)
  • Electrical Administrator HVAC/Refrigeration System (EL06A)
  • Electrical Administrator Limited Energy System (EL06)
  • Electrical Administrator Nonresidential Lighting Maintenance and Lighting Retrofit (7A)
  • Electrical Administrator Nonresidential Maintenance (EL07)
  • Electrical Administrator Pump and Irrigation (EL03)
  • Electrical Administrator Residential (EL02)
  • Electrical Administrator Residential Maintenance (7B)
  • Electrical Administrator Restricted Nonresidential Maintenance (7C)
  • Electrical Administrator Signs (EL04)
  • Telecommunications Administrator

How to Apply for a Washington Electrical Administrator License or Certification?

  1. Check out the scope of work for each electrical administrator license and choose the one more closely to the desired field
  2. Register with PSI© to take the electrical administrator examination in Washington
  3. Refer to the official exam outline for information on how to schedule the exam and choose the preferred location
  4. Fill out a Change Assignment of Administrator/Master Electrician Certificate form to be assigned to an electrical contractor
  5. Mail the passing score reports within 90 days of the date of the report, the Change Assignment of Administrator/Master Certificate form, and the fee to:
    Department of Labor and Industries
    Electrical Program
    P.O. Box 44460
    Olympia, WA 98504-4460
  6. Expect the certificate within 5 days after the Electrical Board receives all the documentation

Washington Electrical Contractor Licenses and Certifications

  • Electrical Contractor
  • Telecommunications Contractor

How to Obtain an Electrical Contractor License in Washington?

  1. Meet the license requirements for electrical contractors:
    • A valid Unified Business Identifier number from the Department of Revenue or the Secretary of State
    • Have a certified, assigned electrical administrator or master electrician
    • Electrical or telecommunication contractor’s surety bond, or assignment of savings account
    • If the business is planning on hiring employees, obtain a workers’ compensation account
  2. Fill out and complete the following documents:
  3. Send all the documents and the corresponding fees to:
    Washington State Department of Labor & Industries
    Electrical Program
    P.O. Box 44460
    Olympia, WA 98504-4460

Washington Master Licenses and Certifications

  • Journey Level Master Electrician
  • Master Appliance Repair (7D)
  • Master Domestic Well (3A)
  • Master Door, Gate, and Similar Systems (10)
  • Master Equipment Repair (7E)
  • Master HVAC/Refrigeration - Restricted (6B)
  • Master HVAC/Refrigeration System (EL06A)
  • Master Limited Energy System (EL06)
  • Master Nonresidential Lighting Maintenance and Lighting Retrofit (7A)
  • Master Nonresidential Maintenance (EL07)
  • Master Pump and Irrigation (EL03)
  • Master Residential (EL02)
  • Master Residential Maintenance (7B)
  • Master Restricted Nonresidential Maintenance (7C)
  • Master Signs (EL04)

Instructions to Apply for a Washington Master License or Certification

  1. Satisfy the requirements for the corresponding certification level:
    • For the Journey Level Master Electrician, be certified as a General Journey Level Electrician (EL01) for at least four years
    • For the other master licenses, be certified as an electrician for at least 2 years
  2. Gather the following before applying for the examination with PSI©:
    • Social Security Number
    • Mailing address
    • Email address
    • Corresponding fees
  3. Fill out the Application for Master Electrician Certification Examination and send it, along with all the previous documents, to:
    Electrical Program
    PO Box 44460
    Olympia, WA 98504-4460
    The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries allows candidates to apply in person. Refer to the list of local offices before visiting
  4. Expect a notice by mail from the Labor & Industries department and instructions on scheduling the exam once the application is reviewed
  5. Take and pass the master examination. For further information on the subjects and study material needed to prepare for the exam, refer to the Candidate Information Bulletin
  6. Complete a Change Assignment of Master Certificate form to be assigned as a designated master electrician to an electrical contractor and submit it with the corresponding fee

Important Contact Information and Resources for Electrical Licenses & Certifications in Washington

Contact Information for Electrical Licenses and Certifications

Department of Labor & Industries

Electrical Program
Olympia, WA 98504-4460
360-902-5259
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PSI© Exams

PSI© Contact Website
(855) 746-8170
​​3210 East Tropicana
Las Vegas NV-89121

Helpful Links for Electrical Licenses & Certifications in Washington


Elevators Contractor Licenses

The Department of Labor & Industries L&I regulates elevator licenses in Washington through the Elevator Program. Within this program, there are two main elevator license classifications: the Elevator Contractor license and the Elevator Mechanic License. The main difference between them is that the elevator contractor’s license allows a person to employ licensed elevator mechanics and bid on public and private contracts but does not allow the contractor to personally work on an elevator. However, applicants may obtain elevator contractor and mechanic licenses if they meet the requirements and pass the tests.

How to apply for the Elevator Contractor License?

  1. Be registered as a contractor with the L&I Department
  2. Fill out and submit a completed Licensed Elevator Contractor (LC) Operation form
  3. Have at least 5 years of experience performing conveyance work, which needs to be verified by current or previous elevator contractors licensed to do business or take and pass the multiple-choice examination
    • The exam is administered by the L&I Department, which can be reached at 360-902-6130 or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
    • Must pass with a minimum score of 70%
  4. Expect an answer from the department in regards to the license

Elevator Mechanic Licenses

The Elevator Mechanic Licenses are divided into two main categories; General and Specialty. The Specialty Elevator Mechanic License is divided into several categories with different qualification requirements depending on the category selected.

  • General Elevator Mechanic (Category 01)
  • Commercial and Residential (Category 02)
  • Industrial Sites and Grain Terminals (Category 03)
  • Temporary and Special Purpose Conveyances (Category 04)
  • Material Lifts (Category 05)
  • Limited Residential (Category 06)
  • Residential Inclined Elevators (Category 07)
  • Employees of Public Agencies (Category 08)
  • Temporary Elevator Mechanic License (Category 09)
  • Emergency Elevator Mechanic License (Category 10)

How to apply for an Elevator Mechanic License by Category?

Steps to apply for categories 01-08:

  1. Submit an Application for Licensure as an Elevator Mechanic
  2. Meet the experience and education requirements for each license:
    • Categories 01, 02, 03, 04 and 08 must have a minimum of three years’ work experience in the elevator industry performing conveyance work which must be verified by current and previous employers licensed to do business in Washington or as an employee of a public agency
    • Category 05 does not need to meet any specific educational or experience requirements to be obtained
    • Category 06 must have a minimum of two years of experience in the Elevator trade performing conveyance work which needs to be verified by a current or prior employer licensed to do business in the State of Washington
    • Category 07 must have a minimum of 1 year of experience in the elevator industry or 3 years of education in conveyance work. Either option must be verified by a previous or current employer
  3. Pass the examination administered by the National Elevator Industry Educational Program. For more information, contact them at 800-228-8220
  4. Expect an answer from the Department of Labor & Industries in regards to the license

Temporary Elevator Mechanic (Category 09):

  1. Complete 75% of the education and experience requirements in the area of specialty
  2. Reach out to the Labor & Industries Department to obtain the license

The Temporary Elevator Mechanic (Category 09) license is usually given to elevator trainees or apprentices enrolled in a qualifying program, qualified, out-of-state, licensed mechanics working temporarily in Washington, and qualified mechanics who are waiting on their permanent credentials to be approved by L&I. These licenses may be restricted to a specific conveyance or a geographical area. Note that a licensed elevator contractor must certify the licensee's qualifications and competency to obtain the license and that his license is only valid for a year, after which it may be renewed.

Emergency Elevator Mechanic (Category 10):

  1. Must have an acceptable combination of documented experience and education to perform elevator work without direct and immediate supervision
    • This is only issued during a declared state of emergency and is only valid for 30 days
  2. Contact the department for license issuance

Contacts & Useful Links for Elevator Licenses in Washington

Contact Information for Elevator Licenses

Washington State Department of Labor & Industries

Elevator Program
PO Box 44480
Olympia WA 98504
Toll-free: 1-800-705-1411
360-902-6130
Fax: 360-902-6132
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National Elevator Industry Educational Program

Educational Program
11 Larsen Way, Attleboro Falls,
MA 02763
800-228-8220
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Useful Links for Elevator Contractor Licenses


Mobile Home Installation Certifications

In the State of Washington, the installation of mobile homes must be performed by an installer certified by the Labor & Industries Department. The Manufactured/Mobile Home Installer is currently the only Home Installation license offered by the Factory Assembled Structures (FAS) Advisory Board, which allows a person to perform the following installation work regarding home installation of construction of the foundation, assembly of the home, connecting the home to utilities and application of the skirting.

How to get a Manufactured/Mobile Home Installer license in Washington?

  1. Fill out and submit a completed Application for Manufactured Home Installer Training and Certification, along with the corresponding fee
    • Issue a check or money order addressed to the Department of Labor & Industries and mail it to their PO Box: Factory Assembled Structures PO Box 44420 Olympia WA 98504-4420
    • Note that applications must be received before the cutoff date, or else the application might be scheduled for the next available class
  2. Take the training course offered by the Department of Labor & Industries, which may be accessed online, and pass the 3-hour examination with a minimum score of 70%
    • The applicant must wait for application approval to take the training and examination
  3. If approved, expect the department to issue the Installer Certification License

The Program also offers a “Training Only" option, which allows a person to take the training course without the exam. This option is usually preferred by any individual interested in the training content without needing certification.

For more information regarding the license requirements and examination details, please refer to the L&I website or contact The Board by phone at 1-800-705-1411 Option 3 or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Mobile Home Installation Certifications Contact Information & Useful Links

Useful Links

Contact Information

Washington State Department of Labor & Industries

7273 Linderson Way SW
Tumwater, WA 98501-5414
Toll-free:1-800-647-0982
360-902-5226
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Factory Assembled Structures Advisory Board

7273 Linderson Way SW
Tumwater, WA 98501
Toll-free: 1-800-705-1411 Option 3
Fax: 360-902-5229
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Boilers Licenses

The Boiler Program is in charge of issuing Boiler permits and performing inspections for boilers and pressure vessels in the State of Washington. The Boiler Program currently offers two licenses related to Boiler work; Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspector and Boiler Operator

For inspectors, the Program issues a work card through The Department of Labor & Industries, which allows an inspector to perform work within the state. As for the Boiler Operator license, a license is not needed in the State of Washington. Nonetheless, three cities are the exception to this since they require a valid license to perform Boiler work. These cities, along with their licensure information and contact numbers, are listed below:

How to get the Washington Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspector License?

In the state of Washington, all Boiler and Pressure vessel inspectors must have a "work card" issued by L&I. The applicant must meet the following steps to qualify for a work card.

  1. Submit an Application for Certificate of Competency as an Inspector of Pressure Retaining Items
    • Note that the application must be received 30 days before the examination date
  2. Take and pass the National Board and the Washington State boiler examination
  3. Submit the corresponding examination fee

Boilers Licenses Contact Information & Useful Links

Useful Links

Contact Information

Boiler & Pressure Vessel Program

Washington State Department of Labor & Industries
Boiler/Pressure Vessel Program
PO Box 44410
Olympia WA 98504-4410
360-902-6400
Fax: 360-902-5292
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Washington State Department of Labor & Industries

7273 Linderson Way SW
Tumwater, WA 98501-5414
Toll-free:1-800-647-0982
360-902-5226
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Jamie Brown, Secretary Supervisor

360-902-5271
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National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors

1055 Crupper Avenue
Columbus, Ohio 43229-1183
Phone:614-888-8320
Fax: 614-888-0750
Email:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.


Asbestos Licenses

In the State of Washington, Asbestos Licenses are regulated by the Asbestos Certification Program through the Department of Labor & Industries. These licenses allow a person to perform asbestos-related work on construction sites, and they are categorized into three different classifications, Asbestos Contractor License, Asbestos Supervisor License and Asbestos Worker License.

How to get an Asbestos License in Washington?

To obtain any of the three Asbestos Licenses, the applicant must follow the steps that pertain to the license chosen.

  1. Meet the pre-requirements for the desired license:
    • The Asbestos Supervisor License requires at least 1600 hours of experience in one or more of the following subjects:
      • Asbestos abatement
      • Asbestos project design
      • Consultation on asbestos abatement projects
      • Asbestos operations and maintenance program supervision
      • Asbestos construction project supervision
    • The Asbestos Contractor license requires an active contractor registration with the Department of Labor & Industries and a Washington-certified Asbestos Supervisor on the applicant’s payroll
    • The Asbestos Worker License does not have any pre-requisites
  2. Complete and approve the training course with an exam score of 70% or higher
    • For an Asbestos Supervisor License, the applicant must attend the 40-hour training course and must pass a 100-question multiple-choice exam
    • For an Asbestos Worker License, the applicant must take a 32-hour training course and a 50-question multiple-choice exam
    • Asbestos Contractor License does not require an exam
  3. Fill out and submit an initial application notarized by an approved training course sponsor (the training course sponsor requirement does not apply to the Asbestos Contractor application)
  4. Pay the corresponding fee to The Department of Labor & Industries
  5. Expect an answer from the Department regarding the Certification card. Please note that cards may take up to 6 weeks to arrive

Please note that Asbestos licenses are valid for one year after course completion (for Workers and Supervisors) and one year after contractor registration with the Department (for Contractors). After that time, the applicant must renew their certificate. For further questions, please contact the Asbestos Program at 360-902-5435 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Asbestos Licenses Contact Information & Useful Links

Useful Links

Contact Information

Asbestos Certification

Washington State Department of Labor & Industries
Asbestos Certification Program
PO Box 44614
Olympia WA 98504-4614
360-902-5435
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Washington State Department of Labor & Industries

7273 Linderson Way SW
Tumwater, WA 98501-5414
Toll-free:1-800-647-0982
360-902-5226
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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