Utah Contractor License Bonds$15,000-$50,000 DOPL Requirements

Utah Code 58-55-306 requires contractors who don't meet financial responsibility standards to post surety bonds. Bond amounts are $50,000 for B100/E100 licenses, $25,000 for R100 licenses, and $15,000 for specialty licenses. The law protects consumers from contractor violations.

Utah contractors must post bonds if they have: delinquent payments within 2 years (taxes, payroll, debts), bankruptcy filed within 7 years, judgments within 5 years, or negative net worth. Contractors meeting financial responsibility may be exempt.

Utah contractor bond costs range from $225-$1,500 annually depending on bond amount and credit. B100/E100 bonds ($50,000) cost $750-$1,500. R100 bonds ($25,000) cost $375-$750. Specialty bonds ($15,000) cost $225-$450.

B100 (General Building) covers residential and commercial buildings. E100 (General Engineering) covers heavy construction like roads and utilities. R100 (Residential) covers residential structures under 3 stories. B100/E100 require $50,000 bonds, R100 requires $25,000.

Yes, Utah requires contractors to pass a two-part exam: business and law, plus trade-specific exam. The exam tests knowledge of Utah construction law, business practices, and technical skills. Exam preparation courses are strongly recommended.

No, Utah has no reciprocity with neighboring states. Nevada and Idaho require separate contractor licenses with their own bonding and exam requirements. You must obtain individual licenses in each state where you work.

Unlicensed contracting in Utah for projects over $3,000 is a class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail and $2,500 fine. You cannot sue for payment if unlicensed. DOPL actively investigates unlicensed activity.

Utah contractor licenses expire on November 30 of even-numbered years (2-year cycle). All licenses issued before December 1, 2024 expire November 30, 2025. Renewal must be completed before expiration to avoid reinstatement fees.