Kentucky Contractor & Trade License Requirements
Kentucky requires statewide licensing for electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors through the Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC). General contractors and roofing contractors do NOT have a state-level license requirement — licensing for those trades is handled at the city/county level. Louisville, Lexington, and other municipalities each set their own contractor licensing requirements.
General Contractor
Not requiredExperienceNone
ExamNo
Est. CostN/A
Electrician
RequiredExperience4 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$150
Plumber
RequiredExperience2 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$160
HVAC Technician
RequiredExperience2 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$180
Roofing Contractor
Not requiredExperienceNone
ExamNo
Est. CostN/A
Reciprocity Agreements
Kentucky has reciprocity agreements with 4 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams.
ohio — Electrical license reciprocity — Kentucky accepts equivalent Ohio electrical licenses. HVAC license reciprocity — Kentucky accepts equivalent Ohio Master HVAC contractor license for exam waiver.
louisiana — Electrical license reciprocity — equivalent Louisiana electrical licenses accepted.
virginia — Electrical license reciprocity — equivalent Virginia electrical licenses accepted.
west virginia — Electrical license reciprocity — equivalent West Virginia electrical licenses accepted.