contractor license
District of Columbia Contractor License Bond Requirements
The contractor license bond District of Columbia requires as a condition of holding a contractor license or registration: the required amount, the statute behind it, and how the bond is filed with DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP).
Application process
The bond is filed with DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) as part of the contractor license or registration application (or renewal). The surety issues the bond on the state's required form naming the state as obligee; most contractors qualify on the owners' personal credit and the bond is often issued the same day. Note this is the license bond only, project bid, performance, and payment bonds are separate obligations posted per job.
Renewals
The bond must stay continuously in force for the license to remain active. Sureties renew the bond on its own term and file continuation certificates; a lapse or cancellation is reported to DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) and can suspend the license.
Local jurisdictions in District of Columbia may layer their own permit or license bond requirements on top of the statewide bond. Confirm the current required amount with DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) before filing.
Key statutes
- Home improvement contractor bond (D.C. Code § 47-2883.02) . District law requires home improvement contractors to file a bond for consumer protection as part of licensure; confirm the current amount with DLCP.