General Contractor License Requirements 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 Your General Contractor License in North Carolina

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 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 $140

License Fee $275

Exam Fee $110

Total Initial Cost $525

Renewal Fee (every 2 yrs) $185

Exam Information

Exam Name: General Contractor Business and Law Exam
Exam Provider: PSI Services
Exam Fee: $110
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 $13,800 is required.

Continuing Education

Hours Required: 16 hours
Period: Every 2 years

Reciprocity & Portability

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

Alabama Florida Georgia Louisiana Mississippi South Carolina Tennessee

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. Working without a proper license can result in fines and legal penalties.

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

The total initial cost for a general contractor license in North Carolina is approximately $525, which includes the application fee ($140), license fee ($275), and exam fee ($110). Renewal costs $185 every 2 years. You will also need a $13,800 surety bond.

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

You must pass the General Contractor Business and Law Exam, administered by PSI Services. The exam fee is $110. North Carolina 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 North Carolina?

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

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

North Carolina 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 North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors for specific details about transferring your license.