Virginia Tile Contractor License Requirements (2026 Guide)

Last updated April 2026. Verified against Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) and 18 VAC 50-22.

If you're a tile installer planning to work in Virginia, you're entering one of the most structured contractor licensing markets in the country. Virginia has a dedicated tile-specific specialty classification — Tile, Marble, Ceramic, and Terrazzo (TMC) — administered through the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). Unlike most Eastern states that don't have tile-specific classifications, Virginia explicitly recognizes tile installation as its own trade specialty.

Virginia's licensing system is also notable for its three-class tier structure based on project value and annual revenue. Class C (smallest), Class B (mid-size), and Class A (unlimited) carry different financial requirements, experience minimums, and exam obligations. The state has the lowest threshold in the country at just $1,000 — meaning virtually all tile work requires licensing. And Virginia has no reciprocity with neighboring jurisdictions, including Washington DC and Maryland, despite the heavy Northern Virginia construction market.

This guide covers what Virginia tile contractors actually need to know — the TMC classification, the Class A/B/C tier structure, why Virginia is more rigorous than its Southern neighbors, the 8-hour pre-license education requirement, and how to navigate Northern Virginia's premium DC suburb market alongside Hampton Roads, Richmond, and the Shenandoah Valley. Information was verified against state regulations and DPOR sources as of April 2026, but always confirm current requirements directly with DPOR before applying.

The Quick Answer

Does Virginia require a tile contractor license? Yes. Virginia requires contractor licensing for any project valued at $1,000 or more — one of the lowest thresholds in the country. Tile installers can use either the dedicated Tile, Marble, Ceramic, and Terrazzo (TMC) specialty classification, or operate under broader classifications like Residential Building Contractor (RBC), Commercial Building Contractor (CBC), Home Improvement Contractor (HIC), or Commercial Improvement Contractor (CIC) — all of which include tile work in their scope.

The legal basis: Virginia Code Title 54.1, Chapter 11. Regulations under 18 VAC 50-22 (Definitions of License Classifications). DPOR administers the licensing.

Three-class tier structure based on project value AND annual revenue:

• Class C: Single contracts $1,000–$30,000, annual revenue under $250,000
• Class B: Single contracts under $150,000, annual revenue under $1,000,000
• Class A: No limits on contract value or annual revenue

Cost to get started: Approximately $1,500–$3,500 first year for Class C, depending on insurance and education costs. Class B and Class A scale higher.

Time to get licensed: 6–12 weeks total — including 8-hour pre-license course, exams, application processing, and DPOR approval.

Required exam: Yes. 8-hour pre-license course required for all classes. Business exam required for Class A and B. TMC specialty trade exam required regardless of class.

Experience required:

• Class C: 2 years
• Class B: 3 years
• Class A: 5 years

Renewal: Every 2 years. No continuing education required for general contractors (but required for trade specialties like electrical, plumbing, HVAC, gas fitting).

Reciprocity: None. Virginia does not have reciprocal agreements with any state, including Maryland and Washington DC.

This puts Virginia in the heavily-regulated tier — comparable to California or Arizona in rigor. The $1,000 threshold means virtually all tile work requires licensing, with no informal entry path for new tile contractors.

Understanding Virginia's Three-Class Structure

To navigate Virginia licensing, you need to understand how the class system works.

The dual-trigger rule

Virginia's class system uses both single-project value AND annual gross revenue to determine which class you need. The HIGHER class trigger governs.

Example 1:

• Single tile project: $25,000
• Annual revenue: $200,000
• Both fall within Class C limits → Class C is sufficient

Example 2:

• Single tile project: $25,000
• Annual revenue: $400,000
• Single project is Class C, but annual revenue triggers Class B → Class B required

Example 3:

• Single tile project: $50,000
• Annual revenue: $200,000
• Annual revenue is Class C, but single project triggers Class B → Class B required

This means tile contractors can't avoid higher-class licensing by managing project sizes if their total annual revenue grows. DPOR audits and complaint investigations examine both metrics.

Class C — Most accessible tier

Project limits:

• Single contracts $1,000–$30,000 (combined labor and materials)
• Annual gross revenue under $250,000

Requirements:

• 8-hour pre-license course
• Member of responsible management completes the course
• 2 years of trade experience
• TMC specialty trade exam (or other tile-related specialty)
• No business exam required for Class C
• No minimum net worth requirement
• $200,000 general liability insurance recommended

Best for: Solo tile contractors doing typical bathroom retiles, backsplash work, and small-medium tile jobs.

Application fee: $385

Class B — Mid-tier

Project limits:

• Single contracts under $150,000
• Annual gross revenue under $1,000,000

Requirements:

• 8-hour pre-license course
• Designated employee or member of responsible management completes the course
• 3 years of trade experience
• Business exam (PSI)
• TMC specialty trade exam
• $15,000 net worth minimum
• $200,000 general liability insurance

Best for: Tile contractors who do whole bathroom remodels, custom tile installations, larger residential projects.

Application fee: $385

Class A — Unlimited tier

Project limits:

• No limit on single contract value
• No limit on annual gross revenue

Requirements:

• 8-hour pre-license course
• Designated employee or member of responsible management completes the course
• 5 years of trade experience
• Business exam (PSI)
• TMC specialty trade exam
• $45,000 net worth minimum
• $500,000 general liability insurance recommended

Best for: Established tile contractors handling commercial work, large-scale installations, multi-trade projects.

Application fee: $385

Why this structure matters

The class system creates a clear ladder for tile contractors:

1. Start at Class C while building experience and revenue 2. Upgrade to Class B as you take larger projects 3. Move to Class A for commercial or unlimited residential work

Most solo tile contractors should target Class C initially. The lower experience requirement (2 years), no business exam, and no net worth requirement make it the most accessible entry point.

Important grandfathering note: Virginia recommends getting the highest class you qualify for the first time. Once licensed, you're generally grandfathered into existing rules. If you upgrade later, you may face new entry requirements that didn't exist when you first licensed.

The TMC Classification: Tile-Specific Scope

Virginia's TMC classification is one of the most explicit tile-specific licenses in the country. Per 18 VAC 50-22-20:

> "Tile, marble, ceramic, and terrazzo contracting (Abbr: TMC) means the service that provides for the preparation, fabrication, construction, and installation of artificial marble, burned clay tile, ceramic, terrazzo, encaustic, faience, quarry, semi-vitreous, cementitious board, and other tile, excluding hollow or structural partition tile."

What TMC covers

• Ceramic tile installation
• Porcelain tile installation
• Burned clay tile (traditional clay tile)
• Mosaic tile installation
• Glass tile installation
• Stone tile installation (artificial marble, terrazzo)
• Encaustic tile installation
• Faience tile installation
• Quarry tile installation
• Semi-vitreous tile installation
• Cementitious backer board installation
• Substrate preparation for tile
• Surface fabrication and construction related to tile

The "preparation" language is broad — it covers substrate prep, leveling compounds, waterproofing membranes, and other prep work needed for tile installation.

Alternative classifications that include tile

If you don't want a TMC-only license, several broader classifications also include tile work:

• Residential Building Contractor (RBC): Covers all residential building work including tile. Best for tile contractors who do whole bathroom remodels with multiple trades.
• Commercial Building Contractor (CBC): Covers all commercial building work including tile. Best for commercial tile contractors.
• Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) — Specialty: Covers residential improvement work valued under $25,000 per project. Includes tile.
• Commercial Improvement Contractor (CIC) — Specialty: Covers commercial improvement work. Includes tile.

For a TMC-only specialty contractor, you can ONLY do tile, marble, ceramic, and terrazzo work. For broader scopes, RBC or CBC offer more flexibility but require more rigorous qualifying.

What TMC doesn't cover

• No plumbing work (drain modifications, shower valves) — requires Plumbing (PLB) specialty
• No electrical work (heated floor cables) — requires Electrical (ELE) specialty
• No structural work — requires RBC or CBC
• Hollow or structural partition tile — explicitly excluded

Subcontract these scopes to appropriately licensed Virginia contractors.

What It Costs in Virginia

Virginia's costs are moderate-to-high among Eastern states.

Class C TMC tile contractor costs

For a solo tile contractor getting Class C TMC license:

• VA business entity formation (LLC): $100
• 8-hour pre-license course: $100–$150
• TMC trade exam fee (PSI): $85
• DPOR application fee (Class C): $385
• General liability insurance: $800–$1,200/year
• Workers' compensation (if employees): variable
• City/county business license: $50–$300

Total first-year cost: approximately $1,650–$2,400

Class B TMC tile contractor costs

Add to Class C costs:

• Business exam fee (PSI): $85
• Higher insurance recommended: +$300/year
• Financial documentation (if needed): $200

Total first-year cost: approximately $2,500–$3,500

Class A TMC tile contractor costs

Add to Class B costs:

• More substantial financial documentation
• Higher insurance: +$500/year
• More extensive experience documentation

Total first-year cost: approximately $3,500–$4,500

This puts Virginia between Utah ($1,500) and California ($3,000–$5,500) in regulatory cost.

How to Get Your TMC License: Step-by-Step

Here's the actual process to become a licensed Virginia tile contractor.

Step 1: Form Your Business Entity

Virginia requires contractor licenses to be issued to business entities, not individuals.

Options:

• Sole Proprietorship: Cheapest, no SCC filing for legal name. Trade Name registration if using DBA: $10–$25.
• LLC: $100 filing fee, $50 annual registration. Most common.
• Corporation: $25 minimum filing fee, varying annual registration.
• Partnership: $25–$100 filing fee.

File at: scc.virginia.gov

Practical recommendation: Form an LLC. Virginia's LLC fees are reasonable and provide liability protection.

Step 2: Complete the 8-Hour Pre-License Course

ALL classes (A, B, and C) require an 8-hour pre-license education course before applying for a license.

Course requirements:

• Must be DPOR-approved
• Online or in-person delivery available
• Cost: $100–$150 typical
• One-time requirement (good for life)
• For Class A or B: completed by member of responsible management OR designated employee
• For Class C: completed by member of responsible management

Topics covered:

• Regulation of contractors
• Board rules and regulations
• Building codes
• Transaction Recovery Fund
• Virginia Erosion and Sediment Control Regulations

Find approved providers at the DPOR website.

Step 3: Decide on Your Class and Specialty

For most tile contractors:

• Class C if your typical project is under $30K and annual revenue under $250K
• Class B if larger projects or higher revenue
• Class A if commercial work or unlimited scope needed

Specialty: TMC (or RBC for whole-bathroom work)

Step 4: Pass the Business Exam (Class A and B Only)

If applying for Class A or B, you need to pass the Virginia Business Exam through PSI.

Class A Business Exam topics:

• Business Organization
• Estimating & Bidding
• Contracts
• Project Management
• Risk
• Safety
• Labor Laws
• Financial Management
• Federal and State Taxes
• Lien Laws

Class B Business Exam topics:

• Estimating and Bidding
• Contract Management
• Project Management
• Risk Management
• Safety
• Labor Laws
• Financial Management
• Federal and State Taxes
• Lien Laws

Class C: NO business exam required.

Exam fee: $85 (PSI) Schedule at: psiexams.com or call 855-340-3910

Pass rate: Approximately 70–80% for first-time test takers with proper prep.

Step 5: Pass the TMC Specialty Trade Exam

Regardless of class, you need to pass the TMC specialty exam (or your chosen specialty trade exam).

TMC trade exam topics:

• Tile installation methods
• Materials and adhesives
• Surface preparation
• Waterproofing systems
• Grouting techniques
• Stone, marble, ceramic specifications
• Building codes related to tile
• Safety practices

Exam fee: $85 (PSI) Schedule at: psiexams.com

You must be pre-approved by DPOR before scheduling the trade exam. The pre-approval is part of the application process.

Step 6: Document Your Experience

Required experience varies by class:

• Class C: 2 years
• Class B: 3 years
• Class A: 5 years

Acceptable documentation:

• W-2 forms and tax returns from tile employers
• 1099s and tax returns for self-employment
• Notarized statements from licensed contractors who employed you
• Project records, photos, contracts
• Apprenticeship completion certificates

Step 7: Submit Your DPOR Application

Apply through DPOR's eLicense online portal at dpor.virginia.gov.

Application requirements:

• Business entity information
• Class designation (A, B, or C)
• Specialty designation (TMC)
• Qualified Individual information (the person who passed the trade exam)
• Designated Employee information (for Class A and B who passed business exam)
• Member of Responsible Management info (for pre-license course completion)
• Experience documentation
• Financial documentation (Class B and A only)

Application fee: $385

Step 8: Wait for DPOR Approval

Processing time: 4–8 weeks typically.

DPOR reviews applications and issues licenses. Once approved, you receive your contractor license number.

Step 9: Obtain Local Business Licenses

Your DPOR license covers state-level requirements. Most Virginia localities require local business licenses too. Specific cities are covered below.

Step 10: Track Compliance Dates

Virginia tile contractors have these dates to track:

• DPOR license expiration (every 2 years)
• General liability insurance renewal (annually)
• Workers' compensation renewal (annually if applicable)
• Business entity registration with SCC (annually)
• Local business licenses (annually)

Insurance and Bond Requirements

Virginia DPOR doesn't have a state-mandated bond for tile contractors specifically (unlike California's $25K or Oregon's $20K bonds). However, insurance and financial responsibility requirements apply.

General Liability Insurance

Recommended minimums for tile contractors:

• Class C: $200,000 per occurrence
• Class B: $200,000–$500,000 per occurrence
• Class A: $500,000–$1,000,000 per occurrence

Most working tile contractors carry $1,000,000 per occurrence regardless of class. The cost differential is minimal and provides real protection.

Cost: $700–$1,400/year for solo tile contractor.

Workers' Compensation

Virginia requires workers' compensation for businesses with 3 or more employees.

• For solo tile contractors: Not required.
• For tile contractors with 1–2 employees: Not required by VA law. Many contractors voluntarily carry coverage.
• For tile contractors with 3+ employees: Required through Virginia-authorized providers.

Net Worth Requirements

• Class C: No net worth requirement
• Class B: $15,000 minimum
• Class A: $45,000 minimum

Net worth is calculated as total assets minus total liabilities. Documentation may be required at application.

Contractor Recovery Fund

Virginia has a Contractor Transaction Recovery Fund that protects consumers from financial losses due to contractor misconduct. Licensees pay an assessment fee that contributes to the fund.

• Initial assessment: Included in license application fees.
• Ongoing assessments: May be required if fund balance falls below threshold.

The Renewal Process

Virginia DPOR licenses are valid for 2 years.

Renewal cycle

License renewal must be received by DPOR before the expiration date (not just postmarked). Renewals can be submitted up to 60 days before expiration.

Renewal fee: Same as initial application ($385 for most classes).

Continuing education: NOT required for general contractor licenses. Trade specialties (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, gas fitting) DO require continuing education.

For tile contractors: No CE required for TMC, RBC, or CBC classifications.

30-Day Grace Period

Virginia provides a 30-day grace period after expiration where you can still renew without paying reinstatement fees. However, your license is NOT VALID during those 30 days — you cannot legally perform contracting work.

After 30 days:

• Reinstatement fee required in addition to renewal fee
• Reinstatement available for up to 24 months
• After 24 months: Must apply as new applicant and meet all current entry requirements

Don't let your license lapse. Set calendar reminders 60–90 days before expiration.

Local Requirements: Virginia Localities

Your DPOR license covers state-level licensing. Virtually every Virginia locality requires additional local business licenses.

Northern Virginia (DC suburbs)

The DC metro suburbs in Virginia — Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Loudoun, Prince William — have rigorous local requirements:

Fairfax County:

• BPOL (Business, Professional and Occupational License) tax required
• Annual fee based on gross receipts
• Apply through Fairfax County Department of Tax Administration

Arlington County:

• Business License Tax
• Annual fee based on gross receipts

Alexandria:

• Business License
• Annual fee scales with revenue

Prince William County:

• BPOL tax
• Annual fee varies

Loudoun County:

• Business license required
• Higher fees than Western Virginia

Richmond Metro

City of Richmond:

• Business License required
• Annual fee based on gross receipts

Chesterfield County, Henrico County:

• Local business license requirements
• Annual fees vary

Hampton Roads

Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News:

• Each has separate business license requirements
• Annual fees typically $50–$300

Other Virginia Cities

Most cities of any size in Virginia require business licenses. Annual fees typically scale with revenue.

Practical advice: Before starting work in any new Virginia locality, contact the local Commissioner of the Revenue. Most localities can register you online or by phone in minutes.

Permits: When Tile Work Requires Them in Virginia

Virginia permitting follows similar logic to other states.

Permits typically required:

• Tile work as part of larger remodel involving structural changes
• Plumbing modifications (drain relocation) — but plumber pulls these
• Electrical work for heated floor systems — but electrician pulls these
• Tile work on commercial properties (almost always permitted)
• Tile work in historic districts (Alexandria Old Town, Richmond historic neighborhoods, Williamsburg)

Permits typically NOT required:

• Standalone tile floor installation in existing residential
• Backsplash installation
• Standalone shower retiling without plumbing changes
• Tile repair work

Virginia-specific considerations:

• Williamsburg has historic preservation requirements
• Alexandria Old Town has Architectural Review Board requirements
• Northern Virginia HOAs are common and often require their own approvals
• Coastal areas (Virginia Beach) have hurricane-related material considerations
• Mountain areas (Shenandoah Valley) have freeze-thaw considerations

Always check with the local building department before starting work.

State-Licensed Trades You Can't Self-Perform

Several specialty trades require state licensing regardless of your TMC tile license.

Plumbing (PLB)

For drain modifications, valve installations, or any plumbing scope, you need a Virginia plumbing specialty license.

For tile contractors: Subcontract any plumbing work to a Virginia-licensed plumber.

Electrical (ELE)

For heated floor cable connections or any electrical scope, you need a Virginia electrical specialty license.

For tile contractors: Subcontract any electrical work to a Virginia-licensed electrician.

HVAC (HVA)

For ductwork modifications affecting bathroom ventilation, you need a Virginia HVAC specialty license.

Gas Fitting (GFC)

For gas piping work (gas water heaters, gas fireplaces), you need a Virginia gas fitting specialty license.

Reciprocity (Or Lack Thereof)

Virginia has NO reciprocity agreements with any state. This is unusual — most states have at least limited reciprocity.

Important implications:

• Your Maryland license doesn't transfer to Virginia
• Your DC license doesn't transfer to Virginia
• Your North Carolina license doesn't transfer to Virginia
• Your California C-54 doesn't transfer to Virginia

For DC area contractors: Even though DC, Maryland, and Virginia border each other, there's no reciprocity. To work in all three jurisdictions, you need separate licenses in each.

45-Day Temporary License

Out-of-state contractors who already hold a valid contractor license from another state may apply for a 45-day temporary Virginia contractor license:

• Must submit simultaneously with permanent license application
• Letter of Good Standing required from issuing state board
• Temporary license cannot be renewed, reinstated, or reapplied for
• Useful for emergency or short-term work

NASCLA Reciprocity (Limited)

Virginia is on the NASCLA (National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies) accepted exam list, but specifics vary. The NASCLA Accredited Examination doesn't directly confer a Virginia license but may simplify the application process.

Industry Certifications (Valuable Even with State License)

Beyond Virginia's TMC license, voluntary tile certifications can help differentiate you in premium markets.

Certified Tile Installer (CTI) - CTEF

• Most recognized voluntary credential nationally
• Even more valuable in Virginia where TMC license requires only 2–5 years experience
• Requires 2+ years of experience as lead installer
• Multiple-choice exam plus hands-on practical test
• Cost: $400–$600

In Virginia's premium markets (Great Falls, McLean, Vienna, Old Town Alexandria, Mount Vernon area, downtown Richmond, Williamsburg), CTI certification distinguishes you from contractors with only state TMC licensing.

NTCA Five Star Contractor

National Tile Contractors Association tier program. Useful for high-end residential and commercial work.

Manufacturer certifications

Particularly valuable in Virginia's varied climate (humid summers, freeze-thaw winters, coastal humidity):

• Schluter Systems: Especially valuable for waterproofing
• Laticrete: Wide product range
• Mapei: Comprehensive tile systems
• Ardex: Substrate prep specialist (Virginia's clay soils)

Historic district expertise

For tile contractors working Williamsburg, Alexandria Old Town, Charlottesville historic district:

• Period-appropriate installation methods
• Restoration tile work
• Architectural Review Board familiarity

What Happens If You Work Without a License

Virginia takes contractor licensing seriously, especially given the low $1,000 threshold.

Legal consequences:

• Class 1 misdemeanor under Virginia Code § 54.1-1115
• Fines up to $500 per day for each day of violation
• Plus authorized penalties for Class 1 misdemeanor (up to $2,500 fine, up to 12 months jail time)
• DPOR cease and desist orders

Civil consequences:

• Cannot enforce contracts
• Cannot file mechanic's liens
• Cannot sue to collect payment for work performed
• Customers can sue YOU for full reimbursement
• Insurance claims may be denied

Reputation consequences:

• DPOR maintains public lookup of disciplinary actions
• Public records of violations
• Future licensing harder to obtain

The bottom line: With $1,000 thresholds, virtually any tile work requires licensing. The cost-benefit of operating without proper licensing is genuinely poor.

Common Questions About Virginia Tile Contractor Licensing

Why does Virginia have a $1,000 threshold when most states have higher?

Virginia historically prioritized consumer protection in the construction industry. The low threshold reflects this — almost every contracting transaction creates DPOR oversight. The threshold has remained at $1,000 for many years without inflation adjustment.

This creates a high regulatory floor compared to North Carolina ($40K) or Tennessee ($25K), but also creates more rigorous quality controls in the Virginia market.

Should I get TMC, RBC, or CBC?

For most solo tile contractors:

• TMC: Tile-specific specialty. Lowest experience requirement, most accessible. Best for tile-only work.
• RBC: Residential Building Contractor. Covers all residential work including tile. Better for whole-bathroom remodels.
• CBC: Commercial Building Contractor. Covers all commercial work including tile. Best for commercial tile contractors.

Most working tile contractors should pursue TMC initially. It's the most direct path to legal tile work.

Is the TMC trade exam difficult?

The TMC trade exam covers tile installation methods, materials, building codes, and safety. With proper exam prep, pass rates are typically 70–80% for first-time test takers.

Recommended preparation:

• TCNA Handbook for Ceramic, Glass and Stone Tile Installation
• NTCA Reference Manual
• Manufacturer technical data sheets
• DPOR exam preparation materials

Can I use my DC or Maryland license in Virginia?

No. Virginia has no reciprocity with DC, Maryland, or any other state. To work in the DC metro across all three jurisdictions, you need:

• Virginia contractor license (DPOR)
• Maryland Home Improvement Commission license
• DC contractor license (DCRA Home Improvement Contractor)

This is unusual — most state border situations have at least limited reciprocity.

How does Virginia compare to neighboring states?

| State | Tile-Specific License | State Threshold | Trade Exam | |---|---|---|---| | Virginia | Yes (TMC) | $1,000 | Yes | | Maryland | Yes (Home Improvement) | $1,000–$25,000 (varies) | Yes | | Washington DC | Yes | $250 (lowest in country) | Yes | | North Carolina | None | $40,000 | None for tile | | Tennessee | None | $25K state, $3K county | None | | West Virginia | Yes (Specialty) | $2,500 | Yes |

Virginia's TMC classification is more rigorous than NC or TN but in line with MD and DC.

What about working in DC suburbs without MD/DC licenses?

Many Virginia tile contractors work exclusively in Virginia DC suburbs (Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Loudoun) without MD or DC licenses. This is fine if you stay on the Virginia side of the river.

Crossing into DC or MD requires their respective licenses. Even short-term work needs proper licensing.

Can I call myself a "Licensed Tile Contractor" in Virginia?

Yes — once licensed, you can legitimately use this terminology. Display your DPOR license number on:

• Advertising
• Contracts
• Vehicles (if applicable)
• Business cards
• Website

Example: "Class C TMC Licensed Tile Contractor — VA DPOR #0703012345"

What if my net worth fluctuates above/below Class B/A thresholds?

DPOR primarily checks net worth at application time. Once licensed, you maintain the class regardless of net worth fluctuations.

However, if you upgrade classes (Class C to Class B, for example), you must demonstrate the higher net worth at upgrade.

What if my qualifying party (Qualified Individual) leaves my business?

You must designate a replacement Qualified Individual within 30 days or your license is suspended. The replacement must:

• Be a member of responsible management or designated employee
• Have completed the trade exam
• Meet experience requirements

For Class A and B, the replacement must also have completed the business exam.

Does my license transfer if I sell my business?

DPOR licenses are issued to specific business entities. New owners need their own:

• Qualified Individual
• Designated Employee (for Class A and B)
• Member of Responsible Management (for pre-license course)
• Experience documentation
• Financial documentation

Licenses don't transfer with business sales.

What about the 24-month reinstatement rule?

If your license expires:

• 0–30 days: Renew without reinstatement fee, but cannot work
• 31 days to 24 months: Renew with reinstatement fee, cannot work until renewed
• After 24 months: Must apply as new applicant, must meet ALL current entry requirements

This is strict — many states allow longer lapse periods. Virginia's 24-month limit means you can't sit on a lapsed license for years.

Do I need workers' comp for myself if I'm solo?

No. Virginia requires workers' compensation for businesses with 3 or more employees. Solo tile contractors don't need workers' comp.

What's the relationship between TMC and HIC?

TMC is a tile-specific specialty under DPOR. HIC (Home Improvement Contractor) is a broader specialty covering residential improvement work valued under $25,000 per project (including tile).

TMC advantages:

• Tile-specific identity
• Lower experience requirement than HIC for some projects
• Direct trade exam

HIC advantages:

• Broader scope (covers other improvement work)
• Often more useful for whole-bathroom remodels
• Can include tile alongside other trades

You can hold multiple specialties on one license. Many tile contractors hold both TMC and HIC.

How do I work in Northern Virginia DC suburbs?

You need:

• Virginia DPOR contractor license (TMC or other)
• Local business licenses in each county/city you work
• Workers' comp (if employees)
• General liability insurance

Northern Virginia counties have strict permit requirements. Plan for 1–2 week permit reviews on bathroom remodels in many jurisdictions.

Tracking Your Compliance: Why It Matters

Virginia tile contractors have multiple compliance dates that must be tracked:

• DPOR contractor license expiration (every 2 years)
• Business entity registration with SCC (annually for LLCs)
• General liability insurance renewal (annually)
• Workers' compensation renewal (annually if 3+ employees)
• Local business licenses (annually, multiple jurisdictions if working multi-county)
• Sales tax filings (varies)

Northern Virginia tile contractors often have 5+ local business licenses to track simultaneously.

Practical advice: Set calendar reminders 90, 60, and 30 days before each expiration date. The 30-day grace period for DPOR is short compared to other states — don't rely on it.

This is one of the things TileForeman handles automatically for tile contractors who use it. Compliance tracking with built-in reminders works for any combination of state licensing, local business licenses, and certifications. Whether you use TileForeman or another tracking method, just don't let these dates surprise you.

Resources for Virginia Tile Contractors

State resources:

• Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR): dpor.virginia.gov
• DPOR Board for Contractors: dpor.virginia.gov/Boards/Contractors
• DPOR Phone: (804) 367-8511
• DPOR Email: contractor@dpor.virginia.gov
• DPOR Address: 9960 Mayland Drive, Henrico, VA 23233
• Virginia Code Title 54.1, Chapter 11 (the licensing statutes)
• 18 VAC 50-22 (Definitions of License Classifications)

Business and tax registration:

• Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC): scc.virginia.gov
• Virginia Department of Taxation: tax.virginia.gov

Industry organizations:

• Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF): ceramictilefoundation.org
• National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA): tile-assn.com
• Tile Council of North America (TCNA): tcnatile.com
• Home Builders Association of Virginia: hbav.com

Workers' compensation:

• Virginia Workers' Compensation Commission: workcomp.virginia.gov

Exam testing:

• PSI Exams: psiexams.com
• Phone: 855-340-3910

Pre-license education providers (DPOR-approved):

• RocketCert
• Contractor Exam Preparation
• Capitol Education Center
• Virginia HBAV
• Other DPOR-approved providers

Local business license offices (sample):

• Fairfax County Department of Tax Administration
• Arlington County Commissioner of the Revenue
• City of Alexandria
• Prince William County
• Loudoun County
• City of Richmond
• Henrico County
• Chesterfield County
• City of Virginia Beach

Tracking License Compliance with TileForeman

If you're a licensed Virginia TMC tile contractor, you have multiple compliance dates: DPOR license renewal (every 2 years), insurance renewals, workers' comp (if applicable), business entity registration, sales tax filings, and multiple local business licenses (especially in Northern Virginia where you may work multiple counties).

TileForeman automatically tracks all license, insurance, and compliance expirations for tile contractors, with reminders sent 90, 60, and 30 days before each expiration. It's part of the broader business management software built specifically for tile installers.

Try it free at tileforeman.com.

Keep This Information Current

Virginia's contractor licensing rules are stable but updated periodically. Pre-license education requirements have evolved. Class structure thresholds have remained consistent.

This guide was last verified in April 2026 against state regulations and DPOR sources. Before taking any action based on this information:

• Verify current state requirements at dpor.virginia.gov
• Confirm class thresholds and exam requirements with DPOR directly at (804) 367-8511
• Check city/county-specific requirements with each Commissioner of the Revenue
• Consult a Virginia construction attorney for complex situations
• Talk to a Virginia tax professional about sales tax obligations

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice.

This guide is part of TileForeman's state-by-state tile contractor licensing series. View licensing requirements for other states at tileforeman.com/blog.