Tennessee Contractors License Guide

How To Get Your Contractors License In Tennessee

Construction in Tennessee is booming and state-licensed contractors have more career opportunities than ever right now. That’s because licensed contractors are compliant with the state and can tackle bigger and more complex projects as the state requires licensure prior to bidding contracts $25,000 or more. This increases earning potential and provides a more consistent income for those in the construction industry.

Each state has unique licensing requirements and process for obtaining a contractor’s license, which is why we’ve created this guide. In Tennessee, applicants must first pass two exams: a Business & Law exam and a trade exam (for various classifications).

Our team here @HomePrep has helped students with Tennessee’s contractor licensing and renewals for years and created a best-selling 2 day live seminar with everything you need to pass your exams on the first try.

Contractors License Requirements

Per the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance, certain eligibility requirements must be met to apply for licensure. These include:

Pass the “Business and Law” exam, plus any required trade exam
Provide a financial statement
Provide a Reference Letter and Insurance
- Verify Workers’ Comp Insurance is Covered for Working in Tennessee
Disclose your business structure — Corporations, LLCs, and Limited/General Partnerships must register with the Secretary of State.
Submit notarized application plus $250 fee

Which Classification is Right for You?

When filling our your application, you’ll need to specify the classification of license you desire.

The most common include:

Building
Electrical
Mechanical
Plumbing
HVAC
Masonry
Roofing
Highways
Environmental
Specialties,

Additionally, Tennessee has other classifications. Click here to view a more complete list.

Steps to Get Your License

Step 1 – Prepare for your exams

All applicants must pass the business and law exam plus any required trade exam and provide scores to the state with their application.

Step 2 – Take Your Exam

You can schedule your exam through PSI here.

Step 3 – Provide your financial statement

The required financial statement must be prepared by a CPA/LPA and will be one of the following:

Reviewed Financial Statement (required for a monetary limit of $1,500,000 or less). Renewal does not require a Review and an in-house statement may be provided
Audited Financial Statement (required for a monetary limit exceeding $1,500,000) Renewal does not require an Audit; may supply a Review or Audit from a CPA

Click here for further information on financial statements.

Step 4 – Submit a proof of insurance and reference letter

Your reference letter must be provided by someone with past experience working with you such as a previous employer or client.

You will also need to provide proof of general liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance.

Step 5 – Register your business with Tennessee Secretary of State

All applicants must show proof of registration of the business with the state, including registration for a tax ID number as well.

The Secretary of State’s office may be contacted at (615) 741-2286 or click here to view the website.

Step 6 – Submit application

Once all of the requirements have been met, you will submit your application plus the $250 fee to the Board for review.

Online Course for Exam Prep

We specialize in contractor licensing, helping contractors grow their careers through exam prep and continuing education.

We offer review for the Tennessee contractor exam with our best-selling live seminar. Over the course of two days, our instructors guide you through highlighting and tabbing the associated exam books for fast and easy reference during the test.

This live, two-day seminar includes:

Tennessee Residential/Commercial/Industrial Contractor License
Tennessee Business and Law
Online Course
Test Taking Tips
Highlighting Guides
Practice Tests
Pre-printed Permanent Tabs
Instructor Support

Related Resources & Links

Popular State Contractor Exam Prep Courses

List and link to relevant AHP courses and books (try to find at least 3 products or courses to link to)

Tennessee Contractor Complete Package

Tennessee Contractor Seminar Only

Tennessee Limited Residential Contractor

Useful Links & Information

List additional state contact info, if applicable, for licensing offices, business formation websites, etc

Tennessee Board For Licensing Contractors

Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance

Testimonials & Reviews

“As a busy contractor, it is nice to find a valuable source that can help fulfill my obligations from testing prep to CEU requirements. I recommend AtHomePrep for any and all license and training needs.”

— Ken R

“I have finally experienced customer satisfaction in the highest form. You guys are so much more than a voice or words on the other side of the phone or screen, you are all real people who really care!”

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