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
How do I renew my license?
We are unable to renew licenses online at this time, please contact our office at 1-800-955-3044 or e-mail us at customer.service@dbs.idaho.gov for further information.
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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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 or Plumbing?
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?
Yes. After December 31, 2013, plumbing journeyman and contractors will be required to have the minimum hours of continuing education to renew their license. For every three years you hold a valid Plumbing Journeyman license you are required to obtain four (4) hours of code update or complete an exam administered by the Division of Building Safety and four (4) hours of industry related courses. For every three years you hold a valid Plumbing Contractor license you are required to obtain sixteen (16) hours of continuing education. Hours accrued obtaining journeyman education may be applied toward this requirement whenever applicable.
Beginning January 1, 2013, those holding a valid license journeyman license may take the CEU exam administered by the Division of Building Safety. A fee of fifty ($50) dollars must be paid before taking the exam. Click here for information regarding CEU’s.
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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