> ## 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.

# North Carolina

> Contractor licensing thresholds, regulator routing, requirements, reciprocity, and license types for North Carolina's multi-board construction regulation model.

North Carolina regulates virtually every aspect of commercial, residential, and public works construction at the state level. A general contractor license is required at **\$40,000** or more, and the state operates seven separate boards covering general contracting, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, fire sprinkler, refrigeration, landscape, and alarm systems. NCDOT prequalification adds a separate gate for transportation work.

<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 North Carolina is to know the general contractor threshold and the tiered license system that caps project size.

| Signal                           | Value                                                 |
| -------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------- |
| General contractor trigger       | **\$40,000** or more                                  |
| Landscape contracting trigger    | **\$40,000** or more within a 12-month period         |
| Limited license project cap      | **\$750,000** per project                             |
| Intermediate license project cap | **\$1,500,000** per project                           |
| Unlimited license project cap    | No cap                                                |
| Transportation work              | NCDOT prequalification required                       |
| Reciprocity model                | Board-specific exam waivers and reciprocal agreements |

## 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="What is the minimum contract value that requires a general contractor license in North Carolina?">
        The general contractor threshold is **\$40,000** or more. This applies broadly to building, highway, public utilities, grading, or any improvement or structure. See [Construction work regulated](#construction-work-regulated).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What are the license tiers and how do they cap project size?">
        North Carolina uses a three-tier system: Limited caps projects at **\$750,000**, Intermediate at **\$1,500,000**, and Unlimited has no cap. Each tier has its own financial qualification — Limited requires **\$17,000** working capital or **\$80,000** net worth, Intermediate requires **\$75,000** working capital, and Unlimited requires **\$150,000** working capital. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="Do I need a separate license for electrical, plumbing, or HVAC work?">
        Yes. Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, fire sprinkler, refrigeration, and alarm systems each require a state license from their respective boards regardless of dollar value. Your general contractor license does not cover these trades. See [Construction work regulated](#construction-work-regulated).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="Where do I go to get licensed in North Carolina?">
        North Carolina has seven separate licensing boards plus DOT prequalification. Your first step is identifying which board owns your work lane. General contractors go to the Licensing Board for General Contractors; electrical to the Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors; plumbing, HVAC, and fire sprinkler to their combined board; and so on. See [Who regulates construction](#who-regulates-construction).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How much does it cost to get licensed?">
        General contractor fees depend on tier: Limited is **\$75**, Intermediate is **\$100**, and Unlimited is **\$125** for application and annual renewal. Exam fee is **\$79** for all tiers. Electrical licenses range from **\$100** to **\$200** with a **\$125** exam fee. Plumbing and HVAC exams are **\$100** with **\$150** annual renewal. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="Can I use my out-of-state license in North Carolina?">
        It depends on which board. General contractor reciprocity uses exam waivers (not full reciprocity) covering 5 states plus NASCLA — but you must still pass the NC Business and Law exam. Electrical reciprocity is a full reciprocal agreement covering 10 states. Landscape has no reciprocity. See [Reciprocal agreements](#reciprocal-agreements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="Do subcontractors need their own license?">
        Subcontractors of properly licensed general contractors can work with a registration certificate instead of a full license. However, if the contract is directly with the owner — written, verbal, or otherwise — you are a prime contractor and need a full license. See [Construction work regulated](#construction-work-regulated).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="Does North Carolina accept the NASCLA exam?">
        Yes. The Licensing Board for General Contractors accepts the NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors. However, a separate NC Business and Law exam is still required. See [Reciprocal agreements](#reciprocal-agreements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What about NCDOT prequalification for highway work?">
        Transportation work requires NCDOT prequalification, which is entirely separate from board licensure. You must submit experience history, financial statements, equipment lists, references, resumes, and bonding capacity. A passing safety index score is required. Prequalification is valid for three years with annual renewal. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="Does North Carolina require a license for roofing work?">
        Roofing is a specialty sub-classification under the general contractor license. If the contract is **\$40,000** or more, a general contractor license with the Roofing specialty is required. See [Types of licenses](#types-of-licenses).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="Does North Carolina require a license for residential work?">
        Yes. Residential construction at **\$40,000** or more requires a Residential Contractor (R) classification from the Licensing Board for General Contractors. The same tier system and financial qualifications apply. See [Types of licenses](#types-of-licenses).
      </Accordion>
    </AccordionGroup>
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Regulators" icon="shield-check">
    <AccordionGroup>
      <Accordion title="How does North Carolina's licensing model compare to single-board states?">
        North Carolina is a comprehensive multi-board state with seven separate licensing boards plus DOT prequalification. This contrasts with single-board states like Mississippi. Each board sets its own exams, fees, experience requirements, and reciprocity agreements, making cross-state analysis more complex. See [Who regulates construction](#who-regulates-construction).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How does North Carolina's $40,000 threshold compare to other states?">
        The **\$40,000** threshold is moderate-to-high. Some states trigger as low as **\$500** or **\$1,000** (Virginia), while others like Alabama trigger at **\$100,000**. The tiered system (Limited at **\$750,000**, Intermediate at **\$1,500,000**, Unlimited) adds a financial-capacity layer unique to North Carolina's approach. For cross-state comparison, see [Licensing thresholds](/docs/compare/licensing-thresholds).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What types of construction work are regulated at the state vs. local level?">
        North Carolina regulates nearly everything at the state level through its seven boards: general contracting, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, fire sprinkler, refrigeration, landscape, and alarm systems. Transportation work routes through NCDOT. Local jurisdictions may impose additional permitting requirements, but the primary regulatory framework is state-level.
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How does the tier system interact with financial qualification?">
        Each tier has progressively higher financial requirements: Limited needs **\$17,000** working capital or **\$80,000** net worth; Intermediate needs **\$75,000** working capital; Unlimited needs **\$150,000** working capital. Intermediate and Unlimited require agreed-upon procedures reports, audited financials, or surety bonds. This creates a financial-capacity gate beyond simple licensing. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What license classifications does North Carolina use?">
        General contractors have four primary classifications: Building (B), Residential (R), Highway (H), and Public Utilities (PU), plus 18 specialty sub-classifications. Electrical contractors have 10 classification levels. Plumbing, HVAC, and fire sprinkler have their own class structures. Refrigeration has 4 classes. See [Types of licenses](#types-of-licenses).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How does reciprocity work across North Carolina's boards?">
        Reciprocity varies sharply by board. General contractor reciprocity uses exam waivers covering 5 states plus NASCLA (but the NC Business and Law exam is always required). Electrical reciprocity is a full reciprocal agreement covering 10 states including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Texas. Landscape has no reciprocity. See [Reciprocal agreements](#reciprocal-agreements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What exam requirements exist across the different boards?">
        General contractors require a 70% minimum on a qualifying exam (PSI-administered, NASCLA accepted). Electrical contractors need 70% on trade and business exams with 2-5 years experience. Plumbing and HVAC require 70% on NC trade and business exams with 2 years experience. Fire sprinkler requires NICET Level III plus 70% on NC Business exam. Refrigeration requires 70% on a 3-4 part trade exam. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="What are the renewal cycles across North Carolina's boards?">
        General contractor licenses renew annually. Electrical licenses renew annually from date of issuance with continuing education. Refrigeration licenses expire December 31 annually. Landscape licenses renew annually. NCDOT prequalification is valid for three years with annual renewal. See [Requirements](#requirements).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How fragmented is North Carolina's regulatory model?">
        Highly fragmented — seven separate licensing boards plus DOT prequalification. This means reciprocity, fees, exams, and experience requirements must be evaluated board by board. The general contractor board alone has a three-tier financial system. See [Who regulates construction](#who-regulates-construction).
      </Accordion>

      <Accordion title="How does North Carolina compare to other Southern states in regulatory complexity?">
        North Carolina's 7-board system is among the more complex in the South, comparable to Alabama's 8-board model. The tiered financial qualification system for general contractors adds an additional layer of complexity not found in most states. See the [South region guide](/docs/jurisdictions/regions/south) and [Licensing thresholds](/docs/compare/licensing-thresholds).
      </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 the \$40,000 threshold and work-lane rules, then confirm which board owns the lane.
  </Card>

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

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

  <Card title="Reciprocity direction" icon="arrow-left-right" href="#reciprocal-agreements">
    Find out which boards recognize out-of-state credentials or accept the NASCLA exam.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Special considerations

Different roles need different things from a North Carolina 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 contract value and license tier. In North Carolina, the tier you hold caps the dollar value of each individual project.
    </Tip>

    * The general contractor threshold is **\$40,000** — nearly all construction work requires a license.
    * License tiers cap individual project size: Limited at **\$750,000**, Intermediate at **\$1,500,000**, Unlimited has no cap.
    * Each tier has its own financial qualification: Limited requires **\$17,000** working capital or **\$80,000** net worth; Intermediate requires **\$75,000** working capital; Unlimited requires **\$150,000** working capital.
    * Subcontractors of properly licensed contractors can work with a registration certificate instead of a full license.
    * NCDOT prequalification is a separate gate with its own application, safety index, and three-year cycle.
    * The NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is accepted, but a separate NC Business and Law exam is still required.
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Regulators" icon="shield-check">
    <Info>
      North Carolina is best understood as a comprehensive multi-board state with tiered financial qualification for general contractors.
    </Info>

    * The state operates seven separate licensing boards plus DOT prequalification.
    * General contractor licensing uses a three-tier system (Limited, Intermediate, Unlimited) tied to financial capacity.
    * Reciprocity is board-specific: the general contractor board uses exam waivers, the electrical board has full reciprocal agreements, and the landscape board has none.
    * Use the regulator directory below to confirm which board owns each work lane.
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

## Readiness checklist

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

<Steps>
  <Step title="Classify the project lane" icon="tag">
    Identify whether the work is general construction, a regulated trade (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, fire sprinkler, refrigeration), landscape, alarm systems, or transportation.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Apply the right threshold and tier" icon="receipt">
    Check `$40,000` for general and landscape contractors. For general contractors, determine which tier (Limited, Intermediate, Unlimited) matches your project size and financial capacity.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Route to the correct regulator" icon="building">
    Use the regulator directory below. North Carolina has seven separate boards plus DOT prequalification — do not assume one agency handles all lanes.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Confirm the requirement set" icon="clipboard-check">
    Confirm exams, experience, financial statements, fees, bonds, insurance, and renewal cycles for the exact board before filing.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Check>
  If you can identify lane, threshold, tier, regulator, and requirement set, you have the minimum package needed for a North Carolina 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 North Carolina for the first time.
* [Multi-state bid readiness](/docs/workflows/multi-state-bid-readiness) if you need to compare North Carolina with nearby jurisdictions.
* [Licensing thresholds](/docs/compare/licensing-thresholds) or [prequalification patterns](/docs/compare/prequalification) for cross-state context.

## Construction work regulated

North Carolina casts a wide net. Nearly all commercial, residential, and public works construction requires a state license at the **\$40,000** threshold, and individual trades carry their own board requirements on top.

| Work lane                      | What triggers regulation                                                                                      |
| ------------------------------ | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| General construction           | **\$40,000** or more — includes building, highway, public utilities, grading, or any improvement or structure |
| Manufactured modular buildings | Erecting a modular building with a North Carolina label that complies with the NC State Building Code         |
| Landscape contracting          | **\$40,000** or more within a 12-month period                                                                 |
| Electrical contracting         | State license required regardless of dollar value                                                             |
| Plumbing, HVAC, fire sprinkler | State license required regardless of dollar value                                                             |
| Refrigeration                  | State license required regardless of dollar value                                                             |
| Alarm systems                  | State license required regardless of dollar value                                                             |
| Transportation work            | NCDOT prequalification required for all DOT projects                                                          |

<Note>
  Subcontractors of properly licensed general contractors can work with a registration certificate instead of a full commercial license. If the contract is directly with the owner, a full license is required regardless of the subcontractor relationship.
</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="General commercial or residential construction" icon="building">
    If the contract is **\$40,000** or more, route to the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors. Determine whether you need a Limited, Intermediate, or Unlimited license based on project size. Confirm that you also hold any required trade-specific credentials (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) if the scope includes those trades.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Subcontractor working under a licensed general contractor" icon="building">
    If you have a contract with a properly licensed general contractor (not the owner), you can work with a Subcontractor Registration Certificate instead of a full license. If your contract is with the owner — written, verbal, or otherwise — you are a prime contractor and need a full commercial license.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Transportation or highway work" icon="road">
    Route to NCDOT for prequalification. You must submit experience history, financial statements, equipment lists, references, resumes of principals, and bonding capacity. A passing safety index score is required. Prequalification is valid for three years with annual renewal.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Electrical work" icon="bolt">
    Route to the Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors. License tiers are Limited, Intermediate, Unlimited, and several Special Restricted classifications. Financial capacity (line of credit or bonding verification) is required for Intermediate and Unlimited.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Reciprocity request" icon="arrow-left-right">
    Ask which board is involved first. General contractor reciprocity uses exam waivers (not full reciprocity) and still requires a NC Business and Law exam. Electrical reciprocity is a full reciprocal agreement covering 10 states. Landscape has no reciprocity.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Who regulates construction

North Carolina splits construction regulation across seven separate boards plus DOT prequalification. Use this directory to find the board that owns the lane you need. Each entry includes address, phone, and website.

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="General contractors — Licensing Board for General Contractors" icon="building">
    5400 Creedmoor Road, Raleigh, NC 27612

    **Phone:** (919) 571-4183 | **Fax:** (919) 571-4703

    **Website:** [nclbgc.org](http://www.nclbgc.org/)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Electrical contractors — Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors" icon="bolt">
    505 North Greenfield Pkwy, Suite 100, Garner, NC 27529

    **Phone:** (919) 733-9042 | **Fax:** (800) 691-8399

    **Website:** [ncbeec.org](http://www.ncbeec.org/)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Plumbing, HVAC, and fire sprinkler contractors — Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating & Fire Sprinkler Contractors" icon="tool">
    1109 Dresser Court, Raleigh, NC 27609

    **Phone:** (919) 875-3612 | **Fax:** (919) 875-3616

    **Website:** [nclicensing.org](http://www.nclicensing.org/)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Refrigeration contractors — Board of Refrigeration Contractors" icon="snowflake">
    1027 US 70 Highway West, Suite 221, Garner, NC 27529

    **Phone:** (919) 779-4711

    **Website:** [refrigerationboard.org](http://www.refrigerationboard.org/)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Landscape contractors — Landscape Contractors' Licensing Board" icon="building">
    3901 Barrett Drive, Suite 202, Raleigh, NC 27609

    **Phone:** (919) 266-8070 | **Fax:** (919) 782-9470

    **Website:** [nclclb.com](http://www.nclclb.com/)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Alarm systems — Alarm Systems Licensing Board" icon="building">
    3101 Industrial Drive, Suite 104, Raleigh, NC 27609

    **Phone:** (919) 788-5320

    **Website:** [ncdps.gov/asl](http://www.ncdps.gov/asl)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Transportation prequalification — Department of Transportation" icon="road">
    Contract Standards/Prequalification Management, 1509 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1509

    **Email:** [prequal@ncdot.gov](mailto:prequal@ncdot.gov)

    **Website:** [connect.ncdot.gov/business/prequal](https://connect.ncdot.gov/business/prequal/pages/default.aspx)
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Requirements

Each North Carolina board has its own application inputs, exams, fees, financial requirements, and renewal cycles. Expand the trade that applies to your situation. Fee tables are included in each section.

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="General Contractors" icon="building" defaultOpen={true}>
    | Requirement                            | Detail                                                                                                                                                                                               |
    | -------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Exam                                   | Qualifying examination with a minimum score of 70%. Computer-based exams administered at PSI Examination Services Centers. NASCLA Accredited Exam accepted with a separate NC Business and Law exam. |
    | Financial qualification (Limited)      | Minimum **\$17,000** working capital or **\$80,000** net worth, or surety bond                                                                                                                       |
    | Financial qualification (Intermediate) | Minimum **\$75,000** working capital plus agreed-upon procedures report, audited financials, or surety bond                                                                                          |
    | Financial qualification (Unlimited)    | Minimum **\$150,000** working capital plus agreed-upon procedures report, audited financials, or surety bond                                                                                         |
    | Project cap (Limited)                  | Up to **\$750,000** per project                                                                                                                                                                      |
    | Project cap (Intermediate)             | Up to **\$1,500,000** per project                                                                                                                                                                    |
    | Homeowners Recovery Fund               | **\$10** collected per building permit for residential projects by licensed general contractors                                                                                                      |

    | License tier | Application and annual renewal fee | Exam fee |
    | ------------ | ---------------------------------- | -------- |
    | Limited      | **\$75**                           | **\$79** |
    | Intermediate | **\$100**                          | **\$79** |
    | Unlimited    | **\$125**                          | **\$79** |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Transportation Prequalification" icon="road">
    | Requirement     | Detail                                                                                                             |
    | --------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
    | Submissions     | Experience history, financial statements, equipment lists, references, resumes of principals, and bonding capacity |
    | Contract limits | Determined by bonding ability                                                                                      |
    | Safety index    | Questionnaire with passing grade required                                                                          |
    | Processing time | Average four weeks                                                                                                 |
    | Validity        | Three years with annual renewal including passing safety index                                                     |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Electrical Contractors" icon="bolt">
    | Requirement                       | Detail                                                            |
    | --------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Exam                              | Trade and business examination with a minimum score of 70%        |
    | Experience                        | Two to five years depending on classification                     |
    | Financial capacity (Unlimited)    | Line of credit or bonding verification in excess of **\$150,000** |
    | Financial capacity (Intermediate) | Line of credit or bonding verification in excess of **\$60,000**  |
    | Renewal cycle                     | Annual from date of issuance, subject to continuing education     |

    | License type                    | License fee |
    | ------------------------------- | ----------- |
    | Unlimited                       | **\$200**   |
    | Intermediate                    | **\$150**   |
    | Limited                         | **\$100**   |
    | SP-SFD (Single Family Dwelling) | **\$100**   |
    | Special Restricted              | **\$100**   |
    | Examination fee                 | **\$125**   |
    | Review fee (failed exam)        | **\$25**    |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Plumbing Contractors" icon="tool">
    | Requirement    | Detail                                                                  |
    | -------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Exam           | NC Plumbing trade and business examinations with a minimum score of 70% |
    | Experience     | Two years documented                                                    |
    | Exam fee       | **\$100**                                                               |
    | Annual renewal | **\$150**                                                               |

    License classes:

    * **Plumbing Class I (P-I):** All plumbing activities
    * **Plumbing Class II (P-II):** Limited to single-family detached residential dwellings
    * **Plumbing Technician (P-T):** Supervision only, no contracting — must be employed by a licensed contractor or government agency
    * **Restricted Limited Plumbing:** Building sewers, water service lines 2" or smaller, backflow preventers, water filtration/purification
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Heating and Air Conditioning Contractors" icon="temperature">
    | Requirement    | Detail                                                                 |
    | -------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Exam           | NC Heating trade and business examinations with a minimum score of 70% |
    | Experience     | Two years documented                                                   |
    | Exam fee       | **\$100**                                                              |
    | Annual renewal | **\$150**                                                              |

    License classes:

    * **Heating Group 1 Class I (H-1-I):** All hot water or steam heating for comfort
    * **Heating Group 1 Class II (H-1-II):** Hot water or steam heating, limited to single-family detached residential
    * **Heating Group 2 (H-2):** All heating and AC over 15 tons total load
    * **Heating Group 3 Class I (H-3-I):** All heating and AC of 15 tons or less
    * **Heating Group 3 Class II (H-3-II):** Heating and AC of 15 tons or less, limited to single-family detached residential
    * **Fuel Piping (FP):** All fuel piping — licensed plumbing and HVAC contractors are exempt from needing a separate FP license
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Fire Sprinkler Contractors and Technicians" icon="flame">
    | Requirement                          | Detail                                                                                                                         |
    | ------------------------------------ | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
    | Fire sprinkler installation          | NICET Level III in Water-Based Fire Protection Systems Layout plus NC Business exam (70% minimum)                              |
    | Fire sprinkler inspection contractor | NICET Level III in Water-Based Fire Protection Systems plus NC Business exam (70% minimum)                                     |
    | Fire sprinkler inspector technician  | NICET Level II in Inspection and Testing of Water-Based Systems or 4,000 hours experience plus NC technical exam (70% minimum) |
    | Residential fire sprinkler (RFSC)    | Must hold NC Plumbing Class I or II for at least two years, complete 16-hour NFPA 13D course, pass technical exam              |

    | Fee type                            | Amount    |
    | ----------------------------------- | --------- |
    | Examination fee (all types)         | **\$100** |
    | Annual license fee (all types)      | **\$150** |
    | FSIT application fee (without exam) | **\$30**  |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Refrigeration Contractors" icon="snowflake">
    | Requirement                  | Detail                                                                                            |
    | ---------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Experience                   | 4,000 hours relevant to desired classification (up to half may be academic or technical training) |
    | Exam (commercial/industrial) | Four-part trade examination, 70% minimum on each part                                             |
    | Exam (service/transport)     | Three-part examination, 70% minimum on each part                                                  |
    | Renewal                      | Annual, expires December 31                                                                       |

    | License type          | Exam fee  | Application and annual license | Renewal  | Late fee |
    | --------------------- | --------- | ------------------------------ | -------- | -------- |
    | Class I — Commercial  | **\$100** | **\$80**                       | **\$80** | **\$40** |
    | Class II — Industrial | **\$100** | **\$80**                       | **\$80** | **\$40** |
    | Class III — Service   | **\$100** | **\$80**                       | **\$80** | **\$40** |
    | Class IV — Transport  | **\$100** | **\$80**                       | **\$80** | **\$40** |
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Landscape Contractors" icon="building">
    | Requirement | Detail                                                                                                                                         |
    | ----------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
    | Eligibility | At least 18 years of age, good moral character, business identification, five letters of reference (three personal, two professional)          |
    | Bond        | **\$10,000** surety compliance bond or irrevocable letter of credit                                                                            |
    | Exam        | Three-part examination: general landscape knowledge, plant identification, and site design. Must pass within one year of application approval. |

    | Fee type                                 | Amount    |
    | ---------------------------------------- | --------- |
    | License application                      | **\$75**  |
    | Exam fee                                 | **\$150** |
    | Individual license                       | **\$100** |
    | Corporate license                        | **\$100** |
    | Annual renewal (individual or corporate) | **\$100** |
    | Reciprocity fee                          | **\$100** |
    | Reinstatement fee                        | **\$100** |
    | Late fee                                 | **\$25**  |
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Reciprocal agreements

North Carolina's reciprocity is board-specific and varies widely. The general contractor board uses exam waiver agreements rather than full reciprocity, and still requires a separate NC Business and Law exam. The electrical board has full reciprocal agreements. The landscape board has none.

<Info>
  General contractor exam waivers are not full reciprocity. You must still pass the NC Business and Law exam and meet financial qualification requirements.
</Info>

| Board                              | Reciprocal states                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            | Coverage                                       |
| ---------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------- |
| General contractors (exam waivers) | Alabama (Home Builders + General), Florida (Building), Mississippi (Building, Residential Building, Concrete, Grading/Excavating, Roofing, Swimming Pools, Water/Sewer Lines), South Carolina (Building, Residential, Grading/Excavating, Roofing, Water/Sewer Lines, Water Purification/Sewage Disposal), Tennessee (Building, Residential) | <Badge color="green">5 states + NASCLA</Badge> |
| Electrical contractors             | Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      | <Badge color="green">10 states</Badge>         |
| Landscape contractors              | None                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         | <Badge color="red">No reciprocity</Badge>      |

<Accordion title="NASCLA accredited examination" icon="arrow-left-right">
  The North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors accepts the NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors. Applicants using NASCLA or another state's exam waiver must still complete a separate NC Business and Law exam.
</Accordion>

## Types of licenses

North Carolina offers credentials across seven boards. Use this section to confirm the exact license name for an application or comparison.

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="General Contractors" icon="building">
    Primary classifications:

    * Building Contractor (B)
    * Residential Contractor (R)
    * Highway Contractor (H)
    * Public Utilities Contractor (PU)

    Specialty sub-classifications:

    * Grading and Excavating
    * Boring and Tunneling
    * Communications
    * Concrete Construction
    * Electrical — Ahead of Point of Delivery
    * Fuel Distribution
    * Water Lines and Sewer Lines
    * Water Purification and Sewage Disposal
    * Insulation
    * Interior Construction
    * Marine and Freshwater Construction
    * Masonry Construction
    * Railroad Construction
    * Roofing
    * Metal Erection
    * Swimming Pools
    * Asbestos
    * Wind Turbine
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Electrical Contractors" icon="bolt">
    * Unlimited (U)
    * Intermediate (I)
    * Limited (L)
    * SP-SFD — Single Family Dwelling
    * SP-EL — Elevators, Escalators, Dumbwaiters, Moving Walk, Personal Hoist
    * SP-PH — Plumbing, Heating, and A/C
    * SP-WP — Groundwater Pumps
    * SP-ES — Electrical Signs
    * SP-FA/LV — Fire Alarm / Low Voltage
    * SP-SP — Swimming Pools
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Plumbing and HVAC" icon="tool">
    Plumbing:

    * Plumbing Class I (P-I)
    * Plumbing Class II (P-II)
    * Plumbing Technician (P-T)
    * Restricted Limited Plumbing Contractor
    * Fuel Piping (FP)
    * Fuel Piping Technician (FP-T)

    Heating:

    * Heating Group 1 Class I (H-1-I)
    * Heating Group 1 Class II (H-1-II)
    * Heating Group 2 (H-2)
    * Heating Group 3 Class I (H-3-I)
    * Heating Group 3 Class II (H-3-II)
    * Heating Group 1 Technician (H-1-T)
    * Heating Group 2 Technician (H-2-T)
    * Heating Group 3 Technician (H-3-T)

    Fire Sprinkler:

    * Fire Sprinkler Installation Contractor
    * Fire Sprinkler Inspection Contractor (FSIC)
    * Fire Sprinkler Inspector Technician (FSIT)
    * Fire Sprinkler Maintenance Technician (FSM)
    * Residential Fire Sprinkler Installation Contractor (RFSC)

    Government and educational institution technicians:

    * State and Local Government Plumbing Technician (SLGP-T)
    * State and Local Government Heating Technicians (SLGH-1-T, SLGH-2-T, SLGH-3-T)
    * Private Educational Institution Technicians (PEIT-P, PEIT-H1, PEIT-H2, PEIT-H3)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Refrigeration" icon="snowflake">
    * Class I — Commercial
    * Class II — Industrial
    * Class III — Service
    * Class IV — Transport
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Alarm Systems" icon="building">
    * Alarm Systems License (A)
    * Registered Installer (R)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Landscape" icon="building">
    * Individual License
    * Corporate License
  </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="Alabama" icon="map-pin" href="/docs/jurisdictions/alabama">
    General contractor exam waiver (Home Builders + General) and electrical reciprocity with North Carolina.
  </Card>

  <Card title="South Carolina" icon="map-pin" href="/docs/jurisdictions/south-carolina">
    General contractor exam waiver (multiple classifications) and electrical reciprocity with North Carolina.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Tennessee" icon="map-pin" href="/docs/jurisdictions/tennessee">
    General contractor exam waiver (Building, Residential) and electrical reciprocity with North Carolina.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>