Contractor license requirements by state
Do you need a state license, which one, and what it takes to get it. Every page is read from the state's own licensing board, dated, and says so plainly when the board's pages leave a question open.
Pick your trade
45 state guidesHVAC license by stateHeating, cooling and refrigeration work. Some states license it through a mechanical board, some leave it to cities.48 state guidesPlumbing license by stateWater, drain and gas piping. Many states license plumbers through a state board, often in apprentice, journeyman and master steps.50 state guidesElectrical license by stateWiring, panels and service work. Many states license electricians at the state level, often with journeyman and master levels.45 state guidesRoofing license by stateRoof replacement and repair. Some states have a roofing license of their own, others fold it into the contractor license or leave it to cities.48 state guidesGeneral Contractor license by stateBuilding, remodeling and home improvement. The rules swing from a full state exam to a city permit desk.47 state guidesHandyman license by stateSmall repairs and odd jobs. Most states draw a dollar line, and above it you need a contractor license.
How these pages are made
Each state page comes from the state board, the statute or the board's fee schedule, and lists those pages at the bottom. Where the official pages do not answer a question, the page says to check with the board instead of guessing. A state page goes up only once the basic answer, state license or not, is confirmed on an official page.