General Contractor License: How to Become a General Contractor in the U.S.

What can I do with a general contractor license?

A general contractor license lets you manage and carry out construction projects. General contractors manage and oversee construction projects from start to finish, including hiring and supervising subcontractors, getting permits, managing budgets, and ensuring safety standards.

A license is a way to make sure contractors are skilled and meet specific standards for how they work and helps keep things safe and professional in the construction industry.

General contractors can work on a wide range of projects, including residential, commercial, and public infrastructure. Regardless of the project type, general contractors are essential in delivering the project according to the client’s requirements and specifications.

Do I need a general contractor license?

Yes, in most states, you need a general contractor’s license to perform contracting work. While some states don’t require a license for general contractors, many states do have licensing requirements in place. 

Texas, for example, does not require general contractors to be licensed. Alaska, on the other hand, requires licensed general contractors to obtain more licenses as the value of their project increases. 

Jump to our state-specific contractor license requirements to learn more.

What can I do without a general contractor license?

Without your building contractor license, you can perform small contracting or handyman services. However, in most states, larger projects, more technical projects (such as major remodels to a home or adding a new story to a building), or projects valued above a certain rate (such as $2,000 in Idaho) require a license. 

It’s illegal to take on jobs outside of what your state license allows. If you do, you can face legal consequences and fines reaching thousands of dollars. 

READ MORE: Contractor vs Handyman: What can you legally do?

How long does it take to get a general contractor license?

Getting your general contractor license can vary greatly by state, but on average, it can take anywhere from two months to several years. 

This timeline depends on factors such as the amount of work experience required, the frequency of exams, and the time taken for application processing. Check with your state’s contractor licensing board for the most accurate information.

Jump to your state licensing requirements now.

How much does a general contractor license cost?

The cost of a general contractor license can vary widely depending on the state. On average, state licensing for general contractors ranges between $50 to $300. 

However, additional costs may be incurred for exams, application processing, and other requirements. 

Does a contractor license increase your earning potential?

Yes, getting a general contractor license can boost your earning potential in most states, as it lets you tackle larger and more complex projects. As a licensed contractor, you demonstrate credibility and professionalism, which attracts clients seeking high-quality work.

How to get a general contractor license: state-by-state

Becoming a licensed general contractor in the United States typically involves several key steps, although specific states may vary. 

Here is the general process to follow for a contractor license application:

1. Gain relevant work experience in the construction industry to develop skills and knowledge. 
2. Complete a background check 
3. Get liability insurance and an insurance bond. Having insurance provides protection against accidents, damages, risks, and liabilities that can happen during projects. It demonstrates professionalism, helps build trust with clients, and ensures compliance with legal rules. 
4. Pass the necessary licensing exams and apply for the right license(s) for your state. 
5. You may also need to set up a business, such as a sole proprietorship or LLC in order to be properly licensed and begin working as a general contractor. 

Each state has different building contractor requirements, so make sure you are familiar with your state by checking our full list of state links and information below:

Jump to your state:

Alabama	Alaska	Arizona	Arkansas	California
Colorado	Connecticut	Delaware	Florida	Georgia
Hawaii	Idaho	Illinois	Indiana	Iowa
Kansas	Kentucky	Louisiana	Maine	Maryland
Massachusetts	Michigan	Minnesota	Mississippi	Missouri
Montana	Nebraska	Nevada	New Hampshire	New Jersey
New Mexico	New York	North Carolina	North Dakota	Ohio
Oklahoma	Oregon	Pennsylvania	Rhode Island	South Carolina
South Dakota	Tennessee	Texas	Utah	Vermont
Virginia	Washington	West Virginia	Wisconsin	Wyoming

Alabama

To perform general contracting work valued above $50,000 in Alabama, you must get your Prime Contractor license from the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors. 

To do so, complete the application with three references, and provide financial statements from a certified accountant, proof of business registration, and documentation of your work experience. 

You must also pass a trade exam and a business and law exam, show proof of general liability insurance, and submit the application with the required fees at least 30 days before quarterly board meetings.

Ready to start? Read our complete guide to getting your General Contracting License in Alabama.

Alaska

To become a registered contractor in Alaska, you must have one of the licenses provided by the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development. 

To get your chosen license, complete any required technical coursework, and pass the exams associated with your license classification. 

Arizona

To perform general contracting work in Arizona, you must have one of the business license types provided by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. 

First, determine your license type and complete its application form. Next, pass the trade exam and business management exam, and provide proof of four years of experience and a bond. 

Arkansas

To perform general contracting work in Arkansas, you can apply for several types of contractor licenses from the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board. 

You start by completing the respective application forms available on the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board’s website and pay the fees. You must provide details about your work experience, financial information, and proof of insurance.

California

In California, the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) offers a variety of contractor license classifications. 

You must meet certain prerequisites for the determined license, submit an application, and pay the fees. including four years of journey-level experience in the trade being applied for, and passing an examination. You must also provide a fingerprint-based criminal background check, and show proof of workers’ compensation insurance or exemption. 

Ready to get licensed? See our guide to general contracting licenses in California.

Colorado

To perform general contracting work in Colorado, you must have a license from the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies – however, some cities may have different rules; make sure you are aware of all requirements in your area. 

Next, identify your preferred license type based on the scope of work you will undertake, and document your work experience relevant to the type of certificate, submit the relevant application, and pass the International Code Council (ICC) exam. 

Ready to start? Get step-by-step instructions on becoming a general contractor in Colorado.

Connecticut

To perform general contracting work in Connecticut, you must have a Home Improvement Contractor license from the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection. 

In order to get your license, register with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.

Delaware

No trade license is required for General Contractors in Delaware. To operate a general contracting business, you must have a license from the Delaware Division of Revenue.

Apply for a business license under the ‘Services’ section. This involves completing an application that includes providing business and personal information and paying the necessary fees. 

Florida

To perform general contracting work in Florida, you must have one of the contractor license options from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. 

Download and complete the appropriate application packet from the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation website. Ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements, which typically include proof of experience, insurance, and passing an exam. 

For complete steps to register, see how to get a general contractor license in Florida.

Georgia

To perform general contracting work in Georgia, you must have one of the licenses offered from the Georgia Board of Residential and General Contractors. 

Apply for your preferred license and pay the relevant fees to complete the process. Meet the requirements and verify that you have adequate experience, and provide the required documentation. 

For complete steps to apply, see our guide to Georgia’s General Contractor Licensing.

Hawaii

To perform general contracting work in Hawaii, you can get a state license to work on commercial, residential, or public works projects from the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. 

First, determine your chosen license classification and complete the application process. Provide proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance and then pass the exam.

Idaho

To perform general contracting work in Idaho, you must have a business license if you’re performing work valued above $2,000. You can apply for a license through the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses. 

The application process involves filling out a form, providing proof of liability insurance, and paying the necessary fees. No exams or experience requirements are mentioned for the general contractor license in Idaho.

Get the complete steps and most useful links in our Guide to General Contracting in Idaho.

Illinois

To perform general contracting work in Illinois, you must have a license from the city or county in which you will be working. 

Chicago, for example, offers general contracting licenses through the City of Chicago. To become a licensed general contractor in Chicago, you need to first submit a completed application form to the Department of Buildings. The application should include proof of insurance and a license fee. Upon approval, the city will issue the license which is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. 

Ready to start? Get our complete guide to general contractor licensing in Illinois.

Indiana

To perform general contracting work in Indiana, you must have a license from the city in which you will be working. 

Indianapolis, for example, offers general contracting licenses through the Department of Business and Neighborhood Services. Complete the appropriate application form based on the type of license you are seeking, pay the required license fees and prepare to pass the necessary exam(s) for your specific license category. 

Ready to start? Learn how to become a general contractor in Indiana.

Iowa

To perform general contracting work in Iowa, you must have a license from the Iowa Division of Labor if you earn at least $2,000 per year. 

In order to get a license, you must register with the Iowa Division of Labor.

Kansas

To perform general contracting work in Kansas, you must have a license from the city in which you will be working. 

Wichita, for example, offers general contracting licenses through the Kansas Department of Revenue. Register for a business license through the Kansas Secretary of State and appoint a qualified individual who must pass an exam. Present a certificate of good standing, provide a notarized certificate of insurance and workers’ compensation, and pay all relevant application and licensing fees.

Kentucky

To perform general contracting work in Kentucky, you must have a license from the city in which you will be working. 

Louisville, for example, offers general contracting licenses through the Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction. Apply through the Division of Construction Review and complete the license application. Additionally, contractors are required to have a valid license for their specific trade, such as electrical, plumbing, or HVAC. 

Louisiana

To perform general contracting work in Louisiana, you must have one of the licenses offered by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. 

Determine your preferred license type to meet the requirements, and pass the exams. Additionally, provide proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

Ready to start? Get our complete guide to becoming a general contractor in Louisiana.

Maine

To perform general contracting work in Maine, you’ll need to get a business license from the Government of Maine. 

In Maine, licenses are exclusively issued for contractors in plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and asbestos abatement fields. The Professional & Financial Regulation page on the State of Maine’s website provides a comprehensive list. 

Maryland

To perform general contracting work in Maryland, you must have a license from the Maryland Home Improvement Commission.

Obtain the appropriate license or registration for specific types of construction projects (e.g., home improvement, new home construction). Check the Maryland Home Improvement Commission site for specific requirements for your license type and follow the application requirements. 

Ready to get started? Get our step-by-step breakdown of how to become a general contractor in Maryland.

Massachusetts

To perform general contracting work in Massachusetts, you must register with the Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure. You must also obtain a construction supervisor license from the Massachusetts Office of Public Safety and Inspections.

First decide on the type of license you need – unrestricted, one- and two-family dwellings, or specialty. Ensure that you have a minimum of three years of experience in building construction or design to meet eligibility criteria, pass the exam and complete the application.

Get the complete guide to starting a contracting business in Massachusetts.

Michigan

To perform general contracting work in Michigan, you may apply for a Residential Builders license or a Maintenance & Alterations Contractors license with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

Complete a 60-hour pre-licensure course and pass the licensing exam administered by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). For commercial construction projects, reach out to local county building offices to obtain the necessary permits or licenses, ensuring full compliance with regional regulations.

Ready to start? Read our step-by-step guide to getting a contractor license in Michigan.

Minnesota

To perform general contracting work in Minnesota, you must have a Residential building contractors or Remodelers license from the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. General commercial contractors do not need a state license. 

Beyond the application process, you must pass a trade exam and a business and law exam administered by the Department of Labor and Industry for your Residential building contractors or Remodeler’s license.

Get the complete guide to becoming a general contractor in Minnesota.

Mississippi

To perform general contracting work in Mississippi on projects valued above $50,000, you must register with the Mississippi State Board of Contractors. Licenses are required for projects over $50,000.

In order to get your general commercial or residential contractors license, obtain a state license from the Mississippi State Board of Contractors by applying, passing the trade exam and a business and law exam, and providing proof of general liability insurance.

Missouri

To perform general contracting work in Missouri, you must have a license from the city in which you will be working. 

Kansas City, for example, offers general contracting licenses through the City Planning and Development Department – Permits Division. Start by submitting an application, passing required exams, providing proof of insurance, and meeting financial responsibility standards. Additionally, you must obtain specific licenses based on your trade or profession, such as general, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing. 

Montana

There are no specific licensing requirements for independent general contractors in Montana.

To perform general contracting work in Montana with employees, you must have a Construction Contractor business license from the Department of Labor and Industry. 

Nebraska

To perform construction, alterations, renovations, additions, installations, or repairs work in Nebraska, you’ll need to register as a Contractor with the Nebraska Department of Labor.

Nevada

To perform general contracting work in Nevada, you must have a Contractor license from the Nevada State Contractors Board.

The Nevada State Contractors Board offers an online application process for contractors’ licenses. The application process involves providing necessary information, submitting relevant documents, and meeting experience and skill requirements.

New Hampshire

To perform general contracting work in New Hampshire, you must have a business license from the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification.

To get your business license, first determine the type of license you need based on your scope of work (such as plumbing, HVAC, etc.), secure liability insurance, and workers’ compensation coverage, and check local city or county regulations for any additional licensing or permit requirements. 

New Jersey

To perform general contracting work in New Jersey, you must have a Home Building license or Home Improvement license from the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. 

Register for a Home Building License with the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs or a Home Improvement License with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. 

Ready to start? Bookmark our complete guide to earning your New Jersey Contractor License.

New Mexico

To perform general contracting work in New Mexico, you must have one of the licenses offered by the New Mexico Department of Regulation and Licensing. 

First, determine the classification of contractor license required for your work (likely General Building for general contracting work). Provide proof of four years of experience or substitute up to two years with education and pass an exam.

New York

To perform general contracting work in New York, you must have a license from the city in which you will be working. 

Submit an application and provide proof of general liability insurance, workers’ compensation, and disability insurance. You must also present a valid government-issued photo ID, have a registered construction superintendent, and pay the registration fee to the City of New York.

For more information, see our guide to general contracting licenses in New York.

North Carolina

To perform general contracting work in North Carolina, you must have a license from the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors. 

You must be at least 18 years old, pass a background check, and be legally registered to conduct business. Additionally, you must pass the National Accredited Building Examination and demonstrate financial capacity for projects worth $30,000 or more.

For complete details, see how to get a general contractor license in NC.

North Dakota

To perform general contracting work in North Dakota, you must have a license from the North Dakota Secretary of State on projects valued over $4,000. 

File a contractor’s license application with the Secretary of State, pay the required fee, and provide a surety bond based on the type of work or contract amount. You also need to provide proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage if you have employees.

Ohio

In Ohio, General Contracting Licenses are registered at the municipal (city) level, rather than by the state. Only certain trades, such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC, refrigeration, and hydronics are licensed by the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board.

Learn how to start working as a general contractor in Ohio, with specific instructions for the state’s largest cities.

Oklahoma

To perform general contracting work in Oklahoma, you must have a license from the city in which you will be working. 

Oklahoma City, for example, offers general contracting licenses through the City of Oklahoma City. Complete an application for your chosen license type, providing proof of general liability insurance, and presenting evidence of workers’ compensation insurance or an exemption affidavit. 

Oregon

To perform general contracting work in Oregon, you must have a business license from the Oregon Construction Contractors Board. 

To obtain a contractor’s license in Oregon, complete the required pre-license training and pass an exam in order to register your business. Next, obtain insurance and a surety bond to protect your business and clients. Finally, submit an application to the Oregon Construction Contractors Board to secure your license and begin operating legally.

Ready to begin? Apply to become a contractor in Oregon.

Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, you must register with the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office if you perform more than $5,000 worth of work on home improvement contracting projects per year.

Register with the Attorney General’s office, provide proof of insurance with minimum coverage of $50,000, and pay the registration fee. Contractors are also required to disclose any criminal convictions within the past 10 years.

Ready to start? Get step-by-step instructions to become a licensed contractor in Pennsylvania.

Rhode Island

To perform general contracting work in Rhode Island, you must have a license from the Rhode Island Contractors’ Registration and Licensing Board.

In order to get your license, complete five hours of pre-license education and show proof of liability insurance. Then you may complete the registration process.

South Carolina

To perform general contracting work in South Carolina, you must get your license from the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.
To get your license, show proof of two years of experience in the past five years, pass an exam and complete the application process.

South Dakota

To perform general contracting work in South Dakota, you must have a license from the city in which you will be working. 

Aberdeen, for example, offers general contracting licenses which can be applied for from the City of Aberdeen. You must apply for a license through the City Finance Office. This includes providing documentation and paying the fees.

Tennessee

To perform general contracting work in Tennessee, you must have a license from the Tennessee Department of Licensing and Insurance, Board for Licensing Contractors. 

In order to get your license, first show proof of experience, insurance, and financial statements. Then pass an exam and apply for your license. 

Ready to start your application? Get all the steps in our Tennessee contractor license guide.

Texas

In Texas, there is no state-level general contractor license requirement. Local licensing requirements may apply, as there are specific licenses for electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians. 

Utah

To perform general contracting work in Utah, you must have one of the licenses offered by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL). 

Complete the required pre-license education course and pass the appropriate licensing examination for your classification. Then submit a completed application to the DOPL, including your experience documentation and financial statements, and pay the fees.

Vermont

To perform general contracting work in Vermont, register with the Vermont Secretary of State as an individual or a business based on whether you are self-employed or have employees. 

Apply for your license through the Online Services System of the Office of Professional Regulation. The process involves providing necessary information, meeting specific requirements, and paying the fees.

Virginia

To perform general contracting work in Virginia, you must have a license from the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Board for Contractors. 

Show proof of experience and education and pass an exam to get your Contracting license. 

Washington

To perform general contracting work in Washington, you must register as a business with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). 

Register with the L&I, provide proof of insurance and a bond, and pay a registration fee. Additionally, you must have a Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number and an industrial insurance account if you have employees.

Learn more about contractor licensing requirements and steps in the state of Washington.

West Virginia

In West Virginia, if you wish to perform projects valued at $2,500 or more, you must get your contractor license. 

Getting your contractor license involves completing an application, passing exams, including the WV Business & Law exam, and meeting specific business registration requirements.

Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, while there isn’t a specific general contractor license, contractors performing similar duties are required to meet certain credentials. 

These include applying for a Dwelling Contractor Certification, paying specific fees, and passing the state’s contractors exam. There’s no requirement for continuing education to renew the license, but there is an annual renewal fee. 

Ready to start? Learn how to become a working general contractor in Wisconsin.

Wyoming

To perform general contracting work in Wyoming, you must have a business license from the Wyoming Secretary of State. 

The process involves choosing a business entity type, completing the necessary documentation, and paying the fees.