New Hampshire Contractor License Bond

A Contractor License Bond Cost in New Hampshire costs anywhere from $100 to $12,500. While these Contractor Bonds are required in amounts varying from $4,000 to $125,000, you only pay a small percentage of this amount (typically 1% - 10%).

The percentage that you pay to get bonded is known as a bond rate or bond premium. Your bond rate is determined by:

• Total Bond Amount: The total bond amount you need is known as the penal sum, and it heavily varies depending on what you need the bond for. For example, you need a $5,000 bond to work as a highway contractor in Manchester. However, to work on a public works project anywhere in the state, you need a $125,000 bond.
• Credit Score: Your credit score is the main factor that determines the percentage of your bond that you pay. The higher your score, the lower your bond rate. 

1. Find Your Bond Amount

New Hampshire Contractor Bonds typically range from $4,000 - $125,000. However, bonding requirements frequently change. Always check with the city or organization issuing your contracting license or permit for the most up-to-date requirements. 

• Public Works Bonds: The Department of Administrative Services Public Works Design and Construction
• Right-of-Way Performance Bonds: The Department of Transportation

2. Apply for Your Contractor License Bond

Fill out the online bond application. This form is available 24/7 and quick to fill out. One of our recent clients, Sheryl, was pleasantly surprised when the form took her less than 5 minutes to complete. She was fully bonded within a few hours. 

• Bond Amount 
• Obligee Name (Ex. City of Manchester)
• Contact information
• Contractor License Number (if available)

3. Get Your Bond Quote

You will receive a bond quote in your inbox after you submit your application. Usually, this email comes in less than five minutes, but larger bond amounts can take a bit more time. Be sure to check your Spam Folder. 

4. Purchase Your Bond

To purchase your bond, log in to our website, sign the bonding agreement, and pay your invoice. A copy of the bond will be emailed, while the original hard copy will be sent through mail.

Contractors taking on public works projects and those doing specific types of work need a New Hampshire Contractor License Bond. This type of bond is a requirement to get certain types of contractor licenses and permits in NH. 

You only need a Contractor License Bond if it is a requirement to work or get licensed. It is not an elective bond as it doesn’t benefit you or your company. It is simply a licensing requirement that ensures you are financially liable if you conduct business illegally or unethically. 

See How Do Surety Bonds Work? for more information.

New Hampshire only issues licenses to specialty contractors like electricians and plumbers through the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification (OPLC).

General contractors working in the state don’t need a contractor license. Instead, they need to pull permits in certain cities. To get these permits, apply through the local permit office.