Building a Safer Idaho

Frequently Asked Questions - Licenses

General

 
 
How can I determine if I need to be licensed in:
ELECTRICAL: Click here or contact the DBS office at 800-955-3044
HVAC: Click here or contact the DBS office at 800-955-3044
MANUFACTURED HOUSING: Click here or contact the DBS office at 800-955-3044
PLUMBING: Click here or contact the DBS office at 800-955-3044
PUBLIC WORKS CONTRACTORS: Click here or contact the DBS office at 800-955-3044
What happens if I choose to work unlicensed?
Persons who perform electrical, HVAC or plumbing work without a required state-issued license or who violate other applicable codes or rules are subject to civil penalties.
It is unlawful to engage in public works contracting without first having acquired an Idaho Public Works Contractor License of the proper class. The Division of Building Safety may impose substantial administrative assessments for contractor violations.
It is unlawful to engage in construction management services on public works projects without first having acquired an Idaho Construction Manager License. Violations of this provision may result in significant administrative assessments.
Does Idaho have any Reciprocal licensing agreements?
Yes. The states that Idaho has an agreement with are listed in the Reciprocal_info.pdf document.
I am a landscaper and install sprinkler systems. Do I need to be licensed with DBS?
No. Landscapers and sprinkler installers do not need to be licensed with DBS. You may, however, need to be registered with the Idaho Bureau of Occupational Licensing (IBOL). You can reach them at (208) 334-3233 or on the Web at www.ibol.idaho.gov. Once you've registered with IBOL, DBS will establish an account allowing you to obtain permits.
I am an excavator and install sewer and water lines. Do I need to be licensed with DBS?
No. Sewer and water line installers do not need to be licensed with DBS. You may, however, need to be registered with the Idaho Bureau of Occupational Licensing (IBOL). You can reach them at (208) 334-3233 or on the Web at www.ibol.idaho.gov. Once you've registered with IBOL, DBS will establish an account allowing you to obtain permits.

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Exams

What happens after I submit an application to take an exam?
DBS will review your application. If it is approved, you will receive a test packet in the mail and will be registered to test on the International Code Commission web site. You will then have up to sixty days to take your examination. If your application is denied, you will receive a letter in the mail letting you know what actions you will need to take in order to become eligible to take the requested test.
What testing agency/agencies administer and conduct the Division of Building Safety (DBS) exams?
After your application has been approved, DBS will mail you information explaining how to register for the requested exam. Plumbing exams are administered by Gainesville Independent Testing Services (GITS) and Pearson VUE. Contact GITS by phone at (800) 997-2129 or (352) 369-4487 or on the Web at www.gitsllc.org. Contact Pearson VUE by phone at (877) 234-6082 or on the Web at www.pearsonvue.com. Electrical and HVAC exams are administered by Pearson VUE. Contact information is the same as for plumbing exams.
How can I order a Public Works Contractor study guide?
• The Class D study guide is included only with mailed out applications. It consists of various Idaho Codes and Administrative Rules that pertain to Public Works Contractor licensing. Select the link above or find these Rules under "Rules, Statutes & Legislation/Current Statutes & Rules Packets' on our web site.
• The Class Unlimited, AAA, AA, A, B or C study guide is referred to as the Idaho Business Procedures Reference Manual and the Code of Federal Regulations – Title 29, Part 1926 (OSHA). The manuals can be purchased by calling (800) 997-2129.
What Public Works Contractor test will I need to take?
• If you're applying for a Class D license, you must complete the Class D Examination (pwf-106) included with the application (or available by clicking here) and submit it with the application. Once your application has been approved and you have passed your examination with a score of 70% or higher your license will be issued.
• If you are applying for a Class Unlimited, AAA, AA, A, B or C license you must complete the License Examination Information form (pwf-106a) and submit it with your application. Once your application has been approved, you will be notified by GITS to schedule your examination at one of their testing facilities. Your license will be issued when we receive confirmation from GITS that you attained a score of 70% or higher.

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CEU's

Does the State of Idaho have Continuing Education Requirements (CEU) for Electricians?
Yes. For every three years you hold a valid Electrical Journeyman or Masters license you are required to obtain sixteen (16) hours of code update and eight (8) hours of an Industry related course. Click here for a complete list of CEU courses [PDF] that have been approved by the State of Idaho.
Where do I find the Continuing Education (CEU) applications and documents for Electrical?
Continuing Education information is found at the bottom of the license information page.
Will the State of Idaho accept CEU's that were obtained out of state?
Idaho will accept most CEU courses taken in Montana, Oregon, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming.
Does the State of Idaho have Continuing Education Requirements (CEU) for Plumbers?
IDAPA has recently been changed to require continuing education requirements for plumbers. The Division of building Safety in conjunction with the State Plumbing Board are developing a plan for implementing the provisions of the statute.
Does the State of Idaho have Continuing Education Requirements (CEU) for HVAC?
There is no continuing education requirement for HVAC at this time.

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