Contractor license guides by state
When a contractor needs a state license, how the state organizes licenses, and where to check one. Each guide is sourced from the state's licensing board.
Arizona
A license is required when labor and materials together exceed $1,000, or when the work needs a permit at any price (A.R.S. § 32-1121).
California
Since January 1, 2025, a license is required for any job of $1,000 or more in labor and materials, and for any job that needs a building permit or where the person hires workers, whatever the price (AB 2622).
Florida
Florida licenses contractors in two ways: certified, which is valid anywhere in the state, and registered, which is valid only in the local jurisdictions where the contractor met competency requirements (Chapter 489, Florida Statutes).
Georgia
Residential work worth more than $2,500 needs a residential contractor license, and commercial general contracting needs a general contractor license (O.C.G.A. § 43-41-17).
North Carolina
A general contractor must be licensed when the contract is worth $40,000 or more (G.S. 87-1).
Texas
Texas does not issue a state license for general contractors. The state licenses specific trades instead.
Checked November 1, 2026. General information, not legal advice.