Here's something most Indiana homeowners don't know: Indiana doesn't require a state-wide general contractor license. That means almost anyone can call themselves a "contractor" — which makes verification even more important.

Key Point

While Indiana doesn't require state licensing for general contractors, many cities (including Indianapolis) have their own requirements. And specialty trades like electrical and plumbing DO require state licenses.

What Licenses ARE Required in Indiana?

State-Level Licenses (Required)

These trades require licensing through the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency:

Electricians — Must be licensed through the state
Plumbers — State license required
HVAC Contractors — Required for refrigerant handling
Home Inspectors — State licensed

Indianapolis/Marion County Requirements

In Indianapolis, contractors must register with the Department of Business & Neighborhood Services for projects over $1,000. They need:

Contractor registration certificate
Proof of insurance
Passing score on competency exam (for some trades)

How to Verify: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Check State Licenses (Specialty Trades)

For electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors, search the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency database:

Website: mylicense.in.gov/everification

Search by name or license number. Verify the license is active and not expired.

Step 2: Check Indianapolis Contractor Registration

For general contractors working in Indianapolis/Marion County:

Contact: Indianapolis Department of Business & Neighborhood Services

Phone: (317) 327-8700

Call to verify a contractor is registered and in good standing.

Step 3: Verify Business Registration

Confirm the business is registered with the Indiana Secretary of State:

Website: Indiana Business Entity Search

This confirms the business legally exists and is in good standing.

Step 4: Check for Complaints

Search multiple sources for complaint history:

Better Business Bureau: bbb.org
Indiana Attorney General: Consumer complaint database
Marion County Courts: Search for civil lawsuits

Suburban Indianapolis Requirements

Requirements vary by municipality. Here are some common ones:

City	Requirements
Carmel	Contractor registration required
Fishers	Building permit includes contractor verification
Noblesville	Contractor registration required for permits
Westfield	Registration required
Zionsville	Contact building department

Warning: License Fraud

Some dishonest contractors will show you fake or expired licenses, or licenses belonging to someone else. Always:

Verify independently — never trust documents they provide
Call the licensing authority directly
Check that the name matches their business name exactly
Confirm the license covers the type of work you need

What If They're Not Licensed?

If a contractor can't provide proper licensing:

Don't hire them — regardless of how good their price is
Work may not pass inspection — creating problems when you sell
Insurance may not cover damage — from unlicensed work
No legal recourse — harder to sue unlicensed contractors
You could be liable — if a worker is injured

How to Check if a Contractor is Licensed in Indiana