Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Trades
General Contractor Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for general contractor in Washington, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for General Contractor in Washington
Estimated timeline: 2-5 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Individuals must pass an operator training course and a written examination.
- 6
Incinerator certifications cost $200 for certification, $50 application fee, $160 textbook costs.
- 7
Landfill operators must have a high school diploma or GED, must pass the required examination, must have 5 years of MSW management experience and 2 years of operating experience.
Exam and processing details
- written examination
Continuing education and program notes
- certifications cost $200 for certification, $50 application fee, $160 textbook costs
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Incinerator certifications | $200 |
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Ecology
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$136,180 median (27% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for General Contractor licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required written examination.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.; Incinerator certifications cost $200 for certification, $50 application fee, $160 textbook costs.).
- 6. Budget filing costs (Incinerator certifications: $200).
- 7. Submit the application to Department of Ecology and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $136,180, General Contractors in Washington earn 27% above the national median of $106,980. Washington ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 2-5 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$136,180Hourly estimate
$65.4727% above national median
Difference: +$29,200
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationGeneral Contractor Salary Ranking
#2 of 50 statesfor General Contractor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Massachusetts | $147,750 |
| #2 | Washington | $136,180 |
| #3 | Alaska | $135,630 |
| #4 | New York | $135,530 |
| #5 | Delaware | $135,200 |
Nearby States Comparison
General Contractor licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Ecology
300 Desmond Dr, Lacey, WA, 98503-1274
Phone: 3604076000
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $85,010 | No educational requirements | 8 years |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $57,790 | No educational requirements | 8 years |
| Carpenter | $73,260 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $89,360 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a General Contractor in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 2-5 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for General Contractors in Washington?
Washington lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for General Contractors.
What education do you need to become a General Contractor in Washington?
The board typically expects Specific course required for General Contractor licensure in Washington.
What is the typical General Contractor salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for General Contractors in Washington is $136,180. Salaries range from $92,310 (10th percentile) to $207,190 (90th percentile).
How does the General Contractor salary in Washington compare to the national average?
General Contractors in Washington earn 27% above the national median of $106,980, with a state median of $136,180.
How many General Contractors work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 6,550 General Contractors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my General Contractor license to Washington from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for General Contractors in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Ecology. Review agency details at http://www.ecy.wa.gov/.
How often do you renew a General Contractor license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.