North Carolina Contractor License Requirements
verifiedState-Level License RequiredNorth Carolina requires licensing for contractors on projects over $30,000. License classification limits (unlimited, intermediate, limited) determine maximum project value. Reciprocity with South Carolina.
account_balanceLicensing Board
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Board Name
North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors
language
Website
https://www.nclbgc.org/phone
Phone
(919) 571-4183
descriptionLicense Types
| Type | Threshold | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General Contractor (Building) | $30,000+ | Required for building projects over $30,000 |
| General Contractor (Highway) | $30,000+ | Highway and infrastructure projects over $30,000 |
| General Contractor (Public Utilities) | $30,000+ | Utility projects over $30,000 |
| Electrical | All work | Licensed through Board of Electrical Contractors |
| Plumbing/Mechanical | All work | Licensed through Board of Plumbing/Mechanical/Fuel Gas |
checklistRequirements
- check_circlePass trade exam (PSI)
- check_circleFinancial statement
- check_circleProof of insurance
- check_circleWorkers compensation
- check_circleExperience verification
paymentsFee Schedule
Application
$200
Annual Renewal
$100
Exam Fee
$150
event_repeatRenewal Period
Annual — January 1
shieldInsurance Minimums
General Liability
$100,000
Workers Compensation
Required if 3+ employees
swap_horizReciprocity
- arrow_forwardSouth Carolina (reciprocal agreement)
infoData sourced from state licensing board websites. Requirements change frequently — verify with your state board before applying. Last updated April 2026.