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Official board data · verified May 2026
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How to Become a General Contractor in Minnesota (2026)

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

Experience
—
Exam
Required
Apprenticeship
Optional
License tiers
1

The license tiers in Minnesota

1
Residential Building Contractor
contractor · exam required

Informational only — not legal advice, and not affiliated with any licensing board. Confirm every figure with the official board before you act. Some links are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Full disclaimer.

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 the experience your tier requires — confirm the exact hours with MN DLI.

  3. 3

    Pass the Minnesota licensing exam

    Apply to test and pass the residential building contractor exam, administered through PSI. Study the current IRC edition your state enforces.

  4. 4

    Apply, pay, and get licensed

    Submit your application to MN DLI and pay the $360 application fee. Once licensed, you renew on a set cycle and complete continuing education to keep it active.

Get exam-ready

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

General Contractor exam prep with @HomePrep

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Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to become a general contractor in Minnesota?
It depends on how fast you accumulate the required experience hours and pass the exam. Most pros take several years to reach an independent license.
Do I need to pass an exam?
Yes — Minnesota requires a licensing exam, administered through PSI. Trade-knowledge and business-and-law sections are common.
What does it cost to get licensed?
The initial application fee is $360. Budget extra for exam fees, study materials, and (at the contractor tier) a bond and insurance.

Never miss a renewal deadline

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