Trade business resources for West Virginia.

West Virginia requires contractors to be licensed through the West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board before performing most construction work in the state. Licensing is mandatory for general contractors and specialty trade contractors performing work above certain dollar thresholds, and working without a license can result in fines and penalties.

State licensing board

West Virginia's Contractor Licensing Board issues licenses to general contractors and specialty contractors, with licensure generally required for any single contract or project valued at $2,500 or more. Specialty contractor categories include electrical, plumbing, HVAC/mechanical, roofing, and other trades, each requiring separate licensure under the appropriate classification. Electricians and plumbers are additionally regulated through separate state boards — the State Fire Marshal's Office oversees electrical licensing and the Division of Labor oversees plumbing — meaning trade contractors in those fields may need both a specialty contractor license and a separate journeyman or master tradesperson credential. General contractors must also carry appropriate general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage as a condition of licensure.

Business registration