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While the U.S. Virgin Islands are known for tourism, many people move there to enjoy the beautiful landscape and unique Danish-influenced architecture. General contractors are responsible for building, maintaining, and repairing all of that beautiful infrastructure, ensuring the safety and convenience of the general public.

Becoming a general contractor in the U.S. Virgin Islands can provide a rewarding career with significant benefits. Before you can be authorized to bid on contracts and complete work, you must be trained and qualified by applying for a general contractor license. 

If you’re unsure how to start that process, we will help you discover how to pivot into this sought-after career.

Requirements to Apply for a U.S. Virgin Islands General Contractor License

The list of requirements to be eligible for a U.S. Virgin Islands general contractor license can be broken up into three categories: experience, insurance, and examinations. To meet the experience requirements, you must submit:

• Three 2x2 photographs of yourself
• One letter attesting to your trustworthy character
• Two professional references from licensed contractors detailing your work in the construction field with proof of current licensure for both references

To meet insurance requirements, you must submit proof that you have valid automobile, workers’ compensation, and general liability policies. You must also take and pass two examinations: the NASCLA Accredited Commercial General Building Contractor Exam and the VI General Construction Exam. 

Taking the NASCLA and VI General Construction Exams

The National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA) oversees accredited examinations for contractors. NASCLA’s general contractor exam is a 330-minute open-book test broken down into these sections:

• General requirements
• Site construction
• Concrete
• Masonry
• Metals
• Wood
• Thermal and moisture protection
• Doors, windows, and glazing
• Finishes
• Mechanical and plumbing systems
• Electrical systems
• Procurement and contracting requirements

To pass the test, applicants must score 81 correct answers out of 115 total test questions. Note that the NASCLA exam has reciprocity with 18 U.S. states, including Georgia, Florida, Arizona, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Oregon. 

The VI General Construction Exam is a timed test that lasts for 60 minutes and covers general trade-related topics. You can take the test for $100 more than you would pay to take the NASCLA exam alone. 

Exam Prep Puts Success in Your Hands

Meeting the requirements for a general contractor license in the U.S. Virgin Islands may appear daunting, but knowing that you’re prepared for your exams can take the burden off your shoulders and provide you with a much-needed confidence boost. 

RocketCert provides a plethora of materials to suit your exam prep needs, including a comprehensive online course written by industry experts that allows you to learn and practice at your own pace. A full test simulation and access to all the books you can use during the test can give you peace of mind that you’ll be ready for the real thing.

Contact RocketCert today to see our available courses and bundles and find the one that will best help you prepare for success in your new career as a U.S. Virgin Islands licensed general contractor.