Washington State’s solar contracting market continues to expand, driven by its clean energy initiatives and growing demand for renewable energy solutions. Contractors across the state provide residential and commercial photovoltaic (PV) installations, battery storage systems, and EV charging infrastructure to help customers reduce energy costs and improve sustainability. Any entity that sells, designs, or installs solar systems valued at over $1,000 must be a licensed electrical contractor.

The following overview provides an at-a-glance look at the specific requirements and steps to obtain your Washington license and navigate the process with confidence.  

Did You Know?

The total solar investment in Washington State is $2.3 billion, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).

Washington Solar Contractor Requirements

Businesses that contract to design, sell, or install solar energy systems typically must register as contractors with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) before performing work in the state. Depending on the scope of work, solar contractors may also need an electrical contractor license and certified electricians to perform electrical installations and interconnections.

Unlike some states, Washington does not offer a standalone solar contractor license. Instead, solar businesses must complete the contractor registration process and comply with applicable electrical licensing requirements.

Eligibility Criteria for Working on Solar Projects

To operate as a solar contractor in Washington, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Establish a business entity (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation, or partnership)
  • Register your business and obtain a Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number
  • Meet bonding and insurance requirements
  • Comply with state and local business regulations
  • Solar projects involving electrical installation or utility interconnection must be performed by appropriately licensed electrical contractors and certified electricians, as required by Washington law.

Required Documentation and Qualifications

Applicants typically need:

  • Social Security Number (SSN) or Employer Identification Number (EIN)
  • UBI number issued by the Washington Department of Revenue
  • Completed contractor registration application
  • Continuous Contractor Surety Bond
  • Certificate of General Liability Insurance
  • Workers' Compensation coverage (if hiring employees)
  • Business and mailing address
  • Prior contractor registration history (if applicable)

The Washington Solar Contractor Registration Process

The registration process generally includes:

  • Establish your business structure as a sole proprietor, LLC, corporation, or partnership
  • Register your business and obtain a UBI number
  • Purchase a Contractor Surety Bond:
    • $30,000 for specialty contractors
    • $60,000 for general contractors
  • Obtain General Liability insurance:
    • Minimum $200,000 public liability and $50,000 property damage coverage, $250,000 combined single-limit coverage
  • Obtain Workers' Compensation coverage if hiring employees
  • Complete and submit the contractor registration application and fee to Washington L&I
    • Include original notarized signatures
    • Submit the required fee
  • Mail or deliver the application to L&I:
    Department of Labor & Industries
    Contractor Registration
    P.O. BOX 44450
    Olympia, WA 98504-4450
  • Maintain all licensing, bond, and insurance requirements throughout the registration period

Exam Preparation and Study Resources

Washington does not require a solar-specific contractor exam. However, contractors performing electrical work must meet Washington electrical licensing requirements and ensure electrical work is performed by appropriately licensed electrical contractors and certified electricians.

Solar contractors should familiarize themselves with:

  • Washington contractor registration requirements
  • Electrical licensing requirements
  • National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements applicable to solar installations
  • OSHA and WISHA jobsite safety standards
  • Contract requirements and lien laws
  • Utility interconnection requirements

Resources include:

  • Washington L&I contractor registration guides
  • Washington electrical licensing resources
  • NABCEP certification resources and training programs
  • Industry associations and solar trade organizations

Tips for Successfully Registering as a Solar Contractor in Washington

  • Register your business before beginning the contractor registration process
  • Verify whether your scope of work requires an electrical contractor license
  • Maintain current bond and insurance coverage
  • Ensure application information is complete and accurate
  • Understand local permitting and utility interconnection requirements before bidding on projects
  • Consider obtaining NABCEP certification to demonstrate solar expertise

Bonds and Insurance Requirements for Washington Solar Contractors

  • Surety Bond: $15,000 for specialty contractors.
  • General Liability insurance: A minimum of $200,000 in public liability and $50,000 property damage, or $250,000 combined single limit in coverage is required.
  • Workers’ Compensation insurance through the state if you plan to hire employees.

How to Obtain Necessary Bonds and Insurance

CCIS can provide you with the Surety Bond and General Liability insurance to meet your solar contractor requirements. Washington is one of four monopolistic states, so Workers’ Compensation must be purchased directly from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries rather than private insurers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Contractors in Washington State

Q. How quickly can I secure the necessary bonds through CCIS Bonds to work on solar projects in Washington state.

A. CCIS can typically provide you with a quote for the necessary bond the same day.

Q. Are there insurance products available for solar contractors through CCIS?

A. Yes, you can obtain General Liability, Excess Liability, and Contractors Tools & Equipment insurance through CCIS.

Note: This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal, licensing, or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and bond amounts may change and can vary by applicant. Always verify requirements directly with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries and applicable local jurisdictions. Consult with your legal professional concerning your compliance as to your business operations.