In the state of Alaska the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development governs regulations for construction contractors in Alaska. This body makes all final contractor license decisions. It also uses its authority to carry out disciplinary actions against people who break licensing laws.

Unlike many of the other states Alaska has a harsh climate, from –50 degree Fahrenheit weather in the mountains and north to cold and humid climate at the coast. Therefore the building standards can differ from those in the rest of the U.S.

Non Resident Contractor’s License

Due the shortage of manpower in specific fields many projects in Alaska require the importation of foreign and American contractors. However, because of the extreme conditions and permafrost in Alaska certain qualifications have to be met through the Department of Community and Economic Development and the Division of Occupational Licensing.

Residential General Contractor License

To get a residential general contractor license in Alaska requires more than the usually requirements in the lower 48 states. First the applicant must successfully complete the Alaska Craftsman Home Program (ACHP) or have an equivalent rating. This includes a post-secondary course in Arctic engineering or its equivalent. ACHP is a private, nonprofit organization that holds trains contractors through workshops.

Electrical Administrator's License

You must have a contractor license to work in the electrical trade in Alaska. Called an electrical administrator there are licenses in the following categories:

• Unlimited Commercial Wiring
• Residential Wiring
• Controls and Control Wiring
• Inside Communications
• Outside Communications
• Unlimited Line Work Outside

Mechanical Administrator's License

A mechanical administrator in Alaska requires a license in the following categories:

• Heating, Cooling and Process Piping
• Mechanical Systems Temperature Control
• Residential HVAC
• Residential Plumbing and Hydronic Heating
• Unlimited Commercial and Industrial Plumbing
• Unlimited HVAC/ Sheet Metal
• Unlimited Refrigeration

Asbestos Abatement

To work on buildings with asbestos content, and to remove this product, a contractor must be licensed in asbestos abatement.

Consumers are advised to check for additional local municipal contractor license requirements as contractor laws can differ from county to county. It is also advisable to double check with the state’s requirements before hiring a contractor.