Hi Kirk,
I'd guess the most important thing is 'who is seeking bids'.
The people, companies, banks, real estate developers,or govt agency, seeking the bids will all have different criteria for entry to their 'vendors' lists. Contact each of them and request their standards/needs.
Licensing, bonding and insurance, your history of completed jobs, customer references, etc will all have some bearing, as will your personal and company financial situation.
Good Luck!
Source: http://www.abusinessmentor.com