General Contractor License Requirements in Georgia
| Licensing Authority | State Licensing Board for Residential and Commercial General Contractors (SLBRCGC) |
| License Type | Commercial General Contractor (Limited or Unlimited) |
| Experience Required | 4 years of combined education and practical experience in the construction industry, with at least 2 years in general contracting and 1 year in a specialized role. Alternatively, a bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or related field plus 1 year of related work experience. Applicants must be at least 21 years old. |
| Education Substitute | A 4-year degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or related field can substitute for up to 3 years of the experience requirement (1 year hands-on still required) |
| Exam Required | Yes — NASCLA Commercial General Building Exam + Georgia Business and Law Exam |
| Bond Required | Yes — $25,000 |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | Not required |
| Processing Time | 4-8 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $200 |
| Exam Fee | $210 |
| Initial License Fee | $280 |
| Est. Initial Total | $690 |
Renewal: $100 every 2 years (even-numbered years, by June 30)
Exam Requirements
NASCLA Commercial General Building Exam
Georgia Business and Law Exam
Exam provider: PSI Exams
License Tiers
Residential Basic Contractor
4 years combined education and experience; limited to single-family dwellings and duplexes
Exam: Required
Residential Light Commercial Contractor
4 years combined education and experience; residential and light commercial up to 4 stories
Exam: Required
General Contractor - Limited Tier
4 years combined education and experience; projects up to $5 million
Exam: Required
General Contractor - Unlimited
4 years combined education and experience; no project value limit
Exam: Required
License Reciprocity
This state has reciprocity agreements with 3 states. View full reciprocity details — You may be able to skip the trade exam if you hold a valid license from one of these states.
Notes
- Paper applications no longer accepted -- must use GOALS online portal
- Applicants must be at least 21 years old (not 18)
- License threshold: required for any work exceeding $2,500
- 2026 renewal dates: opens April 6, expires June 30, late period July 1-31
- Retake policy: 30-day waiting period after a failed exam
- NASCLA-accredited exam accepted for commercial general contractor tier
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a general contractor license in Georgia?
Yes, Georgia requires a statewide general contractor license through the State Licensing Board for Residential and Commercial General Contractors.
How much does a general contractor license cost in Georgia?
The estimated initial cost is $690, including application, exam, and license fees. A $25,000 surety bond is also required.
What experience do I need for a general contractor license in Georgia?
4 years of combined education and practical experience in the construction industry, with at least 2 years in general contracting and 1 year in a specialized role. Alternatively, a bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or related field plus 1 year of related work experience. Applicants must be at least 21 years old. Education substitute: A 4-year degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or related field can substitute for up to 3 years of the experience requirement (1 year hands-on still required)
What exams are required for a general contractor license in Georgia?
You must pass the NASCLA Commercial General Building Exam and Georgia Business and Law Exam exams. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by PSI Exams.
Do I need a bond for a general contractor license in Georgia?
Yes, a $25,000 surety bond is required. $25,000 surety bond required for all residential and general contractor licenses. Typical annual premium is 1-3% of bond amount ($250-$750/year).
Does Georgia have general contractor license reciprocity?
Yes, Georgia has reciprocity agreements with 3 states that may apply to general contractors. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams or have an expedited application process.
How long does it take to get a general contractor license in Georgia?
Processing time is typically 4-8 weeks after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for general contractors in Georgia?
No, Georgia does not currently require continuing education for general contractor license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: SLBRCGC