Licensing, bonds, and workers comp change at the state line.
Contractor rules vary a lot by state, and getting them wrong can stop a job or blow up an audit. Pick your state for a plain-language overview of licensing, bonds, workers comp, and public works, with the official sources to verify it.
Where do you work?
Eleven western states. Each page is general information, not legal advice, and links the official board or agency to confirm current rules.
Oregon
CCB endorsements, bond by type, $30k public works bond.
View →California
CSLB license, $1,000 threshold, $25k bond, DIR public works.
View →Washington
L&I registration and the monopolistic state workers comp fund.
View →Idaho
Registration over $2,000, liability required, separate public works license.
View →Utah
DOPL license, $3,000 threshold, coverage waivers.
View →Nevada
NSCB license limit, bond scaled to limit, sub deemed-employee rule.
View →Arizona
ROC license, bond by class and volume, Recovery Fund.
View →Montana
2026 license change; no out-of-state workers comp in construction.
View →Colorado
Local GC licensing, state trades, strict construction workers comp.
View →Texas
Local GC licensing, largely optional workers comp, statutory public works bonds.
View →New Mexico
Statewide CID license, $10k bond, licensure triggers workers comp.
View →Last verified June 2026. Licensing, bond, and workers comp rules change and vary by project and locality. Always confirm current requirements with the state board or agency before you bid, hire, or buy coverage.
Reviewed for insurance accuracy by Richard Sweet, Vantage Point Risk. Last reviewed July 16, 2026. How we review this.
Not sure what your state requires?
Tell us your trade and where you work, and we will line up coverage, bonds, and workers comp with your state's rules.