Tennessee Contractor & Trade License Requirements
Tennessee requires statewide contractor licensing for any construction project valued at $25,000 or more, administered by the Board for Licensing Contractors (BLC). Electricians and plumbers have a two-tier system: a Limited License for projects under $25,000 and a full Contractor license for larger projects. HVAC and roofing fall under the general contractor classifications. Tennessee has extensive reciprocity agreements with neighboring states.
General Contractor
RequiredExperience3 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$364
Electrician
RequiredExperience3 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$107
Plumber
RequiredExperience1 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$132
HVAC Technician
RequiredExperience3 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$364
Roofing Contractor
RequiredExperience3 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$307
Reciprocity Agreements
Tennessee has reciprocity agreements with 9 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams.
alabama — Trade exam waiver for General, Electrical, Residential, HVAC. Must pass TN Business & Law exam.
arkansas — Trade exam waiver for Commercial Building only. Must pass TN Business & Law exam.
georgia — Trade exam waiver for Commercial and Electrical. Must pass TN Business & Law exam.
louisiana — Trade exam waiver. Must pass TN Business & Law exam.
mississippi — Trade exam waiver. Must pass TN Business & Law exam.
north carolina — Trade exam waiver for Residential, Commercial, Electrical. Must pass TN Business & Law exam.
south carolina — Trade exam waiver for General. Must pass TN Business & Law exam.
virginia — Trade exam waiver. Must pass TN Business & Law exam.
west virginia — Trade exam waiver. Must pass TN Business & Law exam.