Solar Installer License Requirements in North Carolina

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

North Carolina Note: Electrical contractor license required for solar installations.

How to Get Your Solar Installer License in North Carolina

Meet Basic Requirements

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

Complete Education

High school diploma or GED; NABCEP PV Installation Professional certification preferred

Gain 2 Years of Experience

Minimum 2 years of solar PV installation experience or NABCEP certification.

Pass the Solar Contractor Exam

Obtain Insurance & Bonding

Secure General Liability, Workers Compensation insurance and a $9,200 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 2 years of solar PV installation experience or NABCEP certification.
Education	High school diploma or GED; NABCEP PV Installation Professional certification preferred
Background Check	Required

Fee Breakdown

Application Fee $85

License Fee $160

Exam Fee $185

Total Initial Cost $430

Renewal Fee (every 2 yrs) $115

Exam Information

Exam Name: Solar Contractor Exam
Exam Provider: NABCEP
Exam Fee: $185

Insurance & Bonding

Insurance Requirements

General LiabilityWorkers Compensation

Minimum Coverage:$500,000 per occurrence / $1,000,000 aggregate

Surety Bond

A surety bond of $9,200 is required.

Continuing Education

Hours Required: 12 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 solar installer in North Carolina?

Yes, North Carolina requires a state license for solar installers. 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 solar installer license cost in North Carolina?

The total initial cost for a solar installer license in North Carolina is approximately $430, which includes the application fee ($85), license fee ($160), and exam fee ($185). Renewal costs $115 every 2 years. You will also need a $9,200 surety bond.

What exam do I need to pass for a solar installer license in North Carolina?

You must pass the Solar Contractor Exam, administered by NABCEP. The exam fee is $185.

How much experience do I need to become a licensed solar installer in North Carolina?

Minimum 2 years of solar PV installation experience or NABCEP certification.

Can I use my solar installer 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.