Contractor License Practice Exam

Is it legal for building and permits departments to issue a permit to a contractor without a contractor's license number?

1. Yes

2. No

3. Only under special circumstances

4. Depends on the project

The correct answer is: No

It is against regulations for building and permits departments to issue a permit to a contractor who does not possess a valid contractor's license number. This requirement is established to ensure that all work performed by contractors meets the necessary standards of quality, safety, and adherence to local laws. The licensing process serves to verify the contractor’s qualifications, experience, and knowledge of the applicable building codes. Contractors are required to demonstrate their competence through a licensing process, which protects the public by ensuring that only qualified individuals are authorized to perform construction-related work. Issuing permits without verifying the contractor’s licensing status could lead to unqualified parties operating in the construction industry, potentially resulting in substandard work, safety hazards, and legal liabilities. Permitting departments are tasked with upholding the standards of the industry, and allowing permits to be issued without confirming a contractor’s licensing status would compromise these objectives. Therefore, the legal framework mandates that a contractor must provide their license number for the permit application to be processed properly.