How Do I Become a General Contractor in Virginia?

General contractors are responsible for all facets of a construction project.

General contractors provide a full range of services in the construction industry, from simple dry wall installation to managing the construction of multi-million dollar condo complexes. The road to becoming a general contractor in Virginia depends on one's aspirations, whether that is becoming skilled in a specific aspect of construction or wanting to become a manager of large projects. The Board for Contractors in Virginia is the regulatory body for all contractors and issues licenses for contractors in the state. As of August 2010, becoming a general contractor garners a salary of between $56,078 to $112,263, according to payscale.com.

Instructions

1. Research general contractor careers in Virgina. This will help determine which route - through work experience or a higher education degree - you will need to take. For those working at a smaller company who are interested in a specific field, such as drywall or plumbing, on-the-job training will suffice; however, it takes longer to work your way up to the position of general contractor. For those interested in large scale projects and working in a corporate capacity, higher education is required.

2. Earn a degree from an accredited higher education institution. While it is possible to work one's way up to becoming a general contractor, today's job market favors those with a four-year degree, especially companies specializing in large and complex construction projects. Degrees in building science, planning and engineering will provide the necessary educational background for landing a job in the construction industry.

3. Gain experience as an entry-level worker in the construction industry. For those that forgo a higher education degree, this means gaining employment as an apprentice or helper in a specific area of construction, such as tile. From here, one can learn the trade, gain valuable work experience, and progress to the role of general contractor. Even those with degrees will have to gain work experience before being placed in a general contractor's role.

4. Find employment in the construction field. Virgina does not issue general contractor licenses to individuals, but rather to businesses, so you will have to find work with a company. Once employed, your employer can begin the application process so that you can become a contractor.

5. Complete the pre-license, Board for Contractors-approved business class for contractors. This is an eight hour class concentrating on fundamental business practices.

6. Pass the Virgina state contractors exam. There are two different exams for general contractors in Virginia, Class A and B. The Class B exam is a two part test, with a section specific to Virginia contracting laws and regulations and a general knowledge portion which tests business acumen. The Class A exam is three parts, which in addition to the Virginia and general portions of the Class B exam, includes a third section testing more complex business concepts related to contracting.

   Note that Virginia has a Class C category for businesses that contract for more than $1,000 and less than $10,000; however, no examination is required for Class C contractors.

7. Become certified in a specialized field. As with all industries, specialization can increase salary and employment possibilities. All specializations, such as asbestos removal or fire sprinkler, require a tradesman license or certification from an approved governing body, such as The Board for Asbestos, Lead and Home Inspectors.

Tips & Warnings

• As construction becomes more technical, an educational background in mathematics is advantageous.

References

• Virginia Board of Contractors
• Virginia Contractor Licensing
• Payscale - General Building Contractor Salary

Resources

• Construction Managers Outlook