What Is the Virginia Contractor 8-Hour Pre-License Education Course?
If you're applying for a Virginia contractor license, one of the first requirements you'll complete is the Virginia contractor 8-hour pre-license education course.
Many first-time applicants assume this course is a contractor exam or an exam preparation class. It isn't.
The Virginia Board for Contractors requires pre-license education for all new contractor licenses, and it is a separate requirement from the Class A and Class B contractor examinations.
Instead, the course is a basic business course designed to introduce future contractors to the laws, regulations, and responsibilities of operating a licensed contracting business in Virginia.
Who Must Complete the Course?
The required pre-license education depends on the contractor license class you're applying for.
For Class A and Class B contractor licenses, the course must be completed by a member of responsible management (RM) or the designated employee (DE) for the business.
For Class C contractor licenses, the course must be completed by a member of responsible management (RM).
If you're still deciding which contractor license class is right for your business, see Virginia Contractor License Classes Explained.
What Does the Course Cover?
The Virginia contractor pre-license education course is a basic business course.
According to DPOR, it covers relevant regulations, statutes, and requirements that are necessary for every business owner. It is not specific to any particular classification or specialty.
Although individual providers may present the material differently, the course generally introduces contractors to topics such as:
Virginia contractor licensing requirements
Business responsibilities
Contractor laws and regulations
Contracts
Liens
Basic business practices
Other legal and regulatory responsibilities for licensed contractors
The purpose of the course is to help contractors understand the business side of operating a licensed contracting company—not to teach a specific trade.
Is the Course Specific to My Trade?
No.
Every new contractor completes the same basic pre-license education course, regardless of the specialty or classification they plan to pursue.
Whether you're applying for Residential Building (RBC), Commercial Building (CBC), Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC, Home Improvement Contracting (HIC), or another specialty, the required pre-license education is the same.
Is This the Same as the Contractor Exam?
No.
This is one of the most common points of confusion.
The 8-hour pre-license education course is an education requirement.
The Class A and Class B contractor examinations are licensing examinations administered by PSI.
If your chosen specialty also requires a technical examination, that is a separate requirement as well.
Completing the pre-license education course does not replace any required examinations, and passing the examinations does not replace the pre-license education requirement.
For more information, see our Virginia Class A Contractor Exam Guide.
Where Can I Take the Course?
The Virginia Board for Contractors maintains a list of Board-approved pre-license education providers.
Because each provider sets its own schedule, tuition, and course format, you should contact the provider directly for information about:
Course dates
Online or classroom options
Tuition
Required materials
You can find the current list of approved providers on the DPOR Approved Contractor Pre-License Education Providers page.
What Happens After I Complete the Course?
Board-approved providers electronically submit course completion rosters directly to DPOR, so applicants generally do not need to submit proof of completion with their license application. However, DPOR strongly encourages applicants to keep their Certificate of Completion in case the Board requests documentation during the application process.
When you complete your Virginia contractor license application, you'll provide the required pre-license education information as part of the application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Virginia contractor pre-license education course an exam?
No. It is an education requirement, not a licensing examination or an exam preparation course. The required contractor examinations are separate.
Is the course specific to my trade or specialty?
No. The course is a basic business course that covers regulations, statutes, and business requirements applicable to licensed contractors. It is not specific to any classification or specialty.
Where can I find approved course providers?
DPOR maintains a current list of Board-approved contractor pre-license education providers on its website.
Will I receive proof that I completed the course?
Yes. Your provider will issue a Certificate of Completion. Although providers electronically report course completions to DPOR, you should keep your certificate for your records in case the Board requests it during the application process.
