> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.cslid.nascla.memorang.app/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Kentucky

> Contractor licensing thresholds, regulator routing, requirements, reciprocity, and license types for Kentucky's centralized trade-licensing model.

Kentucky regulates construction through trade-specific licensing under a single department — the Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC). There is no statewide general contractor license; instead, individual trades like plumbing, HVAC, electrical, elevator, boiler, fire protection, LP gas, underground storage tanks, and manufactured home installation each require separate credentials through different DHBC divisions.

<Warning>
  Always verify statutes, fees, and application details with the live regulator before making bidding, licensing, or legal decisions.
</Warning>

## At a glance

The fastest way to orient yourself in Kentucky is to know that licensing is trade-based, not dollar-based — every regulated trade requires a state credential regardless of contract value.

| Signal                              | Value                                                           |
| ----------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Licensing model                     | Trade-specific — no statewide general contractor license        |
| Dollar threshold                    | None — licensing is required by trade, not by contract value    |
| Central regulatory department       | Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC)        |
| Number of regulated trade divisions | 7 divisions covering 9+ trade categories                        |
| Reciprocity model                   | Limited — Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia for specific trades |
| Renewal cycle                       | Annual, tied to licensee's birth month                          |

## Frequently asked questions

Pick the tab that matches your situation. Each FAQ gives a direct answer and points you to the full detail below.

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Contractors" icon="hard-hat">
    <AccordionGroup>
      <Accordion title="Does Kentucky have a general contractor license?">
        No. Kentucky does not have a statewide general contractor license. Only specific trades are regulated at the state level: plumbing, HVAC, electrical, elevator, boiler, fire protection, LP gas, underground storage tanks, and manufactured home installation. General contracting is not regulated by the state. See [Construction work regulated](#construction-work-regulated).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="Is there a dollar threshold that triggers licensing?">
        No. Kentucky licenses by trade, not by contract value. If the work involves a regulated trade, a credential is required from DHBC regardless of the dollar amount. There is no minimum contract value trigger. See [Construction work regulated](#construction-work-regulated).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="Where do I go to get licensed in Kentucky?">
        All trade licensing runs through the Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC) at 500 Mero Street, Frankfort, KY 40601. Each trade has its own division with separate phone numbers and application forms: Division of Plumbing, Division of HVAC, Division of Electrical, Boiler Inspection Section, Fire Protection Systems, Division of Fire Prevention, and Elevator Section. See [Who regulates construction](#who-regulates-construction).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How much does it cost to get licensed?">
        Costs vary by trade. Plumbing journeyman: **\$60** license, **\$50** exam. Plumbing master: **\$250** license, **\$150** exam. HVAC journeyman: **\$50** renewal, **\$80** exam. HVAC master: **\$250** renewal, **\$80** exam. Electrical contractor: **\$200**, **\$60** exam. Fire protection sprinkler contractor: **\$250**. Elevator contractor: **\$240**. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What are the insurance requirements?">
        Insurance varies by trade. Plumbing master: **\$250,000** general liability. HVAC master: **\$500,000** general liability plus **\$300,000** property damage. Electrical contractor: **\$500,000** general liability. Fire protection: **\$500,000** per person, **\$1,000,000** per occurrence. Elevator contractor: **\$1,000,000** general liability plus **\$500,000** property damage. Manufactured home installer: **\$250,000** general liability. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="Can I use my out-of-state license in Kentucky?">
        Reciprocity is limited. Ohio has HVAC and electrical reciprocity. Virginia and West Virginia have electrical reciprocity. For other trades, Kentucky may recognize credentials case-by-case if the issuing state's standards are substantially equal. Manufactured home installers with an active HUD license or license from a reciprocal state are exempt from Kentucky exam and experience requirements. See [Reciprocal agreements](#reciprocal-agreements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What exams are required?">
        Each trade has its own exam. Plumbing journeyman requires 75% minimum on each portion. Plumbing master requires 80%. HVAC requires a department-prescribed exam. Electrical requires separate journeyman and master exams. Elevator mechanic requires 70% minimum. Boiler requires a department-prepared exam. UST requires a department exam. Manufactured home installers must pass a department-administered exam. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What experience is needed for electrical licensing?">
        Electricians (journeyman) need 8,000 hours of verifiable experience. Master electricians need 16,000 hours. An approved apprenticeship of 576 hours can substitute for 4,000 hours, an associate degree for 4,000–6,000 hours, and 2 years of teaching for 4,000 hours. See [Electrical](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What about fire protection or sprinkler work?">
        Fire protection sprinkler contractors must hold or employ a certificate holder with NICET Level III or IV certification. Insurance minimums are substantial: **\$500,000** per person, **\$1,000,000** per occurrence, **\$1,000,000** property damage. Contractor license fee is **\$250** initial and renewal. See [Fire Protection Sprinkler Contractors](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="When do licenses expire?">
        All Kentucky trade licenses renew annually and expire at the end of the licensee's birth month. Elevator mechanics who fail to renew within 60 days have their license terminated. Inactive status is available for most trades at reduced fees. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What about LP gas contractors?">
        LP gas requires proof of financial responsibility and licensing. Five classes cover different scopes: Class A (selling, delivering, filling — **\$200** for 2 years), Class B (selling containers under 100 lb — **\$100**), Class C (filling DOT containers — **\$100**), Class D (storing for resale — **\$50**), Class E (installing and connecting — **\$50**). Insurance ranges from **\$100,000** to **\$1,000,000**. See [LP Gas](#requirements).
      </Accordion>
    </AccordionGroup>
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Regulators" icon="shield-check">
    <AccordionGroup>
      <Accordion title="How does Kentucky's licensing model compare to general-contractor states?">
        Kentucky is a trade-only licensing state — there is no general contractor license. This contrasts sharply with states like Florida, Louisiana, or Alabama that license general contractors. Compare Kentucky to other trade-only states, not to general contractor board states. See [Construction work regulated](#construction-work-regulated).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How is DHBC structured?">
        All 7 regulatory divisions are housed within one department (DHBC) at 500 Mero Street, Frankfort. Each division has its own phone number, application forms, exam schedule, and fee structure. The divisions cover plumbing, HVAC, electrical, boiler, fire protection, fire prevention (LP gas and UST), and elevators. See [Who regulates construction](#who-regulates-construction).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What types of construction work are regulated at the state vs. local level?">
        Kentucky regulates plumbing, HVAC, electrical, elevator, boiler, fire protection sprinkler, LP gas, underground petroleum storage tanks, and manufactured home installation at the state level. General contracting is not regulated at the state level and may be subject to local requirements.
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How does the single-department model affect regulatory complexity?">
        While all divisions share the same parent department and physical address, each has its own requirements, exams, fees, insurance minimums, and renewal timing. The single-department structure simplifies routing (one address) but does not simplify compliance (each trade is distinct).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What are the fees across trades?">
        Fees vary significantly. Plumbing master: **\$250** license + **\$150** exam. Electrical contractor: **\$200** + **\$60** exam. HVAC master: **\$250** + **\$80** exam. Fire protection sprinkler: **\$250**. Elevator contractor: **\$240**. UST contractor: **\$300** + **\$50** exam. LP gas ranges from **\$50** to **\$200** for 2-year licenses. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What license classifications does Kentucky use?">
        Kentucky issues credentials across 9 categories: plumbing (journeyman, master), HVAC (journeyman, master), electrical (contractor, master, journeyman), boiler contractor, fire protection (sprinkler, chemical suppression, range hood), LP gas (Classes A–E), UST (installer/remover, remover only, liner only), elevator (contractor, mechanic, accessibility/residential mechanic, apprentice), and manufactured home installer. See [Types of licenses](#types-of-licenses).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How does reciprocity work in Kentucky?">
        Reciprocity is limited and trade-specific. Ohio has HVAC and electrical reciprocity. Virginia and West Virginia have electrical only. For all other trades, Kentucky may recognize credentials case-by-case if standards are substantially equal. There is no statewide reciprocity arrangement. See [Reciprocal agreements](#reciprocal-agreements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What exam requirements exist across divisions?">
        Exam passing scores vary: plumbing journeyman 75%, plumbing master 80%, elevator mechanic 70%. Other trades require department-prescribed exams without published minimum scores. Fire protection requires NICET Level III or IV certification. Manufactured home installers must complete a 15-hour course before the exam. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What are the renewal cycles?">
        All licenses renew annually, tied to the licensee's birth month. LP gas licenses are the exception — they are issued for 2-year terms. Elevator mechanics who fail to renew within 60 days have their license terminated. Most trades offer inactive status at reduced fees.
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How does the insurance landscape compare across trades?">
        Insurance requirements range widely: **\$250,000** for plumbing and manufactured homes, **\$500,000** for HVAC and electrical, up to **\$1,000,000** for elevator and fire protection. LP gas ranges from **\$100,000** (Class D) to **\$1,000,000** (Class A). UST requires **\$500,000** general liability plus **\$25,000** pollution liability. This variation is important for cross-trade analysis.
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How does Kentucky compare to neighboring states?">
        Kentucky's trade-only model (no general contractor license) distinguishes it from neighbors like Tennessee and Virginia that license general contractors. The single-department structure (all trades under DHBC) is more centralized than Alabama's 8-board model or Arkansas's 10-agency model. See the [South region guide](/docs/jurisdictions/regions/south).
      </Accordion>
    </AccordionGroup>
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

## Start with your goal

Pick the card that matches what you need right now. Each one links to the relevant section on this page.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Is licensure triggered?" icon="search" href="#construction-work-regulated">
    Start with whether your trade requires state-level licensing in Kentucky.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Find the right regulator" icon="building" href="#who-regulates-construction">
    Use the regulator directory to route your question to the correct DHBC division.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Application and renewal details" icon="clipboard-list" href="#requirements">
    Exams, fees, experience, insurance, continuing education, and renewal cycles for each trade.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Reciprocity direction" icon="arrow-left-right" href="#reciprocal-agreements">
    Find out which DHBC divisions recognize out-of-state credentials.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Special considerations

Different roles need different things from a Kentucky page. Use the tab that matches your situation to see what matters most before you read the full detail below.

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Contractors" icon="hard-hat">
    <Tip>
      Start with your trade. In Kentucky, there is no general contractor license — the question is which trade credential you need from DHBC.
    </Tip>

    * Kentucky does not have a statewide general contractor license.
    * Plumbing, HVAC, electrical, elevator, boiler, fire protection, LP gas, underground storage tank, and manufactured home installation all require separate state-level credentials.
    * There are no dollar thresholds — if the trade is regulated, licensing is required regardless of contract value.
    * All licenses renew annually and expire at the end of the licensee's birth month.
    * Insurance requirements vary by trade: general liability ranges from **\$250,000** (plumbing, manufactured homes) to **\$1,000,000** (elevator, fire protection).
    * Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia have reciprocity for electrical licensing; Ohio also has HVAC reciprocity.
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Regulators" icon="shield-check">
    <Info>
      Kentucky is best understood as a single-department model — all trade licensing runs through DHBC, but each trade has its own division with separate requirements, exams, and fee schedules.
    </Info>

    * All 7 regulatory divisions are housed within one department (DHBC) at 500 Mero Street, Frankfort.
    * Reciprocity is limited to specific trades with Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia.
    * Case-by-case recognition is available for out-of-state credentials with substantially equal standards.
    * There is no general contractor licensing — compare Kentucky to other trade-only states, not to states with general contractor boards.
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

## Readiness checklist

Four things you need to confirm before you can treat Kentucky as "ready" for a bid or an application. If any of these are unclear, you are not ready yet.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Identify the regulated trade" icon="tag">
    Determine whether the work involves plumbing, HVAC, electrical, boiler, fire protection, LP gas, underground storage tanks, elevators, or manufactured home installation.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Confirm there is no dollar threshold" icon="receipt">
    Kentucky licenses by trade, not by contract value. If the trade is regulated, a credential is required regardless of the dollar amount.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Route to the correct DHBC division" icon="building">
    All divisions are within DHBC at 500 Mero Street, Frankfort, but each has its own phone number, application forms, and exam schedule.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Confirm the requirement set" icon="clipboard-check">
    Confirm exams, experience hours, insurance minimums, fees, continuing education, and renewal timing for the specific trade before filing.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Check>
  If you can identify the trade, the correct DHBC division, and the full requirement set (exam, experience, insurance, fees, renewal), you have the minimum package needed for a Kentucky readiness check.
</Check>

## Navigation

Use these links to jump to related cross-state comparisons and workflows.

* [New state evaluation](/docs/workflows/new-state-evaluation) if you are screening Kentucky for the first time.
* [Multi-state bid readiness](/docs/workflows/multi-state-bid-readiness) if you need to compare Kentucky with nearby jurisdictions.
* [Licensing thresholds](/docs/compare/licensing-thresholds) or [prequalification patterns](/docs/compare/prequalification) for cross-state context.

## Construction work regulated

Kentucky requires state-level licensing for specific trades, not based on contract value. If the work involves a regulated trade, a credential is required from DHBC regardless of the dollar amount.

| Work lane                          | What triggers regulation                            |
| ---------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------- |
| Plumbing                           | All plumbing contractors and tradesmen              |
| HVAC                               | All HVAC contractors and tradesmen                  |
| Electrical                         | All electrical contractors and tradesmen            |
| Elevator                           | All elevator contractors and tradesmen              |
| Boiler                             | All boiler installation, erection, or repair        |
| Fire protection sprinkler          | All fire protection sprinkler contractors           |
| LP gas                             | All LP gas retailers and contractors                |
| Underground petroleum storage tank | All UPST contractors                                |
| Manufactured home installation     | All manufactured home and mobile home installations |

<Note>
  Kentucky does not have a statewide general contractor license. General contracting is not regulated at the state level — only the specific trades listed above require DHBC credentials.
</Note>

## Common determination scenarios

If you are trying to figure out where to start, expand the scenario that is closest to your situation.

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Plumbing, HVAC, or electrical project" icon="tool">
    These three trades are the most commonly licensed through DHBC. Each has its own division, exam, experience requirements, and fee schedule. Start by identifying the specific trade, then route to the correct division for application forms.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Elevator installation or maintenance" icon="building">
    Elevator mechanics need 36 months of work experience (or equivalent) and must pass an exam with at least 70%. Elevator contractors must employ at least one licensed mechanic and show 3 years of experience. Both require annual renewal with 8 hours of continuing education.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Fire protection or sprinkler system" icon="flame">
    Fire protection sprinkler contractors must hold or employ a certificate holder. NICET Level III or IV certification is required for sprinkler system certificates of competency. Insurance minimums are substantial: **\$500,000** per person, **\$1,000,000** per occurrence.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Out-of-state contractor with reciprocal credentials" icon="arrow-left-right">
    Kentucky has reciprocal agreements with Ohio for HVAC and electrical licensing, and with Virginia and West Virginia for electrical licensing. For other trades, Kentucky may recognize credentials case-by-case if the issuing state's standards are substantially equal.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Manufactured home installation" icon="building-warehouse">
    All manufactured home and mobile home installations require a certified installer. Applicants must complete a 15-hour approved course, pass the exam, and carry general liability insurance of at least **\$250,000**. Applicants with an active HUD installation license or a license from a reciprocal state are exempt from Kentucky exam and experience requirements.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Who regulates construction

Kentucky houses all trade licensing under a single department — DHBC — with separate divisions for each trade. All divisions share the same street address at 500 Mero Street in Frankfort, but each has its own phone number and application process.

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Plumbing contractors and tradesmen — Division of Plumbing" icon="tool">
    500 Mero St., FL 1, Frankfort, KY 40601-1298

    **Phone:** (502) 573-0397 | **Fax:** (502) 573-1058

    **Website:** [dhbc.ky.gov](http://dhbc.ky.gov/new_docs.aspx?cat=150)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="HVAC contractors and tradesmen — Division of HVAC" icon="temperature">
    500 Mero St., FL 1, Frankfort, KY 40601-1298

    **Phone:** (502) 573-0395 | **Fax:** (502) 573-1401

    **Website:** [dhbc.ky.gov](http://dhbc.ky.gov/new_docs.aspx?cat=150)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Electrical contractors and tradesmen — Division of Electrical" icon="bolt">
    500 Mero St., FL 1, Frankfort, KY 40601-1298

    **Phone:** (502) 573-1797 | **Fax:** (502) 573-1598

    **Website:** [dhbc.ky.gov](http://dhbc.ky.gov/newstatic_info.aspx?static_id=292)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Boiler contractors — Boiler Inspection Section" icon="flame">
    500 Mero St., FL 1, Frankfort, KY 40601-1298

    **Phone:** (502) 573-1708 | **Fax:** (502) 573-1058

    **Website:** [dhbc.ky.gov](http://dhbc.ky.gov/new_docs.aspx?cat=150)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Fire protection sprinkler contractors — Fire Protection Systems" icon="flame">
    500 Mero St., FL 1, Frankfort, KY 40601-1298

    **Phone:** (502) 573-0385 | **Fax:** (502) 573-1004

    **Website:** [dhbc.ky.gov](http://dhbc.ky.gov/new_docs.aspx?cat=150)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="LP gas and underground petroleum storage tank — Division of Fire Prevention" icon="flame">
    500 Mero St., FL 1, Frankfort, KY 40601-1298

    **Phone:** (502) 573-1702 | **Fax:** (502) 573-1695

    **Website:** [dhbc.ky.gov](http://dhbc.ky.gov/new_docs.aspx?cat=150)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Elevator contractors and tradesmen — Elevator Section" icon="building">
    500 Mero St., FL 1, Frankfort, KY 40601-1298

    **Phone:** (502) 573-1694 | **Fax:** (502) 573-1059

    **Website:** [dhbc.ky.gov](http://dhbc.ky.gov/new_docs.aspx?cat=150)
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Requirements

Each DHBC division has its own exam, experience, insurance, fee, and renewal requirements. Expand the trade that applies to your situation. Fee tables are included in each section.

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Plumbing" icon="tool" defaultOpen={true}>
    | Requirement           | Detail                                                                                                                                         |
    | --------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Minimum age           | 18 years                                                                                                                                       |
    | Journeyman exam       | Kentucky journeyman plumber examination, minimum 75% on each portion                                                                           |
    | Journeyman experience | 2 consecutive years as apprentice, or department-approved course plus 1 year as apprentice                                                     |
    | Master exam           | Kentucky master plumber examination, minimum 80% on each portion                                                                               |
    | Master experience     | Valid KY journeyman license for minimum 2 years within past 5 years, plus 2 years employed under a master plumber (or equivalent alternatives) |
    | Insurance (Master)    | General liability not less than **\$250,000**; workers' compensation and unemployment insurance compliance                                     |
    | Renewal cycle         | Annual, expires at end of licensee's birth month                                                                                               |
    | Continuing education  | Required for renewal; completion must be shown if renewing after expiration                                                                    |

    | License Type | Exam Fee  | License and Renewal Fee | Inactive Status Fee | Reactivation Fee |
    | ------------ | --------- | ----------------------- | ------------------- | ---------------- |
    | Journeyman   | **\$50**  | **\$60**                | **\$30**            | **\$30**         |
    | Master       | **\$150** | **\$250**               | **\$125**           | **\$125**        |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="HVAC" icon="temperature">
    | Requirement           | Detail                                                                                                                                |
    | --------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Minimum age           | 18 years                                                                                                                              |
    | Citizenship           | U.S. citizen or authorized resident alien                                                                                             |
    | Master experience     | 2 years under a master HVAC contractor, or 2 years as master HVAC in another jurisdiction, or 2 years as licensed mechanical engineer |
    | Journeyman experience | 2 years in HVAC trades under a master contractor, or 2 years performing HVAC work in KY or another jurisdiction                       |
    | Exam                  | Department-prescribed examination for both journeyman and master                                                                      |
    | Insurance (Master)    | General liability **\$500,000**, property damage **\$300,000**                                                                        |
    | Renewal cycle         | Annual, expires at end of licensee's birth month                                                                                      |

    | License Type | Exam Fee | Renewal Fee | Inactive Status Fee | Restoration Fee | Reactivation Fee |
    | ------------ | -------- | ----------- | ------------------- | --------------- | ---------------- |
    | Journeyman   | **\$80** | **\$50**    | **\$20**            | **\$25**        | **\$20**         |
    | Master       | **\$80** | **\$250**   | **\$20**            | **\$125**       | **\$20**         |

    <Note>
      Exam fees cannot exceed the actual cost of the exam.
    </Note>
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Electrical" icon="bolt">
    | Requirement                     | Detail                                                                                                                                                                                            |
    | ------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Electrical contractor           | Must pass Business and Law Exam; must hold or employ a licensed master electrician                                                                                                                |
    | Electrical contractor insurance | General liability not less than **\$500,000**; workers' compensation and unemployment insurance compliance                                                                                        |
    | Master electrician exam         | Master Electrician's Exam                                                                                                                                                                         |
    | Master electrician experience   | 16,000 hours verifiable experience (approved apprenticeship of 576 hours substitutes for 4,000 hours; associate degree substitutes for 6,000 hours; 2 years teaching substitutes for 4,000 hours) |
    | Electrician (journeyman) exam   | Journeyman's Electrical Exam                                                                                                                                                                      |
    | Electrician experience          | 8,000 hours verifiable experience (approved apprenticeship of 576 hours substitutes for 4,000 hours; associate degree substitutes for 4,000 hours; 2 years teaching substitutes for 4,000 hours)  |
    | Renewal cycle                   | Annual, expires at end of licensee's birth month                                                                                                                                                  |

    | License Type          | Exam Fee  | Application and Renewal Fee | Late Renewal Fee | Reinstatement Fee |
    | --------------------- | --------- | --------------------------- | ---------------- | ----------------- |
    | Electrical Contractor | **\$60**  | **\$200**                   | **\$50**         | **\$200**         |
    | Master Electrician    | **\$100** | **\$100**                   | **\$50**         | **\$100**         |
    | Electrician           | **\$100** | **\$50**                    | **\$50**         | **\$50**          |

    <Note>
      Inactive status is available for any electrical license. Inactive renewal fees are half of the active renewal fee. Reactivation costs the remaining half of the renewal fee for that year.
    </Note>
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Boiler" icon="flame">
    | Requirement         | Detail                                                             |
    | ------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------ |
    | Exam                | Department-prepared and administered examination required          |
    | Scope               | Installing, erecting, or repairing boilers                         |
    | Initial license fee | **\$250**                                                          |
    | Renewal fee         | **\$175**                                                          |
    | Renewal cycle       | Annual, not later than the first of the month following expiration |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Fire Protection Sprinkler Contractors" icon="flame">
    | Requirement                      | Detail                                                                                                                                                    |
    | -------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Certificate of competency        | Must hold or employ a certificate holder                                                                                                                  |
    | Sprinkler system certificate     | NICET Level III or IV in automatic sprinkler systems layout                                                                                               |
    | Chemical suppression (limited)   | Current training certificate from manufacturers of UL-listed or FM-approved systems                                                                       |
    | Chemical suppression (unlimited) | NICET Level III or IV in special hazards                                                                                                                  |
    | Range hood suppression           | Current training certificate from manufacturers of UL-listed or FM-approved systems                                                                       |
    | Insurance                        | Liability **\$500,000** per person, **\$1,000,000** per occurrence, **\$1,000,000** property damage, errors and omissions included; workers' compensation |
    | Contractor license fee           | **\$250** initial and renewal                                                                                                                             |
    | Certificate of competency fee    | **\$125** initial and renewal                                                                                                                             |
    | Renewal cycle                    | Annual, expires at end of birth month                                                                                                                     |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Underground Petroleum Storage Tank (UPST)" icon="tool">
    | Requirement   | Detail                                                                                                                                                                                            |
    | ------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Exam          | Department examination required                                                                                                                                                                   |
    | Experience    | 5 years immediately prior to application, involving minimum 6 underground storage tanks (technical training reduces by one-third; BS engineering or KY engineering license reduces by two-thirds) |
    | Insurance     | General liability minimum **\$500,000**; pollution liability minimum **\$25,000** per occurrence                                                                                                  |
    | Renewal cycle | Annual                                                                                                                                                                                            |

    | License Type    | Exam Fee | Initial Application Fee | Renewal Fee | Re-Test Fee |
    | --------------- | -------- | ----------------------- | ----------- | ----------- |
    | UPST Contractor | **\$50** | **\$300**               | **\$100**   | **\$25**    |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="LP Gas (Classes A through E)" icon="flame">
    | Requirement | Detail                                                                                                                                            |
    | ----------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Scope       | All aspects of LP gas business require proof of financial responsibility and licensing                                                            |
    | Class A     | Selling, delivering, filling containers, requires 18,000-gallon minimum storage (in-state) or storage within 50 miles of KY border (out-of-state) |
    | Class B     | Selling or delivering in containers of 100 lb or less; installing and connecting LP gas equipment                                                 |
    | Class C     | Selling or filling DOT containers of 45 lb or less, or motor vehicle fuel                                                                         |
    | Class D     | Storing for resale in DOT containers of 45 lb or less                                                                                             |
    | Class E     | Assembling, repairing, installing, or connecting LP gas equipment                                                                                 |

    | License Type | License Fee                | Minimum Liability Insurance |
    | ------------ | -------------------------- | --------------------------- |
    | Class A      | **\$200** (2-year license) | **\$1,000,000**             |
    | Class B      | **\$100** (2-year license) | **\$500,000**               |
    | Class C      | **\$100** (2-year license) | **\$500,000**               |
    | Class D      | **\$50** (2-year license)  | **\$100,000**               |
    | Class E      | **\$50** (2-year license)  | **\$500,000**               |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Elevators" icon="building">
    | Requirement            | Detail                                                                                                                   |
    | ---------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
    | Mechanic experience    | 36 months work experience in the elevator industry, or equivalent military service                                       |
    | Mechanic exam          | Department exam based on most recent referenced codes, minimum 70%                                                       |
    | Mechanic alternatives  | Certificate from nationally recognized training program, or apprenticeship completion registered with U.S. Dept of Labor |
    | Contractor requirement | Must employ at least 1 elevator mechanic; 3 years verifiable experience as elevator mechanic (via W-2s)                  |
    | Contractor insurance   | General liability **\$1,000,000** (injury or death), property damage **\$500,000**, workers' compensation                |
    | Continuing education   | 8 hours required before each annual renewal                                                                              |
    | Renewal cycle          | Annual, due by last day of birth month; failure to renew within 60 days terminates the license                           |

    | License Type                           | Exam Fee    | Initial Application Fee | Renewal Fee | Reactivation Fee |
    | -------------------------------------- | ----------- | ----------------------- | ----------- | ---------------- |
    | Contractor                             | N/A         | **\$240**               | **\$240**   | **\$120**        |
    | Mechanic                               | ≤ **\$100** | **\$96**                | **\$96**    | **\$48**         |
    | Accessibility and Residential Mechanic | ≤ **\$100** | **\$96**                | **\$96**    | **\$48**         |
    | Apprentice                             | N/A         | N/A                     | N/A         | N/A              |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Manufactured Home Installers" icon="building-warehouse">
    | Requirement           | Detail                                                                                                                                    |
    | --------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Education             | 15-hour approved course of education                                                                                                      |
    | Exam                  | Department-administered certified installer exam                                                                                          |
    | Insurance             | General liability not less than **\$250,000**; workers' compensation (or notarized waiver)                                                |
    | Experience            | Proof of experience required                                                                                                              |
    | Reciprocity exemption | Applicants with an active HUD installation license or license from a reciprocal state are exempt from KY exam and experience requirements |
    | Application fee       | **\$100**                                                                                                                                 |
    | Renewal fee           | **\$50**                                                                                                                                  |
    | Continuing education  | 5 hours required for renewal                                                                                                              |
    | Renewal cycle         | Annual, expires in birth month                                                                                                            |
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Reciprocal agreements

Kentucky has limited reciprocal agreements, primarily with Ohio for HVAC and electrical licensing, and with Virginia and West Virginia for electrical licensing. For other trades, Kentucky may recognize out-of-state credentials on a case-by-case basis if the issuing state's standards are substantially equal.

<Info>
  Reciprocity in Kentucky is trade-specific, not statewide. Always confirm which DHBC division handles the trade before assuming an out-of-state credential transfers.
</Info>

| Trade                          | Reciprocal states                                               | Coverage                                   |
| ------------------------------ | --------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------ |
| HVAC                           | Ohio                                                            | <Badge color="green">1 state</Badge>       |
| Electrical                     | Ohio, Virginia, West Virginia                                   | <Badge color="green">3 states</Badge>      |
| Manufactured home installation | HUD license holders and states with reciprocal agreements       | <Badge color="yellow">Limited</Badge>      |
| All other trades               | Case-by-case if issuing state has substantially equal standards | <Badge color="yellow">Case-by-case</Badge> |

<Accordion title="Kentucky's case-by-case recognition process" icon="arrow-left-right">
  Kentucky may recognize, on a case-by-case basis, out-of-state credentials for an applicant that holds a current license, certification, or registration in another state whose standards are substantially equal to those required by the Commonwealth. This is not automatic — applicants must apply through the relevant DHBC division and demonstrate equivalency.
</Accordion>

## Types of licenses

Kentucky issues trade-specific credentials across 9 categories. Use this section to confirm the exact license name for an application or comparison.

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Plumbing" icon="tool">
    * Journeyman Plumber
    * Master Plumber
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="HVAC" icon="temperature">
    * Journeyman HVAC Mechanic
    * Master HVAC Contractor
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Electrical" icon="bolt">
    * Electrical Contractor
    * Master Electrician
    * Electrician (Journeyman)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Boiler and Fire Protection" icon="flame">
    * Boiler and Pressure Vessel Contractor
    * Fire Protection Sprinkler Contractor
    * Chemical Suppression System (Limited)
    * Chemical Suppression System (Unlimited)
    * Range Hood Suppression System
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="LP Gas and UPST" icon="flame">
    * LP Gas Class A
    * LP Gas Class B
    * LP Gas Class C
    * LP Gas Class D
    * LP Gas Class E
    * Underground Petroleum Storage Tank Installer/Remover
    * Underground Petroleum Storage Tank Remover Only
    * Underground Petroleum Storage Tank Liner Only
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Elevator" icon="building">
    * Elevator Contractor
    * Elevator Mechanic
    * Accessibility and Residential Mechanic
    * Elevator Apprentice
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Manufactured Homes" icon="building-warehouse">
    * Certified Installer
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## See also

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="South region guide" icon="map" href="/docs/jurisdictions/regions/south">
    Browse all South jurisdictions for comparison.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Contractors guide" icon="hard-hat" href="/docs/personas/contractor">
    Cross-state guidance for contractors evaluating new jurisdictions.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Regulators guide" icon="shield-check" href="/docs/personas/regulatory-staff">
    Cross-state guidance for comparing regulatory models and agency structures.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

**Neighboring jurisdictions with reciprocity ties:**

<CardGroup cols={3}>
  <Card title="Ohio" icon="map-pin" href="/docs/jurisdictions/ohio">
    HVAC and electrical reciprocity with Kentucky.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Virginia" icon="map-pin" href="/docs/jurisdictions/virginia">
    Electrical licensing reciprocity with Kentucky.
  </Card>

  <Card title="West Virginia" icon="map-pin" href="/docs/jurisdictions/west-virginia">
    Electrical licensing reciprocity with Kentucky.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>