Working as a general contractor offers a rewarding and in-demand career. As the construction industry grows, communities increasingly depend on contractors to build homes, construct buildings, and repair crucial infrastructure. 

The construction industry provides financial stability with substantial earning potential  The median pay for a construction manager in the U.S. is more than $100,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The job outlook looks promising too, with the employment of construction managers projected to grow 9%, much faster than the average for all occupations, by 2033. 

If you're looking for a career that combines trade skills, problem-solving, and the opportunity to earn a good living, consider becoming a general contractor or construction professional. 

Licensing requirements vary widely from state to state. More than half of the states issue licensing at the state level, while 23 either simply require a registration or leave licensing up to cities or counties. 

Some states have strict work experience and licensing requirements, while others have minimal regulations. The most common requirements are:

• Providing references

• Paying application fees

• Passing an exam

• Obtaining general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance (if you have employees)

• Posting a surety bond

• Providing proof of financial stability

In addition, states have various license types based on the construction services performed. These include commercial contractor licenses, residential contractor licenses, residential remodeler licenses, home builders, and home improvement contractors. 

This guide provides a state-by-state breakdown of general contractor licensing and regulation requirements in all 50 states. 

Alabama

In Alabama, commercial contractors, commercial subcontractors, and residential contractors  are required to obtain a license for projects that cost a minimum amount.

• Prime contractors, also called general contractors, must be licensed by the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors if the project’s labor and materials cost $50,000 or more.

• Subcontractors under contract to a licensed prime contractor must hold a subcontractor license if their contract is valued at $50,000 or more, including labor and materials.

• A contractor must hold a Home Builders license from the State of Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board for the construction, remodeling, repair, or improvement of a residential structure in which the cost, including labor and materials, exceeds $10,000.

To get a prime contractor or general contractor license, you must fill out the application, submit three references who can verify work experience, pay application fees, and pass an exam. 

For the residential license, you need to submit a business-related credit report, fill out an application, pass an exam, and pay the license fee.

View the full Alabama General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Alaska

A contractor license from the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing is required to perform most work legally in the state of Alaska. 

• Commercial contractors must obtain the General Contractor without Residential Endorsement license.

• To perform both commercial and residential work, the General Contractor with Residential Contractor Endorsement is required. 

• Contractors who provide a limited use of specific construction techniques or materials as part of one specialty trade, such as flooring, carpentry, drywall, masonry, sheet metal, and painting, must obtain a Specialty Contractor license.

• Contractors who work on one project with an aggregate contract price of $10,000 or less, including all labor, materials, and other items, need a Handyman Contractor license. 

The licensure process is roughly the same for all license types and includes obtaining general liability and workers’ compensation insurance (if you have employees), filling out the contractor license application via the MY LICENSE self-service portal, and paying application and registration fees. The Residential Endorsement also requires taking a 16-hour cold-climate course and passing an exam. 

View the full Alaska General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Arizona

A contractor license from the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC) is required to perform most work legally in the state of Arizona. The license classifications include:

• General Commercial Contractor

• General Residential Contractor

• General Dual Contractor (to perform residential and commercial work)

• Specialty Contractor (for specific trades)

To obtain a license, you must fill out the required application, pay application and licensing fees, pass an exam, post a surety bond, and complete a criminal background check. General Residential license holders must also pay $370 to the Recovery Fund Assessment during the application process.

View the full Arizona General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Arkansas

A contractor license is necessary to perform most work legally in Arkansas. The Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board issues the following types of licenses for contractors who work on commercial and residential projects: 

• A Residential Builders license is needed to build a single-family residence if the cost of the project is more than $2,000.

• A Residential Remodelers license is required to make major structural changes to a single-family residence or to add on to an existing single-family residence if the project is more than $2,000.

• A Commercial Contractors license is required if a contractor performs commercial work of $50,000 or more.

• A Home Improvement license is needed for specialty work (roofing, flooring, painting) on a single-family residence if the project is more than $2,000.

Subcontractors only need to register with the licensing board as long as they work under a licensed contractor. 

Each license type requires references who can verify work experience, and the residential and commercial licenses also require a minimum amount of work experience:

• Residential Builders: Five years of experience

• Residential Remodelers: Four years of experience

• Commercial Contractors: Two years of experience

In addition, applicants are required to fill out an application, pay a license fee, pass an exam, complete a criminal background check, obtain a contractor bond, and obtain workers’ compensation insurance if they have employees.  

View the full Arkansas General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

California

A contractor license from the California Contractors State License Board is required to perform work valuing more than $500 in labor and materials in the state of California. There are four relevant license classes: 

• The Class A General Engineering Contractor license is for contractors who principally work on public-works projects like highways, bridges, harbors or docks or industrial projects like refineries, chemical plants, and power plants.

• The Class B General Building Contractor license enables a contractor to perform commercial or residential contracting work, including initial construction, service and replacement to properties.   

• The Class B-2 Residential Remodeling Contractor license is for repairs or improvements to existing residential wood structures.

• The Class C Specialty Contractor license covers special trades, like HVAC or plumbing.

The process to obtain a license requires filling out an application, passing an exam, paying an application fee, completing a criminal background check, obtaining workers’ compensation insurance if you have employees, and posting a contractor bond. 

View the full California General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Colorado

Colorado doesn’t require a state-level license for general contractors. Instead, many cities have contractor license requirements within their jurisdictions. 

Denver requires a Construction Supervisor Certificate from the city’s Community Planning and Development before you can receive a contractor license. To obtain one, you need to fill out the application, pay a license fee, and pass an exam. Then, you can apply for the contractor license.

The Pikes Peak Regional Building Department issues building contractor licenses in Colorado Springs. The process to obtain one includes filling out the license application, paying an application fee, submitting references, submitting a Certificate of Good Standing from the Colorado Secretary of State, passing a background check, taking an exam, and paying a license fee.

View the full Colorado General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Connecticut

Connecticut doesn’t require a general contractor license. Instead, there are a few required registrations with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP), Occupational & Professional Licensing Division. They include:

• A Major Contractor registration is required for the construction, structural repair, structural alteration, dismantling, or demolition of a structure or addition that exceeds any of the following threshold limits: 

  • 4 stories

  • 60 feet in height

  • 150 feet in width

  • 150,000 square feet of gross floor area

  • Has an occupancy of 1,000+ people

• A Home Improvement Contractor registration is required for any residential projects valued over $200.

• New Home Construction Contractor registration is required for any person who contracts with a consumer to construct a new home or any portion of a new home prior to occupancy.

The process includes registering your business with the Connecticut Secretary of State’s Office, filling out an application, paying an application fee, providing references, completing a criminal background check, and obtaining general liability insurance, plus workers’ compensation insurance if you have employees.

View the full Connecticut General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Delaware

There’s no statewide general contractor license in Delaware. Instead, contractors are required to register as a Construction Contractor and obtain a business license from the Delaware Division of Revenue.

The registration process involves applying via the state’s One Stop portal, obtaining a business license from the Delaware Division of Revenue, paying a registration fee, completing a background check, obtaining liability, workers’ compensation, and unemployment insurance, and purchasing a surety bond. 

View the full Delaware General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Florida

The state of Florida requires contractors to hold a state contractor license from the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). 

• A General Contractor license is required for a contractor whose services are unlimited as to the type of work.

• A Building Contractor license allows a contractor to perform the construction of commercial buildings, single-dwelling or multiple-dwelling residential buildings, and accessory structures. The buildings cannot exceed three stories in height. This license also allows the contractor to legally perform remodeling, repair, or improvement of any size building, if the services do not affect structural elements.

Contractors may also choose between certified or registered licenses. For a certified license, applicants must pass a state examination, but can then work in any jurisdiction in the state. Those holding registered licenses may contract only in the jurisdictions in which they hold a local license.

The process to obtain a contractor license is roughly the same for both types, except the exam requirement for certified licenses. You must meet experience requirements, complete a criminal background check, provide proof of financial stability, obtain public liability and property damage insurance, fill out an application, and pay a fee.

View the full Florida General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Georgia

In Georgia, a contractor license from the State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors is required to perform most work legally. 

• A Residential Basic Contractor license is required for any type of residential construction or remodeling work valued over $2,500. 

• A Residential Light Commercial Contractor license allows the license holder to complete any type of residential construction or remodeling work valued over $2,500 or work on commercial buildings under four stories and less than 25,000 square feet.

• A General Contractor license allows the holder to perform any type of commercial or residential work with no restrictions.

• A General Contractor Limited Tier license allows the holder to perform any type of commercial or residential work valued up to $1 million.

To obtain a contractor license in Georgia, you must meet experience requirements, fill out the application, pass a licensing exam, obtain general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance (applies to employers with 3+ employees), complete a criminal background check, and demonstrate financial responsibility. 

View the full Georgia General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Hawaii

In Hawaii, a contractor license from the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Professional & Vocational Licensing Division is required to perform work valuing more than $1,000 in labor and materials.

• A General Engineering Contractor license is required for fixed works projects such as highways, tunnels, bridges, harbors, drainage, and water power.

• A General Building Contractor license is required for the construction of residential, commercial, or industrial structures involving more than two unrelated building trades.

• A Specialty Contractor license is required for contractors who specialize in a specific skill, like drywall, masonry, or plumbing.

The process to obtain a contractor license in Hawaii includes demonstrating four years of work experience in the license classification you want to obtain, filling out an application, paying an application fee, passing an exam, and showing proof of general liability insurance, as well as workers’ compensation insurance if you have employees.  

View the full Hawaii General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Idaho

Idaho doesn’t require a contractor license. Instead, contractors performing work costing $2,000 or more in labor and materials are required to register with the Idaho State Contractors Board. The registration process involves filling out an application, obtaining liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance if you have employees, and paying an application fee.

View the full Idaho General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Illinois

A contractor license is necessary to perform most work legally in Illinois, but those licenses are issued at the city or county level rather than the state level. 

In Chicago, a General Contractor license from the Chicago Department of Buildings is required to perform most types of building construction, alteration, repair, and demolition work. To obtain this license, you need to fill out a license application, pay a license fee, pass an exam, and provide proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance.

In Aurora, you need a General Contractor license issued by the Division of Buildings and Permits to install, supervise, maintain, or repair any work for which a building permit is required by the city code. To obtain this license, you need to complete the application, pay a registration fee, post a surety bond, and obtain general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. 

Contractors should verify license requirements in each Illinois locality they intend to work. 

View the full Illinois General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Indiana

Indiana doesn’t require a general contractor license at the state level, leaving it up to the cities and counties to issue licensing in their jurisdictions. 

Indianapolis requires a General Contractor license through the Department of Business and Neighborhood Services for residential and commercial contractors. To obtain this license, you need to complete the licensing application, show proof of general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance to cover any employees, and post a surety bond. 

The City of Evansville and County of Vanderburgh require a contractor license from the City of Evansville Building Commission. There are two types: 

• A Building General Contractor license is required for a contractor engaged in the business of wrecking, constructing, installing, repairing, remodeling, or servicing any structural or nonstructural portions of any multi-family residential, commercial, or industrial building, including all roof coverings and site work. 

• A Residential General Contractor license is required for a contractor engaged in the business of wrecking, constructing, installing, repairing, remodeling, or servicing any structural or nonstructural portions of any one- or two-family dwellings and residential or agricultural building, including residential roof coverings and site work.

To obtain either license type, you must complete the license application, pass an exam, post a surety bond, obtain general liability and workers’ compensation insurance, and pay a license fee.

View the full Indiana General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Iowa

While Iowa doesn’t offer a contractor license, the state requires all individuals and businesses performing construction work who earn more than $2,000 a year to register  as a Construction Contractor with the Iowa Division of Labor.

The process involves filling out an application, paying a fee, completing a criminal background check, obtaining workers’ compensation insurance if you have employees, and posting a $25,000 surety bond. 

View the full Iowa General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Kansas

The only state-level requirement for general contractors in Kansas is to register their business entity with the Kansas Secretary of State. This requires creating an account and following the prompts online. General partnerships and sole proprietors are exempt from having to register. 

In addition, some localities have licensing requirements.  

• Johnson County requires a Contractor license through the Department of Planning, Housing, and Community Development for residential and commercial construction. 

• Sedgwick County requires a General Contractor license through the Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department (MABCD). 

To obtain the Johnson County license, you must either earn a Bachelor of Science degree in a related field or pass an ICC (International Code Council) test, obtain general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance if you have employees, submit the application, and pay a fee. 

In Sedgwick County, applicants must pass an exam, obtain general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance if you have employees, obtain a certificate of good standing from the Secretary of State (sole proprietors are exempt), and submit the required application with a $50 fee.

View the full Kansas General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Kentucky

There’s no state-level license requirement in Kentucky, but some cities enforce their own regulations for general contractors. 

In Lexington, contractors must register their business with the city. This requires a certificate of occupancy for your place of business, an occupational business license, and general liability and workers’ compensation insurance (if you have employees). 

Louisville requires contractors to obtain a Contractor’s license from the Louisville Metro Department of Codes and Regulations.This requires obtaining workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance if you have employees, getting an occupational license from the Office of Revenue Commission, and filling out an application using the city’s online business portal. 

View the full Kentucky General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Louisiana

A state contractor license from the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors is required for most projects in Louisiana. There are three classifications.

• A Commercial Contractor license enables the holder to perform commercial work valuing $50,000 or more.

• The Residential Contractor license is required for residential contracting work valuing $75,000 or more.

• A Home Improvement Contractor license is required to perform residential home improvement projects valued higher than $7,500 but less than $75,000.

The license process includes applying via an online portal, paying an application fee, passing an exam, completing a criminal background check, submitting a financial statement showing a minimum of $10,000 net worth. Residential Home Improvement applicants also need general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.

View the full Louisiana General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Maine

Maine doesn’t regulate general contractors at the state level. In addition, most municipalities have few, if any, licensing requirements. Contractors are simply required to obtain a business license in the municipality where they plan to work, and provide a contract with specific information for any construction projects valuing $3,000 or more. 

View the full Maine General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Maryland

Maryland requires a license from the Maryland Home Improvement Commission to legally perform most work in the state. There are two license classifications.

• A Home Improvement Contractor license is required to legally perform home improvement work that includes alteration, remodeling, repair or replacement of a building or part of a building used as a residence.

• A Home Improvement Salesperson license enables the holder to represent a licensed contractor in contract negotiations and sell services, but not physically perform contracting work. 

Though the license is called the Maryland Home Improvement Contractor license, it allows the holder to legally perform commercial or residential contracting work.

The steps to obtain the license include demonstrating two years of work experience or related education, filling out an application, paying the application fee, passing an exam, completing a criminal background check, obtaining general liability insurance, and providing proof of financial solvency or posting a surety bond of $20,000.

View the full Maryland General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Massachusetts

A contractor license is required to perform most construction projects legally in Massachusetts.

• A Construction Supervisor license is required to legally perform commercial or residential (one- and two-family homes) contracting work on structures smaller than 35,000 cubic feet. 

• For work on existing one- to four-family owner-occupied homes, a licensed Construction Supervisor also needs to be a registered Home Improvement Contractor. 

To register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation, Home Improvement Contractor Program, you must fill out an application, pay a registration fee, and make a mandatory payment to the Guaranty Fund based on the size of your company.

The process to become a Construction Supervisor includes demonstrating three years of experience, passing an exam, and submitting an application to the Office of Public Safety and Inspections. Application instructions are sent upon passing the exam. 

View the full Massachusetts General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Michigan

A contractor license from the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) is required to perform work valuing more than $600 in labor and materials.

• A Residential Builder license is required for the construction, repair, alteration, or improvement of a residential structure or commercial structure. 

• A Maintenance & Alteration Contractor license is for individuals who are focused on a specific trade, such as masonry, roofing, tile, or waterproofing. 

To become licensed, you must complete 60 hours of approved pre-licensure courses, fill out the application, pay a license processing fee, and pass an exam. 

View the full Michigan General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Minnesota

In Minnesota, a contractor license is required for residential work valued at $15,000 or more.

• A Residential Remodeler license is required to perform work on existing structures.

• A Residential Building Contractor license allows the holder to perform work on existing structures and build new structures.

To obtain a residential license, you must register with the Secretary of State, pass an exam, acquire general liability and workers’ compensation insurance, apply for the license, and pay a fee.

Commercial contractors and subcontractors who do not contract with the homeowner are required to register with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry through the Construction Contractor Registration Program. This requires a Secretary of State business filing, workers’ compensation insurance and an unemployment insurance account with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development if the contractor has employees, and completing the registration process online.

View the full Minnesota General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Mississippi

In Mississippi, commercial and residential contractors must be licensed by the Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC).

• A Commercial Building Construction license qualifies the holder for construction of commercial buildings and single-dwelling or multiple-dwelling residential structures valued higher than $50,000. 

• A Residential Building license is required for work on residential structures costing more than $50,000 and allows contractors to work on commercial projects of a certain size.

• A Residential Remodeler license qualifies the holder to do remodeling, repair, or improvement work on any residential building or structure not more than three floors high and costing more than $10,000. 

The process to obtain a license includes registering with the Mississippi Secretary of State, obtaining general liability insurance (and workers’ compensation insurance for companies with five or more employees), providing three reference letters and three work examples, passing an exam, submitting a financial statement, filling out the application (commercial or residential), and paying an application fee.

View the full Mississippi General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Missouri

There’s no state general contractor license in Missouri. Instead, localities regulate the industry.

• St. Louis requires all contractors and subcontractors to obtain a Construction Industry Contractor Graduated Business License.

• In Kansas City, residential contractors need a Residential Building Contractor license from the Kansas City Planning and Development Department. 

To obtain a Construction Industry Contractor Graduated Business License in St. Louis, you must procure workers’ compensation insurance or fill out an exemption affidavit, register with the State of Missouri for a State Sales Tax Number, submit the application, and pay a fee.

To obtain a Residential Building Contractor license in Kansas City, you must pass an exam, procure general liability insurance, apply online via Compass KC, and pay a fee. 

View the full Missouri General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Montana

In the state of Montana, “anyone who adds to or takes away from a structure, project, development, or improvement attached to real estate” must register as a contractor with the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.

There are two types of contractor registrations in Montana:

• Construction Contractor: Required for all businesses in the building and construction industry that have employees.

• Independent Contractor: For contractors who are engaged in their own independently established business, occupation, trade, or profession. Must be free from control or direction of a hiring agent. Independent contractors must provide documentation totaling 15 points to prove they have real experience in a trade or occupation. Point values are determined by the Montana Department of Labor & Industry.

If you start a limited liability partnership, limited liability company, or corporation, you must register with the Montana Secretary of State’s office and obtain workers’ compensation insurance. To begin the process, fill out the required contractor registration application.

View the full Montana General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Nebraska

Nebraska doesn’t offer a state-issued general contractor license. Instead, the Nebraska Contractor Registration Act requires all general contractors and subcontractors doing business in the state to register with the Nebraska Department of Labor and pay a $25 fee. 

Many Nebraska counties issue contractor licenses for work performed in their jurisdictions and have their own licensing requirements. 

For example, Douglas County offers five classifications of contractor licenses and requires contractors to obtain a $10,000 bond and general liability insurance. You also need to pay a license fee and take an exam, depending on the license class. The City of Omaha Planning Department outlines the licensing process on its website. 

View the full Nebraska General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Nevada

The Nevada State Contractors Board requires all construction businesses or individuals who construct or alter any building, highway, road, parking facility, railroad, excavation, or other structure to obtain a contractor license. 

There are three classes of contractor licenses in Nevada:

• Class A — General Engineering Contractor: For fixed works requiring specialized engineering knowledge or skill, like bridges, tunnels, and water supply systems. 

• Class B — General Building Contractor: For the construction or remodeling of buildings or structures for the support, shelter, and enclosure of people, animals, or property of any kind, requiring the use of more than two unrelated building trades or crafts.

• Class C — Specialty Contractor: For contractors whose principal contracting business and construction work involves the use of specialized building trades or crafts.

In Nevada, the license holder must complete the license application, register their business with the Nevada Secretary of State, demonstrate four years of documented work experience as a journeyman or supervising employee in the specific license classification, pass a Business and Law and trade exam, and obtain workers’ compensation insurance. 

View the full Nevada General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire leaves contractor licensing up to each municipality. However, most New Hampshire cities and towns also lack any type of general contractor license. 

Instead, contractors usually need to obtain workers’ compensation insurance if they have employees, purchase liability insurance or surety bonds. The only state requirement is that all businesses operating in the state must register with the New Hampshire Secretary of State’s office.

View the full New Hampshire General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

New Jersey

The state of New Jersey doesn’t issue a general contractor license. Instead, New Jersey contractors must register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. The state also offers a Home Repair license for contractors who offer customer financing.

New Jersey contractor licenses include:

• Home Improvement Contractor: For contractors involved in repairing, renovating, modernizing, installing, replacing, improving, restoring, painting, constructing, remodeling, moving, or demolishing residential or non-commercial properties valued over $500.

• Home Repair Contractor: For home improvement contractors who execute financed home repair contracts on the goods or services provided to New Jersey consumers for home repair work.

You must also specify the type of contracting business, such as sole proprietorship, LLC, or partnership, and provide proof of general liability insurance. You need to provide a disclosure statement that lists all parties with an ownership of 10% or more. Home Repair Contractors also need to obtain workers’ compensation insurance. 

View the full New Jersey General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

New Mexico

A contractor license is required for most general construction work in the state of New Mexico. The New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department (NMRLD) Construction Industries Division (CID) issues all contractor licenses.

New Mexico offers several contractor license classifications. The two main classifications for general contractors include:

• GB-2 Residential: Allows the licensee to erect, alter, repair, or demolish homes, residences, and apartment houses accommodating four family units or less.

• GB-98 General Building: Allows the licensee to erect, alter, repair, or demolish residential and commercial buildings and certain structures. 

GB-2 Residential license holders must demonstrate two years of work experience, while GB-98 General Building license holders need four years of experience.

Additional requirements include passing an exam via PSI, completing the license application, and obtaining a contractor license bond of $10,000.

View the full New Mexico General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

New York

General contractors in New York are licensed at the local level. The requirements vary in each location.

For example, New York City offers two contractor classifications:

• General Contractor Registration: Contractors who build one-, two-, and three-family homes must register with the New York City Department of Buildings to obtain new building permits.

• Home Improvement Contractor License: Contractors who construct, repair, remodel, or perform other home improvement work to any residential land or building must hold a license from the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection.

General Contractors in NYC must obtain a general liability insurance certificate with a $1 million minimum policy, workers’ compensation insurance certificate, and disability insurance certificate. Licensure also requires showing a financial statement of at least $25,000 and paying a registration fee.

NYC Home Improvement Contractors must obtain a business certificate, sales tax identification number, and workers’ compensation insurance, and also show proof of a business address. Home Improvement Contractors must also complete a background check, including fingerprinting, submit the contractual compliance agreement, and pass the license exam via the city’s ExamBuilder.

View the full New York General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

North Carolina

A General Contractor license is required for any contractor performing construction activity of $40,000 or more in value. Licenses are issued by the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors. 

In North Carolina, licenses are broken down into limitation and classification. Limitation determines the value of projects that can be completed with the license. Classification determines the type of work that can be performed with the license.

North Carolina contractor license classifications include:

• Building Contractor: Covers all building construction and demolition activity, including commercial, industrial, institutional, and all residential building construction.

• Residential Contractor: Covers all construction and demolition activity pertaining to the construction of residential units that are required to conform to the Residential Building Code. 

• Specialty Contractor: Several specialty classifications apply, including roofing,​ masonry, driveways, swimming pools, excavating, and asbestos abatement.

North Carolina contractor license limitations include:

• Limited License: Enables the contractor to work on projects valued up to $750,000.

• Intermediate License: Enables the contractor to work on projects valued up to $1,500,000.

• Unlimited License: Contractor faces no monetary restrictions.

All applicants need to submit the contractor license application and pay the application fee. You must also meet financial requirements, including submitting an audited financial statement demonstrating fiscal responsibility prepared by a CPA, or a surety bond. Amounts are based on the license limitation.

North Carolina requires at least one “qualified individual” to pass a Business and Law and trade exam administered by PSI Exams based on their classification.

View the full North Carolina General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

North Dakota

In North Dakota, a contractor license is required to perform any construction work valued higher than $4,000. Construction work includes remodeling, building, and altering buildings and structures. Contractor licensing is administered by the North Dakota Secretary of State.

North Dakota offers four contractor license classifications, based on the maximum value of the job, including:

• Class A: Over $500,000 per job

• Class B: Up to $500,000 per job

• Class C: Up to $300,000 per job

• Class D: Up to $100,000 per job

Contractors need to register their businesses and obtain general liability insurance, and also purchase workers’ compensation if they have any employees. Access the online application via the FirstStop Portal.

View the full North Dakota General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Ohio

There is no statewide general contractor license in Ohio. Instead, Ohio’s municipalities enact local licensing requirements. 

For example, the City of Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services issues two types of contractor licenses: 

• General Contractor: Allows the license holder to perform construction of all new structures or buildings, and structural additions, alterations, or repairs to existing commercial or multi-family dwellings.

• Home Improvement General Contractor: Allows the license holder to perform structural additions, alterations, or repairs to existing one-, two-, and three-family dwellings, and construction of accessory structures and/or garages for one-, two-, and three-family dwellings. 

Applicants need to complete the license application and pay all required fees. Home Improvement General Contractors must pass the 767 Ohio Home Improvement Contractor exam via the International Code Council and Pearson VUE, and also demonstrate three years of work experience. 

To register as a General Contractor in Cincinnati, you need to fill out an application with the Department of Buildings and Inspections and include a certificate of liability insurance coverage, proof of workers’ compensation insurance, and pay the application fee.

View the full Ohio General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Oklahoma

There is no statewide general contractor license in Oklahoma. However, many cities and counties enforce their own regulations for general contractors.

For example, Oklahoma City requires a Building Contractor registration to perform construction work and pull building permits. Licenses are issued by the Oklahoma City Department of Development Services.

In addition to applying online, other requirements include obtaining liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $50,000 per occurrence, workers’ compensation insurance, and providing proof of lawful presence in the U.S.

View the full Oklahoma General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Oregon

Oregon requires a license to perform any type of construction activity for compensation. This includes residential and commercial work, whether initial construction projects or renovations to existing structures. Licensing is overseen by the Oregon Construction Contractors Board.

Oregon offers multiple residential and commercial license endorsements. Contractors with a residential endorsement may work on residential and small commercial structures. Contractors with a commercial endorsement may work on both large and small commercial projects. 

The Oregon Construction Contractors Board includes a guide to becoming a licensed contractor that explains each endorsement in detail. 

Additional requirements include obtaining job experience relevant to your specific endorsement, as well as a surety bond, general liability insurance, and workers’ compensation insurance. 

You must also designate a Responsible Managing Individual, who will take a 16-hour training course and pass the licensing exam, which is based on the NASCLA Contractors Guide to Business, Law and Project Management (Oregon version).

View the full Oregon General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania leaves most licensing requirements up to each municipality. However, the Pennsylvania Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act requires most Home Improvement Contractors (HIC) to register with the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.

To register as a Home Improvement Contractor, you must specify the structure of your contracting business and provide a copy of your business license. 

You must also provide proof of insurance coverage in the amount of at least $50,000 for bodily harm and at least $50,000 for property damage. 

In Philadelphia, a Contractor license is required for any work that involves construction, demolition, or repair and doesn’t require a specialized trade license, such as for electrical work. The city’s Department of Licenses and Inspections issues this license.

Philadelphia contractors need to submit the license application, complete OSHA 30 Construction Safety and Health training, and provide evidence of general liability insurance in the amount of $500,000 per occurrence and workers’ compensation insurance with the following amounts: $100,000 per accident, $100,000 per employee, $500,000 policy limit.

In Pittsburgh, a General Contractor license is required for any work that requires a commercial building permit, as well as for the construction of one- and two-family dwellings. This license is issued by the City of Pittsburgh Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections.

Pittsburgh contractors need to submit the license application, purchase general liability and workers’ compensation insurance, and obtain the EPA Lead, Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) certification.

View the full Pennsylvania General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island requires any person who works under a contract where labor and materials exceed $500 to register as a contractor with the Rhode Island Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board.

To register, you need to submit the license application and pay all fees, obtain a certificate of liability insurance of at least $500,000 and a certificate of workers’ compensation insurance, and also acquire a business ID from the Rhode Island Secretary of State.

All candidates must provide documentation of the completion of an approved five-hour pre-registration course. 

View the full Rhode Island General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

South Carolina

A General Contractor’s license is required to perform residential and commercial construction work valued at more than $10,000 in the state of South Carolina. The South Carolina Contractor’s Licensing Board issues the license. 

There are five General Contractor groups, each with its own bid and job valuation limit:

• Group 1: $100,000

• Group 2: $400,000

• Group 3: $1,000,000

• Group 4: $3,000,000

• Group 5: Unlimited

And there are two General Contractor classifications: 

• Limited Building Contractor: Construction up to three stories in height (Groups 1-3 of job contract limits).

• Unlimited General Contractor: Groups 1-5.

The General Contractor license requires passing a Business and Law and trade exam, demonstrating two years of qualified work experience over the last five years, obtaining a surety bond, and paying a $350 licensing fee. 

South Carolina also offers a Residential Home Builder license for a contractor who “constructs, superintends, or offers to construct or superintend the construction, repair, improvement, or reimprovement of a residential building or structure which is not over three floors in height and which does not have more than 16 units in any single apartment building, when the cost of the undertaking exceeds $5,000.”

The Residential Home Builder license is issued by the South Carolina Residential Builders Commission. The license requires three reference letters documenting at least one year of work experience in the last five years, a copy of a credit report, a surety bond, a $135 application fee, and passing an exam. 

View the full South Carolina General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

South Dakota

South Dakota leaves licensing requirements up to cities and counties.

The City of Sioux Falls offers a Residential Building Contractor license for contractors who work on residential one- and two-family dwellings and townhomes within the city limits. Contractors must hold a Residential Building Contractor license for any services that require a building permit, such as new construction, building sheds and decks, or basement remodeling.

To become licensed, Sioux Falls contractors must complete the license application and obtain a state contractor’s tax license from the South Dakota Department of Revenue. Other requirements include passing the Construction Supervisor examination, obtaining a $20,000 compliance bond, and submitting a certificate of general liability insurance with a minimum of $300,000 in coverage. 

View the full South Dakota General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Tennessee

Tennessee contractors who bid on or undertake projects costing $25,000 or more, including materials and labor, must hold a General Contractor license issued by the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors.

Tennessee offers several General Contractor license classifications, including Building Construction, Heavy Construction, Mechanical Contracting, and more.

In addition to completing the license application, General Contractor license requirements include passing a trade exam and the Tennessee Business and Law exam, submitting a financial statement prepared by a CPA, obtaining general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance, submitting proof of business registration, and submitting a notarized contractor’s affidavit.

Tennessee contractors performing residential remodeling work costing $3,000 to $24,999 may need to hold a Home Improvement License, but this only applies in specific counties that have adopted that law. Licensing requirements are similar to the General Contractor license. Visit this page for more information.

View the full Tennessee General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Texas

Texas leaves licensing requirements up to municipalities.  

The city of San Antonio Department of Development Services offers the following licenses:

• Residential Building Contractor: For new residential construction, alterations or remodeling of existing homes involving structural work, additions to residential structures, and foundation repairs or detached accessory buildings greater than 400 square feet.

• Home Improvement Contractor: For non-structural remodeling alterations, conversions, modernizations, and detached accessory buildings 400 square feet and smaller.

To qualify for a Residential Building Contractor license, you need to obtain a Residential International Code Council (ICC) certification and pass an FBI background check. You must show proof of a certificate of liability insurance with a minimum of $500,000 per occurrence combined for property damage and bodily injury, with $1 million as the minimum total amount the policy will pay for property damage and bodily injury, and a minimum of $500,000 for products and completed operations.

Home Improvement Contractors need to pass an FBI background check and show proof of a certificate of liability insurance with a minimum of $300,000 per occurrence combined for property damage and bodily injury, with $600,000 as the minimum total amount the policy will pay for property damage and bodily injury, and a minimum of $300,000 for products and completed operations.

Dallas offers several contractor license classifications, issued by the Planning and Development department, including:

• Commercial General Contractor

• Residential General Contractor

• Demolition Contractor

• Fence Contractor

• Foundation Contractor

• Pool Contractor

• Roofing Contractor

To qualify for licensure, you must show proof of an established business address within the Dallas city limits, assign members of the business to the city’s Contractor Registration, and pay the $120 registration fee. 

View the full Texas General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Utah

In Utah, a General Contractor license is required for any construction work valued higher than $3,000. Licensing is overseen by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. 

Utah offers several license classifications, including:

• B100 General Contractor

• R100 Residential/Small Commercial Contractor

• E100 General Engineering Contractor

• P200 General Plumbing Contractor

• P201 Residential Plumbing Contractor

• E200 General Electrical Contractor

• E201 Residential Electrical Contractor

The licensing requirements for each classification are roughly the same. To begin the process, you must complete a 30-hour pre-license course from the Associated Builders and Contractors Inc. (ABC), Utah Home Builders Association (UHBA), or Associated General Contractors of Utah (AGC).

Other requirements include submitting the license application, passing the Utah Business & Law Exam, and obtaining general liability insurance with the minimum required coverage of $100,000 for each incident and $300,000 in total. You also need workers’ compensation insurance if you have employees.

View the full Utah General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Vermont

Residential contractors who perform construction work valued at $10,000 or higher, including labor and materials, must register with the Vermont Secretary of State Office of Professional Regulation.

Municipalities generally only require contractors to obtain building permits for projects. 

Requirements include registering your business with the Corporations Division and obtaining general liability insurance with a minimum of $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate. 

Contractors must have a contract agreement in place before accepting deposits or beginning work on projects valued at $10,000 or higher.

View the full Vermont General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Virginia

Virginia requires a Contractor license for any kind of initial residential or commercial construction, repair, or maintenance work valuing more than $1,000. The Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) issues all licenses in the state of Virginia. 

Virginia license classifications include: 

• Class A: For a business that performs or manages construction, removal, repair, or improvements of a single contract of $120,000 or more, or the total value of projects in a 12-month period is $750,000 or more.

• Class B: For a business that performs or manages construction, removal, repair, or improvements of a single contract of $10,000 or more but less than $120,000, or the total value of projects in a 12-month period is $150,000 or more but less than $750,000.

• Class C: For a business that performs or manages construction, removal, repair, or improvements of a single contract of $1,000 but no more than $10,000, or the total value of projects in a 12-month period is no more than $150,000.

The licensing requirements for each classification are roughly the same. To begin, you must register your business with the Virginia State Corporation Commission and the Virginia Department of Taxation. 

You must designate a qualified individual for the license who has the following experience:

• Class A contractor: 5 years of experience

• Class B contractor: 3 years of experience

• Class C contractor: 2 years of experience

Other requirements include completing an approved eight-hour pre-license course, demonstrating financial solvency, and passing the Contractor Business Exam via PSI. 

View the full Virginia General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Washington

The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (LNI) requires all contractors to be licensed. 

Washington offers two types of contractor licenses:

• General Contractor License: This license allows contractors to perform most types of construction work. They can hire subcontractors in multiple specialties. Contractors working with plumbing, electrical, elevators, mobile home installation, boilers, and asbestos must follow additional requirements.

• Specialty Contractor License: This license allows contractors to perform work only in the registered specialty area. They cannot hire subcontractors. Washington has 60 specialty contractor license classifications

To begin the licensing process, you must apply for a business license with the Washington State Department of Revenue and the Washington Secretary of State. 

Additional requirements include submitting the license application, showing proof of a Washington Continuous Contractor Surety Bond and general liability insurance coverage in the amount of $30,000, and providing workers’ compensation if you have employees. 

View the full Washington General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

West Virginia

In West Virginia, a General Contractor license is required to perform any residential construction work valued higher than $5,000, or commercial construction work valued over $25,000. Licensing is overseen by the West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board. 

West Virginia offers the following license classifications:

• General Building Contractor

• Multi-Family Contractor

• Remodeling and Repair Contractor

• Residential Contractor

To begin the process, choose your license classification and complete the license application. You need to pass both the Business and Law exam and a classification-specific exam. Additional requirements include registering your business with the West Virginia Secretary of State and obtaining general liability insurance. If you have employees, you also need workers’ compensation and unemployment compensation insurance. 

View the full West Virginia General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, general contractors need two licenses to obtain a building permit for one- and two-family homes. Contractors are required to hold a Dwelling Contractor Certification, and either the contractor or an employee must have a Dwelling Contractor Qualifier License.

The State of Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) oversees the state’s contractor license requirements. 

For a Dwelling Contractor Qualifier certification, you or an employee will need to complete 12 hours in an approved training course covering the state’s construction laws, Uniform Dwelling Code, and best construction business practices. 

The Wisconsin Dwelling Contractor certification allows you to legally perform residential contracting work that requires a building permit in any jurisdiction in the state. To begin the process, appoint a business representative who will apply for the license on behalf of the company. 

Dwelling Contractor applicants must submit proof of financial responsibility, in the form of either a bond or liability insurance. Surety bonds must be a minimum of $25,000, and liability insurance must show a policy of at least $250,000 per occurrence. You also need workers’ compensation insurance if you have any employees. 

View the full Wisconsin General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Wyoming

Wyoming leaves licensing requirements to local governments. However, most businesses operating in Wyoming must obtain a business license from the Attorney General’s Office.

Cheyenne offers several classifications of general contractor licenses, and each requires varying amounts of documented work experience. Licenses are issued by the Contractor Licensing Board, a division of the City of Cheyenne Department of Building Permitting & Licensing.

Cheyenne offers the following license classifications, which determine the scope of work allowed by the licensee.

• Class A

• Class B

• Class C

• Class D

• Class R

In Cheyenne, all contracting businesses must have at least one qualified supervisor who obtains the required work experience for the license classification and passes the ICC National Exam. Businesses must also obtain workers’ compensation and liability insurance. 

Casper also offers several classifications for general contractor licenses and strict experience requirements for each license. Licenses are issued by the City of Casper Department of Building and Inspections.

The city of Casper offers five classifications for general contractors.

• Class 1

• Class 2A

• Class 2B

• Class 3

• Class 4

To qualify, you must obtain the required amount of work experience for the license classification and submit a written affidavit verifying the minimum amount of work experience, and pass a licensing exam. You must obtain worker's compensation and liability insurance. 

View the full Wyoming General Contractor Licensing Requirements.

Check out our licensing guides for plumbers, electricians, and HVAC/refrigeration professionals, too.