Virginia Contractor License Classes —
Class A vs B vs C Explained
Updated project limits, key differences, and how to choose the right class the first time — so you are not back here upgrading six months later.
Class C allows projects up to just under $30,000 per project and $250,000 annually. Class B allows projects up to just under $150,000 per project and just under $1,000,000 annually. Class A has no project or annual limits. You choose your class during the pre-application phase — before submitting your DPOR application.
The Three Virginia Contractor License Classes
Your license class determines the size of work you can legally perform. It is one of the most consequential decisions in the licensing process — and one of the most common sources of avoidable rework.
- ✓ Fastest entry point into licensing
- ✓ No Business/Law exam required
- ✓ Good for smaller residential jobs
- → Annual cap limits earning potential
- → Many contractors outgrow it quickly
- ✓ Covers many mid-size residential & commercial
- ✓ Business/Law exam required (no prior approval needed)
- ✓ Balance of access and earning potential
- ✓ Can upgrade to Class A later
- ✓ No project or annual dollar restrictions
- ✓ Maximum business flexibility
- ✓ Business/Law exam required (no prior approval needed)
- → Stricter financial & experience requirements
At a Glance
| Class | Project Limit | Annual Limit | Business/Law Exam | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | <$30,000 | $250,000 | Not required | Entry-level, smaller jobs |
| B | <$150,000 | <$1,000,000 | Required | Growing contractors |
| A | Unlimited | Unlimited | Required | Large-scale / no limits |
When You Choose Your License Class
Your license class is part of the pre-application phase. You can choose it at any point before submitting your application — but it must be finalized before applying. If you need to upgrade later, that requires a separate application and additional exams.
Think Long-Term
Many contractors choose too low based on where they are today — not where they are going. If you plan to grow, choosing the right class now avoids the time and cost of upgrading later.
Business/Law Exam Timing (Important)
For Class A and B, the Business/Law exam is required — but it does not require DPOR approval beforehand. You can take it anytime. However, if you submit your application before passing it, DPOR will hold your application until you have passed it. The most efficient path is to pass the exam before submitting.
See the complete Virginia contractor license process step by step to understand where your class choice fits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Prepare for Your Exam?
Live, in-person exam prep for Virginia Class A, B & C. One class. One session. Seats are limited.