Contractor License Requirements in Indiana

Indiana does not require a state-level general contractor license. However, certain specialty trades such as electricians and plumbers must be licensed. Many local jurisdictions in Indiana have their own contractor registration and licensing requirements that may be more stringent than state-level regulations. Indiana does not require a state-level general contractor license. Electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors are licensed at the state level. Many cities and counties require contractor registration. The Indiana Residential Code sets building standards but does not mandate contractor licensing.

Important

Never hire a contractor who cannot provide a valid license number. A legitimate contractor will have no hesitation sharing their license credentials for you to verify independently. If a contractor refuses, discourages you from checking, or makes excuses, treat that as a serious red flag.

Indiana Professional Licensing Agency

Search by: License number, Last name, First name

Follow these steps to verify a contractor's license in Indiana:

1. 1
   Understand Indiana's licensing structureIndiana does not require a state-level general contractor license. The state licenses electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors. For general contractors, check your local city or county requirements.
2. 2
   Search the Indiana license verification systemVisit mylicense.in.gov for trade-specific license verification. Select the appropriate profession type (Electrician, Plumber, or HVAC) and enter the contractor's license number or name.
3. 3
   Verify the trade license statusFor electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors, confirm the license is active and current. Check the license level (journeyman, master, etc.) to ensure it covers the scope of your project.
4. 4
   Check local registration requirementsContact your city or county building department to verify if the contractor holds any required local registration. Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, and other cities have their own contractor requirements.
5. 5
   Request proof of insuranceSince Indiana does not require insurance at the state level for general contractors, ask the contractor for a current certificate of general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. Verify the certificate is legitimate and the coverage is adequate.

What to Look for in Verification Results

• For trade licenses, verify the license is active through the state system
• Check local registration requirements for general contractors
• Request proof of general liability and workers' compensation insurance
• License level (journeyman vs. master) must match the work scope
• Check for any disciplinary actions with the licensing agency
• Verify the contractor's identity matches the license holder

Hiring an unlicensed contractor in Indiana carries significant risks for both the homeowner and the contractor:

• No consumer protections: State recovery funds and guaranty programs typically only cover work performed by licensed contractors.
• Insurance issues: Your homeowner's insurance may deny claims related to work done by an unlicensed contractor.
• Permit problems: Building permits often require a valid contractor license. Work done without permits can create issues when selling your property.
• Quality concerns: Licensed contractors have demonstrated minimum competency through exams, experience requirements, or both.
• Legal liability: Homeowners may bear greater legal responsibility for injuries or property damage caused during unlicensed work.

Indiana does not currently have reciprocal contractor licensing agreements with other states. Contractors licensed in other states must apply for a new Indiana license through the standard application process. Some states may credit out-of-state experience toward licensing requirements -- contact the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency for details.