Contractors who conduct business in the state of Alabama are required to maintain an active contractor license issued by the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors. A license is a document that authorizes contractors to operate within the state legally and ensures they have met the requirements to provide quality services to their clients. As with any professional license, a contractor’s license must be renewed periodically. In Alabama, contractors are required to renew their licenses every two years. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about Alabama contractor license renewal.
Renewal Requirements
There are a few basic requirements for Alabama contractor license renewal:
Up-to-date Insurance: Contractors must maintain active general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Copies must be provided with the renewal application.
Continuing Education: 12 hours of approved continuing education are required per renewal period. Courses cover topics like safety, codes, and new construction techniques.
Good Standing: Contractor license must be current and not suspended or revoked to be eligible for renewal.
Pay renewal fee – The fee depends on your license type and classification. It ranges from $100 to $350.
Complete renewal application – Download the application from the licensing board website and submit all required information.
Continuing Education
Contractors licensed in Alabama are required to complete 14 hours of approved continuing education courses every two years in order to renew their license. Courses must cover relevant topics like business practices, project management, technical trades skills, and construction codes and regulations. Licensees must submit documentation that proves they have met the continuing education requirement when applying for license renewal.
Take and Pass the Exam
There are two types of exams – a trade-specific exam that tests knowledge in the applicant’s chosen field, like electrical or plumbing, and a business and law exam that covers management, compliance, and regulations. Both exams must be passed independently with a score of at least 70% to qualify for a reinstated license.
Renewal ApplicationThe renewal application can be found on the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors website. It collects basic contact and license information. To renew an Alabama contractors license, contractors should take the following steps:Ensure all license renewal requirements have been met, including continuing education courses.Download the renewal application form from the Licensing Board website under the “Forms” section.
Fill out the application form completely and accurately. Be sure to sign and date where required.
Gather proof of insurance documents and continuing education certificates.
Calculate and enclose the $100 renewal fee as a check or money order made out to the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors.
Mail the complete renewal packet 4-6 weeks before the expiration date to allow time for processing.
Confirm receipt and approval by checking online license verification or calling the Licensing Board office.
Renewal Deadlines
The key deadline for renewing an Alabama contractors license is the expiration date printed on the license. However, contractors should apply for renewal at least 4-6 weeks prior to expiration to allow time for processing and avoid license suspension. If the application is received after expiration, a late fee will be assessed. Licensees have a 60-day grace period after expiration to renew before the license is canceled. Reinstatement after cancellation requires re-examination.
Reinstating an Expired License
If a contractor fails to renew the license before the 60 day grace period ends, the license will be administratively cancelled. In this case, the license can be reinstated by:
Submitting a reinstatement application and paying a fee
Providing proof all renewal requirements were met promptly
Retaking the contractor exam
Paying any past-due renewal fees, taxes, or fines
The reinstatement process can take several weeks, so it is important contractors plan and submit complete renewal applications before expiration.
Renewal Reminders
Contractors receive renewal notices by mail and email from the licensing board in advance. It’s wise to start the process at least 3 months prior to expiration. This will provide ample time for completing any necessary continuing education courses and gathering required documents. Additionally, it is important to keep contact information up-to-date with the licensing board to ensure timely receipt of renewal notices. Failure to receive a renewal notice does not exempt a contractor from the responsibility of renewing on time.
Conclusion
By understanding the renewal process and requirements, staying organized, allowing sufficient processing time, and meeting deadlines, contractors can ensure their Alabama license remains active without interruption to serve clients and run their businesses legally in the state. Letting the license expire can impact operations and generate additional fees and hassle. With proper planning, Alabama contractors license renewal is straightforward.
