General Contractor License in North Carolina

Everything you need to know about getting your general contractor license in North Carolina. A state license is required.

North Carolina Note: License required for projects valued at $40,000 or more. Three limitation levels: Limited, Intermediate, Unlimited.

How to Get Licensed: Step by Step

Meet Basic Requirements

Be at least 18 years old with a valid ID. Pass a background check. Submit fingerprints.

Complete Education

High school diploma or GED; construction management degree may substitute for 2 years experience

Gain 4 Years of Experience

Minimum 4 years of verified construction experience as a journeyman or foreman.

Pass the General Contractor Business and Law Exam

Obtain Insurance & Bonding

Secure General Liability, Workers Compensation insurance and a $13,800 surety bond.

Submit Application

Apply to the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors. Pay the application and license fees.

Requirements

Age Requirement	18+
Experience	4 years — Minimum 4 years of verified construction experience as a journeyman or foreman.
Education	High school diploma or GED; construction management degree may substitute for 2 years experience
Background Check	Required
Fingerprinting	Required

Fee Breakdown

Application Fee$140

License Fee$275

Exam Fee$110

Total Initial Cost$525

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)$185

Exam Information

Exam Name: General Contractor Business and Law Exam
Provider: PSI Services
Exam Fee: $110

NASCLA Accepted:North Carolina accepts the NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors.

Insurance & Bonding

Insurance Requirements

Required Types:

General Liability
Workers Compensation

Minimum Coverage:

$1,000,000 per occurrence / $2,000,000 aggregate

Surety Bond

A surety bond of $13,800 is required.

Continuing Education

Hours Required: 16 hours
Period: Every 2 years

License Reciprocity

North Carolina has reciprocity agreements with the following states. This typically means the trade exam may be waived, but you'll still need to meet other state requirements.

Alabama Florida Georgia Louisiana Mississippi South Carolina Tennessee

NASCLA Member:North Carolina accepts the NASCLA accredited exam, which can make it easier to get licensed in other NASCLA states.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to work as a general contractor in North Carolina?

Yes, North Carolina requires a state license for general contractors. The license is issued by the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors.

How much does a general contractor license cost in North Carolina?

The total initial cost is approximately $525, which includes the application fee ($140), license fee ($275), and exam fee ($110). Renewal costs $185 every 2 years.

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

You'll need 4 years of experience before you can apply. Once you meet all requirements, the application process typically takes 4-8 weeks.

Is there a general contractor exam in North Carolina?

Yes, you must pass the General Contractor Business and Law Exam, administered by PSI Services. The exam fee is $110.

Does North Carolina have reciprocity with other states for general contractor licenses?

Yes, North Carolina has reciprocity agreements with 7 other states. This may waive the trade exam, but you'll still need to meet other requirements.

Last verified: March 4, 2026

Information sourced from North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors. Always verify directly with the licensing authority for the most current requirements.

See something inaccurate?

Licensing requirements change frequently. If you notice outdated or incorrect information about North Carolina General Contractor License, please let us know.

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