General Contractor License in Tennessee

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

Tennessee Note: License required for projects valued at $25,000 or more. Licensed through the Board for Licensing Contractors.

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 $13,050 surety bond.

Submit Application

Apply to the Tennessee Board for Licensing 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$130

License Fee$260

Exam Fee$105

Total Initial Cost$495

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)$175

Exam Information

Exam Name: General Contractor Business and Law Exam
Provider: PSI Services
Exam Fee: $105

NASCLA Accepted:Tennessee 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 $13,050 is required.

Continuing Education

Hours Required: 16 hours
Period: Every 2 years

License Reciprocity

Tennessee 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 Alaska Louisiana Mississippi North Carolina South Carolina West Virginia

NASCLA Member:Tennessee 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 Tennessee?

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

How much does a general contractor license cost in Tennessee?

The total initial cost is approximately $495, which includes the application fee ($130), license fee ($260), and exam fee ($105). Renewal costs $175 every 2 years.

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

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 Tennessee?

Yes, you must pass the General Contractor Business and Law Exam, administered by PSI Services. The exam fee is $105.

Does Tennessee have reciprocity with other states for general contractor licenses?

Yes, Tennessee 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 Tennessee Board for Licensing 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 Tennessee General Contractor License, please let us know.

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