How to verify a contractor in NC?
How to get a contractor license in NC?
What is the minimum working capital required for a general contractor in NC?
How long does it take to get a NC business license?
How to register a business in NC?
Is liability insurance required for a contractor?
Do you have to pay unemployment in NC?
See 2 more
Is the NC general contractor test hard?
It is a common misconception that since the builder exam is open book, it is not difficult to pass. In actuality the North Carolina construction license exam is more difficult to pass than similar closed book exams due to the fact that you have books available as a resource during the contractor exam.
How do I get a general contractor's license in NC?
To become licensed in North Carolina, a general contractor must pass a qualifying exam and submit an application and the required fee to the Board. Currently, the fees are $75 for a limited license, $100 for an intermediate license, and $125 for an unlimited license.
How much does it cost to get a general contractor's license in NC?
North Carolina contractors license requirements Application fees for a North Carolina contractors license are as follows: General contractors license – $75 for a limited, $100 for an intermediate, and $125 for an unlimited license classification.
What is the easiest contractors license to get?
RMO License One of the most common ways that individuals with no experience can have access to a contractor license is through an RMO or RME. RMO stands for Responsible Managing Officer.
How much work can you do without a contractor license in NC?
North Carolina requires that any general contractors working on contracts in excess of $30,000 obtain a license. Additionally, most subcontractors also need specialized trade licenses—though in some case they may need a general contractor's license as well.
Do I need a contractors license to build my own home in NC?
Current Law: North Carolina law currently requires any building construction or alteration project costing $30,000 or more to be superintended (supervised and managed) by a general contractor licensed in this state.
Is the NC general contractor test open book?
To pass the exam, you must get a score of 70% or higher. This exam is open book, so you may bring approved reference books with you in case you need them. Check out our list of approved reference books.
Can I be my own general contractor in North Carolina?
North Carolina grants owners an exemption to act as their own general contractor if they meet the following requirements. The property MUST be listed in your name. The property CANNOT be for rent, lease or sale for one year after the project is completed.
Does NC require contractor license?
If you want to be a General Contractor in North Carolina, it is important to get a General Contractor's License. According to NC § 87-1(a), you must be a licensed General Contractor to undertake construction on any project that has a total value of $30,000 or more.
How do I start my own contractor job?
How to Start a General Contractor Business in 9 StepsWeigh the Pros and Cons of Starting a Business.Draft a Business Plan.Get Licensed, Bonded, and Insured.Choose a Business Name.Incorporate Your Business.Open a Business Bank Account.Hire Subcontractors.Develop and Define Your Brand.More items...
How do I establish myself as a contractor?
Make sure you really qualify as an independent contractor. Choose a business name (and register it, if necessary). Get a tax registration certificate (and a vocational license, if required for your profession). Pay estimated taxes (advance payments of your income and self-employment taxes).
How do I become a contractor for dummies?
How To Get a Contractor's License in California in 6 StepsIdentify the license classification you need. ... Meet the basic licensing requirements. ... Fill out the licensing application. ... Complete a background check. ... Pass the California contractor licensing exam. ... Submit bonding & insurance documents.
Do general contractors need a license in North Carolina?
If you want to be a General Contractor in North Carolina, it is important to get a General Contractor's License. According to NC § 87-1(a), you must be a licensed General Contractor to undertake construction on any project that has a total value of $30,000 or more.
Can I be my own general contractor in North Carolina?
North Carolina grants owners an exemption to act as their own general contractor if they meet the following requirements. The property MUST be listed in your name. The property CANNOT be for rent, lease or sale for one year after the project is completed.
How long is the NC General Contractors exam?
Approved applicants must pass a qualifying examination for licensure with a minimum score of 70%. Approved candidates may take computer examinations administered at any PSI Examination Service Center. 90 questions, 3 hours and 20 minutes, partial open book, 63 correct (70%) to pass.
How many questions are on the NC General Contractors exam?
There are 90 questions on this examination and you are allowed 180 minutes. You must get a 70% to pass. How do I get my North Carolina building contractor license? First you must obtain a license application from the Licensing Board.
North Carolina Contractor License Search - County Office
Looking for contractor licenses & violations in North Carolina? Quickly search contractor licenses from 107 official databases.
License applicants – NC Licensing Board for General Contractors
An applicant shall identify an individual who has successfully passed an examination approved by the Board who, for purposes of this section, shall be known as the “qualifier” or the “qualifying party” of the applicant.
FAQ for Contractors – NC Licensing Board for General Contractors
The primary requirements for licensing include, completing the application, be at least 18 years of age, possess good moral character, meet the minimum financial requirement based on the limitation of license you are applying for, and successfully completing an examination based on the desired classification of license.
How to get a general contractor license in NC?
The NC general contractor license process includes the following steps: 1 Fill out an application. 2 Pass an exam. 3 Undergo a review of your finances. 4 Pass a background check.
What is general liability insurance?
General liability insurance for contractors protects your business from expenses related to common mistakes or accidents, including property damage and customer injury. You can add tools and equipment insurance to protect your gear for damage and theft.
What is the difference between license classification and license limits?
License limits dictate the size of projects you can take on, while license classifications determine what type of work you can do.
What is commercial auto insurance?
Commercial auto insurance protects your construction vehicles, drivers and equipment while driving for business purposes. In North Carolina, most insurance companies determine the cost of a policy based on driver experience, vehicle condition, route hazards and vehicle usage.
How long does it take to get a symlink?
The entire process can take 30 days, or more, especially if you need to study before taking the exam.
Does NC require workers comp insurance?
Workers’ Compensation insurance in North Carolina. Workers’ comp isn’t required for an NC general contractor license specifically, but state law requires this coverage for corporations, sole proprietorships, partnerships and limited liability companies with three or more employees.
HOW DO I APPLY FOR A GENERAL CONTRACTOR’S LICENSE IN NORTH CAROLINA?
[ NC § 87-10]. You must be at least 18 years old and possess good moral character as determined by the Board. Additionally, you must be able to provide evidence of financial responsibility based on the license limitation for which you are applying and submit the appropriate application fee for your license limitation. For a limited license, you must have a working capital of $17,000 (or total net worth of at least $80,000) and pay an application fee of $75 . For an intermediate license, you must have a working capital of $75,000 and pay a fee of $100, while those applying for an unlimited license must have a working capital of $150,000 and pay a fee of $125.
WHAT ARE THE LICENSE LIMITATIONS AND CLASSIFICATIONS?
There are three levels of license limitations: (1) limited, (2) intermediate, and (3) unlimited. [ 21 NCAC 12A .0204]. If you have never had a GC license, you will start with a limited license. A general contractor with a limited license will be allowed to work on projects with a total value of up to $500,000, a GC with an intermediate license can undertake projects of up to $1 million, and a GC with an unlimited license can undertake a project of any amount. Additionally, a general contractor is certified in one of four classifications. The Building Contractor classification covers all building construction and demolition activity, the Highway Contractor classification covers all highway construction activity, and the Public Utilities Contractor classification includes construction on water and wastewater systems. The fourth classification is for Specialty Contractors, and it includes a variety of specialized subtypes for operations such as masonry construction, railroad construction, and wind turbines. [ 21 NCAC 12A .0202]. It is important to note that you may qualify for more than one classification. If you meet the requirements for all of these—including passing the examinations for them—you can receive an Unclassified Classification.
What is a qualifier in a business license?
A qualifier is a responsible managing employee, owner, officer, or member of an LLC or partnership who successfully completes the examination required for licensing. Exams completed by qualifiers determine the classification (s) on the license. Qualifiers may qualify up to two licenses provided the qualifier is a managing employee, owner, officer or member of an LLC or partnership. Qualifiers are not licensees but are the holders of a qualifying credential that is required for licensure. Qualifying exams can be transferred between licenses however licenses themselves cannot be transferred. See NCAC Title 21 Chapter 12A .0205 (a).
How many licenses can a qualifier have?
Qualifiers may qualify up to two licenses provided the qualifier is a managing employee, owner, officer or member of an LLC or partnership. Qualifiers are not licensees but are the holders of a qualifying credential that is required for licensure.
What is the difference between a license and a classification?
Limitation determines the dollar size of the projects that can be undertaken with the license (see description of limitations). Classification determine s the type of work that can be performed using the license (see list of classifications and their definitions).
How to get a license in another state?
To apply for a license in another state you will need to contact the licensing board in that state for the process and requirements. The other boards typically require a license verification from the North Carolina Licensing Board. To receive a verification, you will need to fax, mail, or email ( [email protected]) a request that includes the name on the license, the license number, the state you are needing a verification for, and attach any forms required by that state. Once received it can take about 2 weeks to process before the verification is sent out.
What is the limit of a contractor's license?
The intermediate license allows contractors to undertake individual projects up to $1,000,000 each. The unlimited license has no dollar limit on the size of the projects that can be undertaken.
What is a NASCLA waiver?
NASCLA Waiver Form: This form is used to add someone who has completed a NASCLA exam and is not currently on a North Carolina License. Examination Waiver Form: This form is used to add an individual who completed an accepted examination from another state.
How often are board approvals sent out?
Lists of applicants for Board approval are typically sent out twice per month (0nce near the beginning of a month and once near the middle of the month). The lists for Board approval do not go out on set dates or specific days each month.
ATTENTION: License applications are now being handled online at NCCLiC.org
Anyone seeking to be licensed as a general contractor in North Carolina shall submit an application and meet the following requirements.
Examinations
Computerized-based examinations for the Licensing Board for General Contractors are administered by PSI Examination Services. PSI publishes a Candidate Information Bulletin.
Do I Need a North Carolina General Contractor License?
In the state of North Carolina, if the job costs more than $30,000, you need to have a general contractor license.
Is There a Deadline to Turn in my Application to be a Contractor In North Carolina?
Applications are accepted on all business days and take approximately 2-3 weeks to be processed.
How Long Do I Have to Complete the Licensing Process?
This letter is valid for 120 days from the date on the letter. You can take one exam within the 120-day time frame. If you are absent for your scheduled exam, it will count as an attempt.
How Do I Prepare for the Exam?
Carolina Seminars offers convenient, one-stop shopping to help you pass your North Carolina contractor exam. We have the best prices on all the exam reference materials you will need in our contractor bookstore. We offer the most effective and affordable contractors seminars available to obtain your contractor’s license. We offer both on-site and at-home seminars to help you prepare. Our students average a 98% pass rate on their first attempt! If you plan on taking either the North Carolina Building Contractor License Exam or the NASCLA Accredited Exam, contact us to help you get prepared!
How to apply for a general contractor license in NC?
You can get an application package by sending a personal check, money order or cashier’s check for $15 made payable to the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors, P. O. Box 17187, Raleigh, NC 27619. Applications may be purchased at the Board office for $13. The office is located at 5400 Creedmoor Road, Raleigh, NC 27612; office hours are from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please note that cash and credit cards are not accepted. Application packages may also be downloaded from the North Carolina Licensing Board website. An application form and instructions, information for all exams, state requirements and a copy of the Laws and Regulations Applicable to General Contracting in the State of North Carolina are included in the application package.
Where is the NC license office?
The office is located at 5400 Creedmoor Road, Raleigh, NC 27612 ; office hours are from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please note that cash and credit cards are not accepted. Application packages may also be downloaded from the North Carolina Licensing Board website. An application form and instructions, information for all exams, ...
What is the minimum working capital required for a limited license?
The Limited License is for projects under $500,000. You must have a minimum working capital of $17,000.
Do you need a license to file a mechanics lien in North Carolina?
North Carolina imposes no specific licensing requirement in order to file a valid mechanics lien.
How many types of general contractor licenses are there in North Carolina?
North Carolina has five different types of general contractor licenses for which you can apply. The following is a brief breakdown of what they are and what types of work qualify for which licenses.
How much can a contractor with intermediate license do?
Contractors holding intermediate licenses can act as general contractors for any single project with a value of up to $1,000,000. Again, this excludes the cost of the land and ancillary costs to improve the land.
What is a building contractor license?
The building contractor license covers all building construction and demolition. This includes commercial, industrial, institutional, and all residential building construction.
How much can a contractor's license cost?
Contractors holding limited licenses can act as general contractors for any single project with a value of up to $500,000, excluding the cost of the land and ancillary costs to improve the land.
What is considered a general contractor in North Carolina?
First, North Carolina considers anyone who takes a contract with another person to construct or make improvements to any building, highway, or public utility, or engage in earthmoving, to be a general contractor. And, if the general contractor takes a contract in excess of $30,000, that GC needs a license.
What are the three tiers of a trade license?
Both of these types of licenses have education and on-the-job training requirements. They also fall under three tiers: limited, intermediate, and unlimited. We’ll touch more on those more in another section ahead. Just note that the project value that each tier represents is different for these two trades. Their Boards’ respective websites are the best source of information.
How long does it take to get a journeyman electrician license in North Carolina?
Generally speaking, you can earn a journeyman license in about four years. Becoming a licensed electrical contractor takes more time and experience, depending on the electrical contractor classification. An unlimited electrical contractor, for example, requires at least five years of licensed electrical trade experience.
How much does it cost to become an electrician in North Carolina?
Tuition at most North Carolina community colleges and technical schools costs about $2,700 per year, plus the cost of books and other study materials, as well as exam and licensure fees. Potential electricians must also be prepared to pay exam fees and licensure fees. Electrical contractor license fees range from $94 to $190, depending on the license classification.
How many years of experience do you need to be an electrical contractor?
Potential licensees must work for a licensed electrical contractor and have four years of experience under the supervision of an electrical contractor. After passing the journeyman license exam, you will need to renew your journeyman license each.
How much does it cost to take the electrical contractor exam?
Those taking the electrical contractor exam for any licensure classification must pay a $90 exam fee. The exams contain 100 questions and you get six hours to complete the test. An examination information handbook is available for study purposes, which includes aspects of the North Carolina Administrative Code (NCAC).
What is the degree program at Durham Technical Community College?
Durham Technical Community College in Durham offers a construction electrician certificate program, as well as an associate degree program in electrical systems technology.
What skills do electricians need?
Electricians need keen eyesight and good hand-eye coordination, as well as proper time management and project management skills. They also need good customer service skills, be able to work independently, have good physical endurance, and use logical problem-solving techniques.
What is a trade license?
A trade license is proof of your experience and skill. Only certified electricians can: operate a business and advertise services, obtain commercial insurance, pull building permits, pass inspections, and bid on public and government projects. A license protects your company and customers.
What is exam prep?
In exam prep courses there will be a short quiz at the end of each lesson and there is also a longer practice test at the end of each course. These quizzes and tests will help you practice taking an exam and identify areas you may wish to study more.
What are license limitations based on?
License limitations are based off of the Working Capital* of the organization applying for licensure.
What is Career Plus tutoring?
We have a tutoring program designed to help you get one-on-one time with a licensed instructor. With this program you will get answers to questions you are still struggling with and advice on how to study for and pass your exams. Visit our Career Plus Services page to get more information.
What is practice test?
The practice tests are there to help you get used to the process of using your reference materials and finding the correct answers during an exam. If you don’t pass on the first try, take the time to note what sections of the material you need to review.
What is a limitation in a license?
The limitation determines the total dollar size of the projects that the licensee can undertake.
When do you renew a contractor's license?
Licenses must be renewed annually by December 31 for the following year, or the license expires. If a license is not renewed within sixty (60) days following expiration, then it becomes “invalid,” and the contractor becomes, in effect, unlicensed. Reexamination is required if a license is not renewed for four (4) years following expiration. After a lapse of four years, no renewal shall be effected and all requirements for a new license must be fulfilled, in accordance with G.S. 87-10.
Where is the NASCLA exam accepted?
The NASCLA exam is accepted in AL, AR, AZ, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, NV, OR, SC, TN, UT, US Virgin Islands, VA, & WV. For your convenience we have included links below to our FAQ pages for each of these states to help you find further information.
How to verify a contractor in NC?
To conduct an NC general contractor search, and to verify a contractor by license number or name, visit the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors license search database .
How to get a contractor license in NC?
Contractors in North Carolina (NC) will need to get their general contractors license through the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors. All regulations and requirements to become licensed will be handled by the board, including having financial statements audited, examinations, and paying all the associated fees. North Carolina contractors may also want to become bonded and insured at the time of licensing, so they can work across all municipalities.
What is the minimum working capital required for a general contractor in NC?
Must have a minimum working capital of $17,000, $80,000 net worth, or $350,000 surety bond.
How long does it take to get a NC business license?
Pay all associated application and licensing fees. Your NC general license application will take between 2-3 weeks to be reviewed and approved, provided you meet all requirements and include all necessary documents with your submission.
How to register a business in NC?
Business registration will be done through the NC Secretary of State. Here you can find more details on registering your business, maintaining registration, choosing a business structure, and more. Certain cities or counties may also require a certificate of insurance before starting work — you can find out if this applies to you from your local city planning department.
Is liability insurance required for a contractor?
It’s important to note that while contractor’s liability insurance isn’t required at the state level, it may be required at the city or county level. Additionally, bond insurance may be recommended at the municipal level before construction begins, to protect your project as well as your client.
Do you have to pay unemployment in NC?
Workers Compensation NC. Businesses with employees are required to pay unemployment insurance taxes under certain conditions . If your business is required to pay these taxes, you must register your business with the NC Industrial Commission.
