North Carolina Contractor & Trade License Requirements
North Carolina requires statewide licensing for general contractors, roofers, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors. General contractors and roofers are licensed through the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors (NCLBGC) with tiered classifications based on project value. Electrical contractors are licensed through NCBEEC, while plumbers and HVAC contractors are licensed through the NC PHF Board.
General Contractor
RequiredExperienceNone
ExamYes
Est. Cost$154
Electrician
RequiredExperience4 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$125
Plumber
RequiredExperience2 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$275
HVAC Technician
RequiredExperience2 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$250
Roofing Contractor
RequiredExperienceNone
ExamYes
Est. Cost$154
Reciprocity Agreements
North Carolina has reciprocity agreements with 7 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams.
south carolina — Exam waiver; must pass NC Business & Law exam
tennessee — Exam waiver; must pass NC Business & Law exam
louisiana — Exam waiver; must pass NC Business & Law exam
georgia — Exam waiver; must pass NC Business & Law exam
mississippi — Exam waiver; must pass NC Business & Law exam
alabama — Exam waiver; must pass NC Business & Law exam
florida — Exam waiver; must pass NC Business & Law exam