How to Get a Washington Electrical and Telecommunications Contractor License
This guide is for informational purposes only. SuretyBonds.com does not regulate or manage contractor licenses. Contact the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries for the latest official requirements.
Washington Electrical Contractor License Guide
If you are doing any electrical or telecommunications work covered by Washington electrical laws, you need a state license and bond.
Learn how to get your Washington electrical and telecommunications contractor license with this complete guide.
What Is an Electrical and Telecommunications Contractor License?
A Washington electrical contractor license allows businesses to install, repair, and maintain electrical systems and wiring. Contractors may also perform telecommunications work if appropriately certified.
This license is required for any individual business performing work covered by state electrical laws.
Who Needs an Electrical Contractor License?
You need a Washington electrical contractor license if your business performs:
- General electrical installations or repairs
- Limited energy or low-voltage electrical work (e.g., security, HVAC or data systems with power supplies)
- Telecommunications work that involves electrical components or connections
Note: A license is not required for telecommunications work that does not involve any electrical systems.
How to Apply for Your Washington Electrical Contractor License
To apply for your electrical contractor license from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries, follow these four steps.
Step 1: Ensure eligibility
You must have an active Washington Master Electrician or Electrical Administrator license. If you're hiring employees, you'll also need to set up a workers’ compensation insurance account with L&I.
Step 2: Register for a UBI number
Register your business with the Washington Department of Revenue to obtain a Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number.
Step 3: Obtain surety bond
Purchase a $4,000 surety bond as proof of financial security. You can buy your bond instantly online for $110.
Step 4: Submit the application
Download and complete the Application for Electrical or Telecommunications Contractor License (F500-018-000) from the L&I website. Submit the application form to the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries along with the following:
- Proof of a $4,000 surety bond
- Your UBI number
- Payment for the $306 application fee
- Proof of workers’ compensation insurance (if hiring employees)
The Department of Labor & Industries usually takes about 8–10 weeks to review and approve electrical contractor license applications.
What Are the Insurance and Bond Requirements for Electrical Contractors?
Washington requires electrical contractors to submit proof of these types of insurance and bond coverage:
- A $4,000 surety bond
- A certificate of liability insurance (telecommunications contractors only)
- An industrial insurance account (if hiring employees)
Your surety bond and insurance documents must match the legal name of your business exactly. Submit the original copies with your application.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Washington Electrical Contractor License?
The typical costs associated with getting an electrical and telecommunications contractor license include:
- Administrator or Master Electrician certificate fee: $80.10
- Application fee: $306
- Administrator assignment form fee: $39.90
- Surety bond: Starts at $100 (based on credit)
- Liability insurance: Based on provider rates
Expect the total licensing costs to range from $400 to $700+, depending on bond and insurance rates and admin needs.
Renewing Your Electrical Contractor License
You’ll need to renew your electrical contractor license online every two years. You must include:
- Proof of a renewed, active surety bond
- No outstanding citations
- Proof of a current assigned administrator
The renewal fee is $240 every two years. If your license expires for over 90 days, you’ll have to contact [email protected] for renewal assistance.
Last Updated: May 16, 2025
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