Yes. Effective January 1, 2006, all home improvement contractors must be registered with the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs. They will have to produce a registration card from the State before any permits can be issued. This is, of course, a benefit to the homeowners. For more information call Consumer Affairs at 888-656-6225. Electrical and Plumbing contractors must be licensed by the State of NJ. They do not have to be registered if they have a license from the appropriate licensing board.