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In recent years, skilled trades have become an appealing option for young adults who want a fruitful career but don’t necessarily want to attend four or more years of school and take on massive student loan debt. Roofing is one field where professionals are always in high demand — everyone needs a working roof overhead.

As a roofing and sheet metal contractor in Alabama, you can install, repair, and replace residential and commercial roofs. You can also fabricate, install, repair, and replace sheet metal components, not only for roofing but also for ventilation, flashing, gutters and downspouts, and other exterior applications. 

Professionals in this field also conduct inspections, assess damage, make recommendations, and provide quotes for work.

However, you can’t just jump in with both feet. The state of Alabama requires you to obtain a roofing and sheet metal contractor license from the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors before you can legally perform this type of work. 

What do you need to do to get a license?

Education, Experience, and Legal Requirements

If you want to bid on contracts for residential and/or commercial jobs over $50,000, you must obtain a roofing and sheet metal contractor license. As far as education and experience go, you’ll be asked to provide documentation showing a minimum of three completed projects within the last three years.

Providing proof of applicable education or experience with your license application is essential to ensure the licensing board understands your capabilities and pre-approves you to sit for state exams. 

You’ll also have to meet several legal qualifications, including designating a qualifying party, registering with the Alabama Secretary of State, and providing proof of general liability insurance along with a current and official financial statement.

Trade and Other Exams

Roofing and sheet metal contractors are required to pass two exams in Alabama before obtaining a license. The Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractor exam consists of 60 questions covering topics like:

• Estimating and plan reading
• Surface preparation and planning
• Steep and low slope roofing, including BUR and waterproofing
• Roofing components
• Safety

You will have 150 minutes to complete this open-book test. You must also take the Business and Law exam, which is made up of 50 questions pertaining to:

• Licensing
• Estimating and bidding
• Liens
• Financial
• Payroll and taxes
• Personnel and labor
• Project management
• Contracts
• Business organization
• Risk management
• Safety recordkeeping and environmental

You will have 120 minutes to complete this exam, which is also open book. Both tests require that you answer a minimum of 70% of questions correctly to receive a passing score.

Passing State Exams on the First Try

A state-approved exam prep course offers the best way to prepare to pass trade and other exams on the first try. Look for a course designed by and for working professionals, with 24/7 access to online materials so you can work at your own speed.

Are you interested in taking your career to the next level by obtaining a roofing and sheet metal contractor license in Alabama? Contact RocketCert today to sign up for comprehensive exam prep.