Minnesota Contractor License Bond Guide
If you are applying for a contractor license in Minnesota, you'll likely need to purchase a surety bond. Learn about the various bond types and bonding process in this guide.
Bond Overview
- Purpose: To protect the public from financial harm if a contractor fails to perform
- Who Needs It: Contractors in most trades as well as those working in certain cities
- Regulating Body: The Department of Labor and Industry and municipal licensing departments
- Required Amounts: Vary based on the location and/or license type
- Premium Rates: Start at $50, vary based on the bond type, amount, and risk
What Is a Minnesota Contractor License Bond?
Minnesota contractor license bonds protect the public from financial harm if a contractor fails to perform or meet their license requirements. Filing a surety bond is a requirement before receiving various Minnesota specialty contractor licenses or doing construction work in several cities.
How Much Do Minnesota Contractor Bonds Cost?
Minnesota contractor license bond premiums start as low as $50 per year and many are available for instant online purchase. Bond coverage and pricing varies based on the bond and license type. Select your bond to get an exact quote.
Don’t see your bond? Call 1 (800) 308-4358 for assistance.
Who Needs a Minnesota Contractor License Bond?
The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry requires contractors who work in the following trades to keep an active surety bond on file in conjunction with their state license:
- Electrical
- Elevator
- High-pressure pipefitting
- Mechanical
- Plumbing
- Residential roofing
- Satellite systems
- Sign installation
- Technology system
- Water conditioning
Additionally, if you work in one of the cities listed in the table above, you must file a bond before receiving your local contractor compliance permit.
If you work in multiple states, we offer contractor license bonds nationwide.
How to Get a Minnesota Contractor Bond
With SuretyBonds.com, you can get most Minnesota contractor license bonds instantly online. Simply find the bond you need and enter your information. You’ll receive your official bond confirmation in minutes via email.
A few Minnesota contractor bonds require a quick application review to determine pricing. If so, apply online and a representative will contact you within one business day to discuss your quote.
How Fast Can I Get My Bond?
SuretyBonds.com offers the fastest and easiest way to get contractor bonds. You can purchase most Minnesota contractor license bonds instantly online 24/7. No application required!
If your obligee requires the original bond form with wet signatures, we offer an overnight shipping option.
How Do Minnesota Contract Bonds Work?
Minnesota contractor bonds protect consumers who could be harmed by defective construction or other license noncompliance as well as any unpaid employees, subcontractors, or suppliers.
Under the surety bond, contractors agree to complete work according to any applicable state or city construction law such as:
- Adhering to building codes
- Paying taxes on time
- Performing quality and timely work
If the terms are breached, the surety company will pay out valid claims to harmed parties up to the full bond amount.
Who Regulates Minnesota Contractor Licensing?
The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry enforces contractor license and bond requirements at the state level. In addition, the Department of Revenue requires non-resident contractors to file a tax bond before working in Minnesota.
Some cities enforce additional local contractor license and bond requirements. Contact your city’s licensing authority for specific information.
How to Get a Contractor License in Minnesota
Learn how to get a Minnesota plumbing contractor license by reviewing our step-by-step guide. If you need another specialty contractor license type, complete the following steps to become a licensed contractor in Minnesota:
- Pass the pre-licensing exam
- Apply for your license online
- Submit a copy of your certificate of incorporation (if applicable)
- Submit a background disclosure form
- Submit any other other applicable documents for licensure
If you need to be licensed in a specific city or county in Minnesota, contact your local contractor licensing office for application instructions.
More Resources
- Minnesota DLI: Electrical Contractor Licensing
- Minnesota DLI: Mechanical Contractor Bond Requirements
- Minnesota DLI: Plumbing Contractor Licensing
- Minnesota DLI: Residential Roofer Licensing
- Minnesota DLI: Sign Contractor Licensing
- Minnesota Pollution Control Agency: SSTS Business Licensing
- Technology Systems Contractor Licensing
- Water Conditioning Contractor Licensing
- Brainerd: Contractor Licensing
- Minneapolis: Residential Specialty Contractor License Application
- St. Paul: Sidewalk Contractor Licensing
