How to Upgrade to a Class A
Virginia Contractor License
Upgrading from Class B or C to Class A removes all project and revenue limits. Here is what it takes and how to do it efficiently.
To upgrade your Virginia contractor license to Class A, you must meet the Class A experience and financial requirements, pass the Business/Law exam (if not already passed), and submit an upgrade application to DPOR. Your existing license remains active during the process. Upgrading is not starting over — it is expanding what your current license allows you to do.
Why Contractors Upgrade to Class A
Remove Project Size Limits
Class B is capped at just under $150,000 per project. Class A has no cap. If you are turning down larger jobs because of your license limit, upgrading solves that.
See the full Virginia contractor license class comparison — A vs B vs C before deciding to upgrade.
Remove Annual Revenue Limits
Class B is capped at just under $1,000,000 per year. Class A has no annual limit. As your business grows, Class B becomes a ceiling.
Pursue Larger Contracts
Many commercial and government contracts prefer and some require Class A. Upgrading opens doors that Class B cannot.
Position for Long-Term Growth
If you expect to grow, upgrading now is more efficient than doing it under deadline pressure later.
| Class | Project Limit | Annual Limit |
|---|---|---|
| B | < ~$150,000 | < ~$1,000,000 |
| A | Unlimited | Unlimited |
How to Upgrade to Class A
Confirm You Meet Class A Requirements
Class A requires more experience and stricter financial qualifications than Class B or C. Review the requirements before applying.
Pass the Business/Law Exam (If Not Already)
Class A requires passing the Business/Law exam. If you already hold a Class B license, you may have already passed two of the three portions required. If upgrading from Class C, this is a new requirement.
Submit Your Upgrade Application to DPOR
This is not a new license application — it is an upgrade of your existing license. Submit through DPOR with updated financial documentation and experience information.
Get Approved — Remove the Limits
Once approved, your license is updated to Class A. Your license number stays the same. Your specialties stay the same. Your limits are gone.
Your License Remains Active While Upgrading
You do not lose your ability to work while your upgrade is pending. Your current Class B or C license remains valid throughout the process.
Common Mistakes When Upgrading
- ✗ Waiting until you have already exceeded your limits
- ✗ Submitting incomplete financial documentation
- ✗ Underestimating the Business/Law exam if upgrading from Class C
- ✗ Assuming the upgrade is automatic based on years in business
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Remove the Limits?
Upgrading to Class A opens bigger opportunities. Our exam prep class gets you ready for the Business/Law exam if needed.