General Contractor License Requirements in Louisiana

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

Louisiana Note: License required for commercial projects over $50,000 and residential projects over $75,000.

How to Get Your General Contractor License in Louisiana

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 $12,900 surety bond.

Submit Application

Apply to the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. Pay the application and license fees.

Requirements Overview

Age Requirement	18+ years old
Experience	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 yrs) $170

Exam Information

Exam Name: General Contractor Business and Law Exam
Exam Provider: PSI Services
Exam Fee: $105
NASCLA Accepted: Yes — NASCLA accredited exam accepted

Insurance & Bonding

Insurance Requirements

General LiabilityWorkers Compensation

Minimum Coverage:$1,000,000 per occurrence / $2,000,000 aggregate

Surety Bond

A surety bond of $12,900 is required.

Continuing Education

Hours Required: 16 hours
Period: Every 2 years

Reciprocity & Portability

Louisiana has license reciprocity agreements with the following states. This may allow you to transfer or expedite your license.

Alabama Arizona Arkansas California Florida Georgia Mississippi Nevada North Carolina South Carolina Tennessee

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, Louisiana requires a state license for general contractors. The license is issued by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. Working without a proper license can result in fines and legal penalties.

How much does a general contractor license cost in Louisiana?

The total initial cost for a general contractor license in Louisiana is approximately $495, which includes the application fee ($130), license fee ($260), and exam fee ($105). Renewal costs $170 every 2 years. You will also need a $12,900 surety bond.

What exam do I need to pass for a general contractor license in Louisiana?

You must pass the General Contractor Business and Law Exam, administered by PSI Services. The exam fee is $105. Louisiana also accepts the NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors, which can streamline the licensing process if you hold a license in another NASCLA-participating state.

How much experience do I need to become a licensed general contractor in Louisiana?

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

Can I use my general contractor license from another state in Louisiana?

Louisiana has reciprocity or endorsement agreements with select states, which may allow you to waive the trade exam. However, you will typically still need to pass the state business and law exam, submit an application, and meet all other requirements. Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors for specific details about transferring your license.