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Compiled from official state licensing boards · Updated May 2026
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How to Become a General Contractor in Colorado (2026)

Step-by-step path to becoming a licensed general contractor in Colorado: experience hours, apprenticeship, exams, fees and license tiers for 2026.

The license tiers in Colorado

1
General Contractor (Municipal)
contractor · exam required

Informational only — not legal advice, and not an official government resource. Licensing rules change; always confirm against the official board source linked on this page before you renew, apply, or make a business decision. Trade Cert Hub is independent and not affiliated with any state licensing board.

Step by step

  1. 1

    Get trained and start logging hours

    Begin documented work experience under a licensed general contractor. Keep careful records — the board will want proof of your hours.

  2. 2

    Accumulate the required experience

    Complete roughly 7 years of qualifying experience before applying.

  3. 3

    Pass the Colorado licensing exam

    Apply to test and pass the general contractor (municipal) exam, administered through ICC. Study the current IBC edition your state enforces.

  4. 4

    Apply, pay, and get licensed

    Submit your application to Municipal and pay the $250 application fee. Once licensed, you renew on a set cycle and complete continuing education to keep it active.

Get exam-ready

The Colorado general contractor exam trips up a lot of first-timers. Practice tests and study guides shorten the path.

General Contractor exam prep with Trade Exam Academy

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to become a general contractor in Colorado?
Plan on roughly 7+ years from apprentice to your first independent license, depending on how quickly you log hours and pass the exam.
Do I need to pass an exam?
Yes — Colorado requires a licensing exam, administered through ICC. Trade-knowledge and business-and-law sections are common.
What does it cost to get licensed?
The initial application fee is $250. Budget extra for exam fees, study materials, and (at the contractor tier) a bond and insurance.

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