Alabama Contractor & Trade License Requirements
Alabama requires statewide licensing for general contractors (projects $100,000+), electricians, plumbers, HVAC contractors, and residential roofers (projects $2,500+). Each trade is regulated by a separate state board. Alabama has reciprocity agreements with several southeastern states, particularly for general contractors and electricians. The state uses a classification-based system for general contractors with monetary limits tied to net worth or working capital.
General Contractor
RequiredExperience4 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$574
Electrician
RequiredExperience4 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$150
Plumber
RequiredExperience2 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$235
HVAC Technician
RequiredExperience2 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$340
Roofing Contractor
RequiredExperience1 years
ExamNo
Est. Cost$250
Reciprocity Agreements
Alabama has reciprocity agreements with 10 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams.
arkansas — Trade exam waiver for comparable classification. Must pass AL Business & Law exam. License must be held 1+ year with no disciplinary actions. 30-day processing.
mississippi — Trade exam waiver for comparable classification. Must pass AL Business & Law exam. License must be held 1+ year with no disciplinary actions. 30-day processing.
louisiana — Trade exam waiver for comparable classification. Must pass AL Business & Law exam. License must be held 1+ year with no disciplinary actions. 30-day processing.
tennessee — Trade exam waiver for comparable classification. Must pass AL Business & Law exam. License must be held 1+ year with no disciplinary actions. 30-day processing.
north carolina — Trade exam waiver for comparable classification. Must pass AL Business & Law exam. License must be held 1+ year with no disciplinary actions. 30-day processing.
south carolina — Electrical contractor trade exam waiver. Must pass AL Business & Law exam. Current valid license required.
virginia — Electrical contractor trade exam waiver. Must pass AL Business & Law exam. Current valid license required.
ohio — Electrical contractor trade exam waiver. Must pass AL Business & Law exam. Current valid license required.
georgia — Electrical contractor reciprocity TERMINATES May 25, 2026. Trade exam waiver until that date. Must pass AL Business & Law exam.
west virginia — HVAC contractor reciprocity. No waiting period. Must apply through HACR.