*All license renewal will be done using the new contractor portal online beginning this year, 2021. The first step in license renewal involves receiving log in information to the contractor portal. This should have already been sent to you via email.  If you have not received it, and you are due to renew this year, please fill out the request login form and we will resend it to you by the next business day. If you have any questions please contact the Risk Reduction office by email or call 785-587-4506 during regular business hours. 

License Application Information

Licenses and applications for contractors, tradesmen and apprentices are available through Risk Reduction. To apply online or download an application, see all available licenses and permits.

General Contractor License Requirements

General contractor license requirements are established by city ordinance.

• The City of Manhattan accepts the following licenses: Commercial (A), Combination (B), Residential (C).
• The applicant must provide proof of a minimum score of 75% on the Prometric or International Code Council.
• The applicant must also provide proof of a commercial general liability insurance policy with minimum limits of $500,000 for each occurrence and $500,000 general aggregate.
• Apply for a general contractor's license

Trade License/Apprentice Requirements

• Trade license applicants must provide proof of a minimum exam score of 75%.
• Test applicants for Journeyman must have 2 years practical experience.
• Test applicants for Master must have 4 years practical experience. Master Electricians must first be a Journeyman Electrician for 2 of the 4 years.
• ​Apply for a trade contractor license
• Apply for an individual trade license 
• Apply for an apprentice registration

Testing Information

As of August 31, 2021, Prometric will no longer be offering testing for individual or contractor construction licensing. As a result, there are currently no tests available for new drainlayers and irrigation sprinkler installers.  

For all other tests, please go to one of the sites (below) to see what types of exams are offered and to sign up.  Sponsorship is not required.  

For information about testing through the International Code Council (ICC), visit the ICC website
or call 877-234-6082. 

For information about testing through IAPMO, visit IAPMO Certification and Testing

For information about testing through PSI, visit PSI online and search for the nearest testing site.