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The West includes 13 jurisdictions and some of the most comprehensive licensing regimes in the country. California, Arizona, Nevada, and Hawaii regulate virtually all construction at the state level with low dollar thresholds. Other Western states like Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming regulate only specialty trades. Several states in this region — notably California, Arizona, Utah, and Nevada — are NASCLA reciprocity participants.

Alaska

Comprehensive state-level regulation of commercial, residential, and public works construction.

Arizona

All construction exceeding $1,000 or requiring a building permit must be licensed; dual residential/commercial structure.

California

CSLB licenses all construction at $1,000+ threshold; one of the most detailed classification systems nationally.

Colorado

State regulates plumbing and electrical only; general construction regulated locally.

Hawaii

All commercial, residential, and public works construction regulated at the state level.

Idaho

State-level regulation for home construction, commercial work, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.

Montana

State licensing limited to plumbing and electrical trades.

Nevada

Full state licensure for all commercial and residential contracting.

New Mexico

Comprehensive state-level regulation of commercial, residential, and public works construction.

Oregon

State regulates virtually all residential and commercial construction.

Utah

All construction of $3,000 or more regulated at state level; NASCLA reciprocity participant.

Washington

Registration-based system covering all construction work including asbestos abatement.

Wyoming

State regulation limited to electrical work only.