Contractor License Requirements: A State-by-State Guide for 2026
Which states require a contractor license? What exams, insurance, and experience do you need? Complete 50-state overview.
Do You Need a Contractor License?
It depends on your state. 29 states require some form of state-level contractor license, while 21 states only require local licensing or registration.
States That Require a State-Level License
California, Florida, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Virginia, North Carolina, and many more require contractors to obtain a state-issued license before performing work. Requirements typically include:
States Without State-Level Licensing
Texas, New York, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and others do not require a state-level general contractor license. However, most major cities within these states require local registration or licensing.
Important: Even in states without state licensing, you still need:
Cost to Get Licensed
The total startup cost for getting properly licensed and insured as a contractor ranges from $2,500 to $8,000, including:
View detailed requirements for your state
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