Nevada Contractor & Trade License Requirements
Nevada requires statewide contractor licensing through the Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB) for all construction trades. All contractors must pass a business and law (CMS) exam plus a trade-specific exam, post a surety bond, and maintain workers compensation insurance. The Board issues licenses across Class A (General Engineering), Class B (General Building), and Class C (Specialty) classifications. In 2026, Nevada launched a new B-7 restricted license to expand workforce access.
General Contractor
RequiredElectrician
RequiredPlumber
RequiredHVAC Technician
RequiredRoofing Contractor
RequiredReciprocity Agreements
Nevada has reciprocity agreements with 3 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams.
Nevada Licensing Overview
Nevada requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 contractor trades. The licensed trades — general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor — are regulated by the Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB). Across all licensed trades, initial costs range from $1,040 to $1,040, including application fees, exams, and license issuance. Nevada also participates in reciprocity agreements with 3 other states, which can streamline the process for out-of-state contractors.
Nevada Contractor License Cost Summary
| Trade | Application | Exam | License | Bond | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | $300 | $140 | $600 | $10,000 | $1,040 |
| Electrician | $300 | $140 | $600 | $10,000 | $1,040 |
| Plumber | $300 | $140 | $600 | $10,000 | $1,040 |
| HVAC Technician | $300 | $140 | $600 | $10,000 | $1,040 |
| Roofing Contractor | $300 | $140 | $600 | $10,000 | $1,040 |
Estimated totals include application, exam, license, and fingerprinting fees. Bond amounts are separate and typically paid as an annual premium.
Recommended exam prep
Formal prep pays for itself against a $100+ retake. Many states examine contractors on two separate papers — the trade exam and a business and law exam — so we list the course covering both first, with trade-specific depth after.
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- Workers compensation required for all contractors with employees. Sole proprietors without employees may file an exemption affidavit.
- Nevada has reciprocity agreements with 3 states, which may allow licensed contractors to skip certain exams.
- 2026 change: New B-7 restricted license launched — requires only 2 years experience, no trade exam, limited to projects up to $7,000
- NASCLA Accredited General Building Exam may be accepted in lieu of state trade exam
- EPA 608 certification also required for refrigerant handling
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Nevada require a contractor license?
Yes, Nevada requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 trades: general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor.
How much does a contractor license cost in Nevada?
The estimated initial cost is $1,040, including application, exam, and license fees.
Does Nevada have license reciprocity with other states?
Yes, Nevada has reciprocity agreements with 3 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams or have an expedited application process.
Do I need workers compensation insurance in Nevada?
Workers compensation required for all contractors with employees. Sole proprietors without employees may file an exemption affidavit.
Official Nevada Licensing Resources
- Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB) — for general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor