Excavation Contractor License in Utah

Everything you need to know about getting your excavation contractor license in Utah. A state license is required.

Utah Note: Licensed through DOPL.

How to Get Licensed: Step by Step

Meet Basic Requirements

Be at least 18 years old with a valid ID. Pass a background check.

Complete Education

High school diploma or GED; heavy equipment operation training preferred

Gain 3 Years of Experience

Minimum 3 years of excavation and earthmoving experience.

Pass the Excavation Contractor Exam

Obtain Insurance & Bonding

Secure General Liability, Workers Compensation insurance and a $14,250 surety bond.

Submit Application

Apply to the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. Pay the application and license fees.

Requirements

Age Requirement	18+
Experience	3 years — Minimum 3 years of excavation and earthmoving experience.
Education	High school diploma or GED; heavy equipment operation training preferred
Background Check	Required

Fee Breakdown

Application Fee$95

License Fee$190

Exam Fee$95

Total Initial Cost$380

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)$135

Exam Information

Exam Name: Excavation Contractor Exam
Provider: PSI Services
Exam Fee: $95

Insurance & Bonding

Insurance Requirements

Required Types:

General Liability
Workers Compensation

Minimum Coverage:

$1,000,000 per occurrence / $2,000,000 aggregate

Surety Bond

A surety bond of $14,250 is required.

License Reciprocity

Utah has reciprocity agreements with the following states. This typically means the trade exam may be waived, but you'll still need to meet other state requirements.

Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Florida Georgia Louisiana Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Nevada New Mexico North Carolina Oregon Rhode Island South Carolina Tennessee Virginia West Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to work as a excavation contractor in Utah?

Yes, Utah requires a state license for excavation contractors. The license is issued by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.

How much does a excavation contractor license cost in Utah?

The total initial cost is approximately $380, which includes the application fee ($95), license fee ($190), and exam fee ($95). Renewal costs $135 every 2 years.

How long does it take to get a excavation contractor license in Utah?

You'll need 3 years of experience before you can apply. Once you meet all requirements, the application process typically takes 4-8 weeks.

Is there a excavation contractor exam in Utah?

Yes, you must pass the Excavation Contractor Exam, administered by PSI Services. The exam fee is $95.

Does Utah have reciprocity with other states for excavation contractor licenses?

Yes, Utah has reciprocity agreements with 21 other states. This may waive the trade exam, but you'll still need to meet other requirements.

Last verified: March 4, 2026

Information sourced from Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. Always verify directly with the licensing authority for the most current requirements.

See something inaccurate?

Licensing requirements change frequently. If you notice outdated or incorrect information about Utah Excavation Contractor License, please let us know.

Other Trades in Utah

General Contractor Electrician Plumber HVAC Technician Roofing Contractor Painting Contractor

Excavation Contractor in Other States

Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado