What is a contractors license?
A contractor’s license is state certified and indicates that a contractor is qualified to perform construction work. Contractors may have a residential license, a commercial license or a dual residential and commercial license. License types, requirements, and costs vary from state to state. See below for a complete guide, by state, of these details.How do I get a general contractors license?
Every state has its own specific requirements for a general contractor license, which means the process will vary from state to state. Some states require pre-licensing and/or proof of experience. Some states do not have state general contractor license requirements, but may have local requirements. Use the guide below to learn more about each state’s specific contractor license requirements.How much is a contractors license?
The cost of a contractors license will vary from state to state. Most states have fees to cover the cost of processing your application. Some states may have additional costs for bonds or insurance that must be acquired prior to submitting your application.Does my license qualify for Reciprocity
For license specific information please call our office at 800-952-0910.Get help completing your license application.
Please see detailed information here: Application Licensing Options.Alabama
Requirements
The first step to take for your contractor license in Alabama is to complete the application, available online or by calling the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors at (334) 272-5030. You must then pass the Business and Law exam. Your application will depend on having experience in the field and if you apply for a speciality license you will need to list experience in that field as well.Online Courses
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Requirements
The state of Alaska requires general contractors to hold a state license. While there is no exam requirement unless you are performing residential work, you will need to hold general liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance. Per the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing, there are 3 different classifications of license. To apply for a license, please contact the Alaska Division of Occupational Licensing at 1-907-465-3035Online Courses
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Requirements
Arizona requires a contractors license for any contract that exceeds $1,000 (including labor and materials) or if the work requires a building permit. Per the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, there are also multiple classifications of licenses available. Applicants must also pass two examinations: Statutes & Rules (Business & Law) and the trade. You must also show proof of four years experience and proof of a bond. Applications for commercial licensure can be obtained by calling 1-602-542-1525. Examinations can be scheduled through PSI by calling 1-800-733-9267.Online Courses
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Requirements
General contractors in the state of Arkansas must hold a general contractor license prior to bidding on any residential or commercial project that exceeds $20,000. Additionally, all plumbing, HVAC/R, and electrical work also requires a license. The first step to take for your contractor license in Arkansas is to complete the application, available online or by calling the following: Contractors Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board at (501)-372-4661 Electricians (501)-682-4549 Plumbing/HVAC (501)-661-2642 You must then pass the Business and Law exam, provide a financial statement, proof of a bond, and proof of worker’s compensation insurance. You will also need to provide references who can detail your work experience.Online Courses
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Requirements
The state of California requires a contractors license prior to bidding any projects of $500 or more. This includes commercial, residential and public work construction. To obtain your contractor license in California, candidates must complete the application and pass two examinations: business and law and trade. Applications can be obtained online at the California State Licensing Board or by calling them at 1-800-321-2752. In addition to passing the required exams, candidates must show proof of a bond and four full years of experience in the past ten years; this can be at a journeyman level or as a foreman, supervisor, or contractor. This experience must be in the classification in which you’re applying.Online Courses
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Requirements
In the state of Colorado, General contractors are licensed at the municipal level and are subject to regulations passed by individual cities and towns. Contractors and aspiring contractors should check with the local government in the area they plan to do work, based on the type of work they perform. For electricians, refrigeration operators and plumbers, licensing is done by the Department of Regulatory Agencies.Online Courses
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Requirements
The state of Connecticut does not require general contractors to hold a state license. However, if you do work on residential properties you’ll be considered a Home Improvement Contractor, which requires a $120 biennial registration fee and a $480 deposit to the New Home Construction Guaranty Fund. Additionally, a license is required for Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, and “Major” work. Candidates must complete the application and pass two examinations: business and law and trade. Home Improvement is any permanent change to residential property, including but not limited to driveways, swimming pools, porches, garages, roofs, siding, insulation, flooring, patios, landscaping, painting, fences, doors and windows, and waterproofing. Candidates will also need to register with the Department of Consumer Protection. Applications for licensure can be found online with Connecticut Department of Professional Licensing or by calling 1-860-713-6135.Online Courses
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Requirements
General contractors in Delaware are not required to have a trade license but a contractors license is required for any construction or remodeling of a structure. Candidates must obtain a business license and register with the Delaware Division of Revenue as contractor licensing is for revenue purposes only. Applications for a Delaware contractors license can be found online at the Division of Revenue or by calling 1-302-577-8205. All electrical, HVAC, and plumbing work in Delaware does require a license. Applications for an electrical, plumbing, or HVAC license can be found online at the Delaware Department of Professional Regulation or by calling 1-302-744-4504.Online Courses
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Requirements
The state of Florida requires a contractors license prior to bidding on any work. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation issues licenses in various classifications, including:- General Contractor
- Building Contractor
- Residential Contractor
- Continuing Education
Online Courses
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Requirements
The state of Georgia requires a contractors license for work over $2,500 issued by the Georgia State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors. To obtain your contractor license in Georgia, candidates must complete the application and pass two examinations: Business and Law, and the Construction Exam (Residential, Residential Light Commercial, General Contractor). Additional requirements include a four-year college or university degree in a related field and one year of work experience; or a combination of college-level accredited courses and practical experience totaling four years’; or four years of work experience in a construction-related field with at least two years employed as a general contractor and one year in related fields such as marketing, management or administration. Applicants must also show proof of net worth, worker’s compensation and general liability insurance. For HVAC, Electrical, and Plumbing, candidates must pass one exam (combined business and law/trade). Pre-approval from NASCLA is the first step and then candidates can contact PSI at 1-800-733-9267 to schedule an exam.Online Courses
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Requirements
Per the Hawaii Contractor Licensing Board, “Generally, anyone who offers to, holds oneself out as able to, or contracts to perform residential, commercial, or public works construction, alterations, or improvements must hold a contractor license. A license is not required if the aggregate contract price for the project, including labor, materials, taxes, and all other items, is not more than $1,000.00 and does not require a building permit. This exemption does not apply to electrical or plumbing work requiring a permit. Furthermore, even if an electrical or plumbing permit is not required by the county on a particular project, the work may still have to be performed by a licensed electrician or plumber.” Additional requirements include providing proof of liability and worker’s compensation insurance and passing two examinations: a trade exam, as well as a business and law exam.Our Book Packages
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Requirements
While there is no state licensing requirement for general contractors in Idaho, any general contractor who performs construction work worth more than $2,000 must be registered with the Idaho Contractors Board. Additionally, each public works contract with a value of $10,000 or more requires a state public works license. HVAC, Public Works, Plumbing, Electrical, and Construction Manager Contractors are required to be licensed with the Division of Building Safety.Online Courses
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Requirements
Illinois does not require a state general contractor license as licensing is regulated at the city/county level and not at the state level. Local areas may have their own regulations so it is important to contact the city/county that you are intending on performing your work in prior for specific guidelines.Our Book Packages
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Requirements
No state license is required to work as a general contractor in the state of Indiana. Licenses are regulated at the city/county level and it’s important to check the licensing requirements with local governments before you begin work.Online Courses
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Requirements
Iowa does not have state licensing requirements for a general contractors license. However, any construction contractor (individual or business) who makes $2,000 or more a year doing construction work, must register online with the Iowa Division of Labor or by calling 1-515-242-5871. Electrical, plumbing, and hvac work do require licensure at the state level.Online Courses
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Requirements
There are no state license requirements to work as a general contractor in Kansas. However, there are local licensing requirements so check those specific guidelines before you begin work.Kentucky
Requirements
In the state of Kentucky, general contractors are regulated at the city/county level only. For specific guidelines on the area in which you want to work, check with your local city/county. Plumbing and HVAC work in Kentucky requires licensing at the state level and electrical work requires certification at the state level and licensing at the local level. For a Kentucky electrical license, applicants must pass the business and law exam. For electrical certification, applicants can find additional information at the Kentucky Department of Housing, Building and Construction.Online Courses
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Requirements
The state of Louisiana requires general contractors to hold a state license before bidding or working for any work in the amounts listed below. There are two types of licenses awarded by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors:- A residential license includes construction and home improvement projects worth more than $75,000. You’ll need to show a financial statement, as well as general liability and worker’s compensation insurance and list at least one classification.
- A Commercial license involves commercial projects worth more than $50,000. You’ll need to submit a financial statement and list at least one classification.
Online Courses
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Requirements
In the state of Maine, general construction contractors are not regulated by the state but on the local level through cities, counties, and municipalities. However, for all home construction and home improvement projects over $3,000, Maine law requires a written contract and there may be local licensing requirements so make sure to check these before you begin work. Additionally, plumbing and electrical work is regulated at the state level in Maine. To apply for a license, please contact Maine Office of Licensing and Registration at 1-207-624-8603. To schedule your exam, contact Thomson Prometric at 1-800-790-392Online Courses
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Requirements
In the state of Maryland, general contractors may or may not need a state license, depending on the work done.- New home construction does not require a state license, but does require registration with the Maryland Department of Labor, License and Regulation.
- Commercial contractors must register at the city/county level.
- Home improvement projects require a license issued by the Maryland Home Improvement Commission. Additional requirements are proof of two years of work experience in home improvement or construction or related education, proof of financial solvency, proof of insurance and passing a business and law exam.
Online Courses
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Requirements
In the state of Massachusetts, general contractors must be licensed and registered. Different types of construction jobs call for different requirements such as:- Home Improvement Contractor registration is needed to perform ordinary repairs to an existing property.
- For work on larger projects on existing properties, a Construction Supervisor License from the Office of Public Safety and Inspections is also required.
- Applicants can also apply for
- unrestricted license
- one- and two-family dwellings license
- specialty license
Online Courses
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Requirements
Commercial construction in Michigan is regulated at the local level and therefore no state licensure is needed. Commercial construction contractors must contact their local county building offices for permits or licenses. However, as a general contractor in Michigan you will need a Residential Builders license to construct, repair, alter, add to, subtract from or improve a residential structure or a combined residential and commercial structure. The first step toward getting this license is a 60-hour pre-licensure course and you must pass a Residential Builder test. The Residential Builders license is awarded by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work in Michigan also require a license.Online Courses
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Requirements
Individuals who engage with commercial or residential construction are required to be registered and licensed in the state of Minnesota. This is also the case for electrical work. Contractors and electricians must first register and apply with the Minnesota Department of Labor & Industry. Or if you prefer, you may contact them directly at (651) 284-5065. Minnesota requires contractors then complete two exams, Business and Law as well as their specialty trade, to be fully licensed.Online Courses
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Requirements
The state of Mississippi requires a contractor license if bidding on projects that fall within the following criteria:- Public works valued in excess of $50,000, including materials and labor
- Commercial projects exceeding $50,000
- Residential building construction exceeding $50,000
- Residential remodeling exceeding $10,000
Online Courses
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Requirements
Licensure of general contractors in the state of Missouri is handled at the local level. Each city and/or county handles approval and licensing. You can discover more information about becoming a contractor in the Kansas City area via their website. For more information about becoming a contractor in St Louis, please visit their website here.Online Courses
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Requirements
In the state of Montana, general contractors are required to both register and apply to become licensed. Both of these processes are completed through the Montana Department of Labor & Industry. If your focus is a specialty trade such as electrical or plumbing, you will need to apply and register, but these processes are done through a separate government entity. Electricians will need to apply and register with the State Electrical Board and Plumbers will need to go through the Montana Board of Plumbers. Plumbers and electricians will also need to complete and pass examinations.Online Courses
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Requirements
Individuals who wish to become general contractors must register with the state of Nebraska, but they do not need to be licensed by the state. All registration is done through the Nebraska Department of Labor. However, electrical work is governed at the state level and any electrician who contracts work exceeding $2500 must complete and pass the state electrical exam.Online Courses
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Requirements
General Contractors and even subcontractors must be licensed in the state of Nevada. It is required that you are at least 18 years of age and that you have at least 4 years of experience. To become a contractor in the state you will need to complete a business and law exam as well as an exam specific to your trade. To be approved to sit for the exam, you may visit the Nevada State Contractors Board or contact them directly at (775) 688-1141.Online Courses
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Requirements
New Hampshire does not require general contractors to be licensed with the state. You should however check with your local city or county to ensure there are no additional requirements. Licensure at the state level is required for some specialty trades, including electrical and plumbing. Electricians are required to complete an application, prepare and pass an examination and submit other documents to the state. More information about the electrical application process can be found at the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification. Likewise, plumbers are required to complete an application, prepare and pass examination and provide documentation. More information about the steps to become a plumber can be found at the New Hampshire Department of Safety.Online Courses
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Requirements
Individuals who wish to become a contractor in the state of New Jersey must register with the Division of Consumer Affairs and obtain a license from the Department of Banking & Insurance if financing is involved. This registration process is necessary for any contractor involved in the construction, improvement or alteration of new or existing structures. Specialty trades such as Electrical and Plumbing are licensed at the state level. Those seeking to become a licensed electrician will need to pass examination and complete the application process. More information regarding how to become a licensed electrician in the state of New Jersey can be found at the website for the Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors for New Jersey or by calling (973) 504-6410. More information for plumbing requirements can be found at the website of Division of Consumer Affairs.Online Courses
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Requirements
New Mexico requires all contractors to be licensed with the state. This includes general contractors, electricians, plumbers and any mechanical work such as HVAC. Licenses are issued by the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department. To become a licensed contractor, candidates are required to pass two examinations: business and law and their trade. Applications for licensure can obtain necessary information from the New Mexico Construction Industries Division by calling (505) 476-4500. A full list of steps to obtain a license can also be found here. Please note that pre-approval is required through the board before sitting for an examination.Online Courses
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Requirements
There are only a couple of license types in the state of New York that are approved at the state level. For general contractors, licensure is handled at the city and county level and a license must be obtained to work on any projects that exceed $200 in total project value. Contractors will need to obtain their license from either the city of New York or Buffalo and at the county level for Suffolk, Nassau, Westchester, Putnam, and Rockland. Along with your application, you will need to submit various business related documentation, be at least 18 years of age and prove your ability to read and write in English. In some cases, you may be required to complete a criminal background check. A full list of requirements can be found at NYC.gov. To contact the licensing department directly, you may call: New York Office – (212) 393-2259 West Chester – (941) 995-2155 Buffalo – (716) 851-4798 Nassau – (516) 571-2600 Suffolk – (631) 853-4600Online Courses
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Requirements
In the state of North Carolina, you must be licensed by the state for residential and commercial general contracting on projects that exceed $30,000 in total project value. You must also be licensed for any electrical, plumbing and HVAC specialty trades. License types are broken down by classification, based on size & type of project work, and based on trade. In order to be pre-qualified for the examination, you must first complete the new license application process. More information regarding the application and related process can be found on the website for the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors. If you would prefer to contact them directly for more information, you may do so by contacting: General Contractors call (919) 571-4183; Electricians call (919) 733-9042; plumbing, HVAC, and fuel piping may call (919) 875-3612. All examinations other than Electrical can be scheduled through PSI by calling (800) 733-9267. For electrical examinations, contact Promissor at (800) 204-6231.Online Courses
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Requirements
To become a licensed contractor in the state of North Dakota, you must submit an application and provide various business related documentation to the Secretary of State of North Dakota. A comprehensive list of documents and steps required can be found at their website. In addition to a contractor’s license, you may need to obtain other licenses or permits as required by law for a given trade. Specifically, for plumbing and electrical work, you will need to prepare and pass examination and be licensed if working on any projects that exceed $2,000 in value.For more information you may contact the State Electrical Board, PO Box 7335, Bismarck ND 58507 (701) 328-9522 or the State Plumbing Board, 1110 College Drive, Suite 210, Bismarck ND 58501 (701) 328-9977.Online Courses
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Requirements
Individuals seeking to become a contractor in the state of Ohio will need to do so with the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB). This institution oversees state licensing for the following professions:- Electrical
- HVAC
- Hydronics
- Plumbing
- Refrigeration.