State Contractor Licensing

Contractor licensing requirements will vary as each state has different rules and requirements.  Certain project types may require a license in some states while not in others and the project value in some states may require licensing.  Licenses typically fall into two types, either a General Contractors License or a Subcontractor License.  

A general contractors license is a requirement in many states for anyone taking the prime contract on a construction project. In some cases, it depends on the project's value, and this threshold determines whether or not a general contractor needs a license.

Requirements for subcontractors licenses vary quite a bit for each state.  Some states require almost all subcontractors to maintain a license to operate while others leave licensing requirements up to local municipalities.  Common subcontractor licenses include Electrical, HVAC, Mold, Asbestos, and Hazardous Waste.

Often times the terms registered and certified are used interchangeably although these do not always carry the same meaning in each state.  Licensing is typically much more in-depth and required an application process to ensure you meet certain requirements and are capable of performing the applicable work.  Registration is typically completing a form and submitting it to the state office or local municipality.  Certification is commonly required for trades involving environmental, health or safety concerns.