If you want to manage major construction projects or grow a building business in Georgia, you’ll need to be properly licensed. A state-issued General Contractor license allows you to legally bid on and oversee residential, light commercial, and large-scale commercial projects.
This guide covers every stage of the process of becoming a general contractor in Georgia. From choosing the right license type to meeting experience requirements, passing exams, and more, here’s what you need to know.
For official forms, current fees, and application updates, visit the Georgia Secretary of State’s Contractor Licensing Portal.
Why Get Licensed as a General Contractor?
Georgia law requires a contractor license for anyone offering or performing construction services for compensation on projects valued above $2,500. Even small residential remodels can cross that threshold quickly, so it’s essential to know where you stand.
Holding a state license is also a sign of credibility; it gives property owners and developers confidence that you have the qualifications, insurance, and experience to complete the job safely and correctly. Licensed contractors can also bid on higher-value government and commercial projects that unlicensed individuals are barred from pursuing.
1. Understand Georgia’s License Classifications
The Georgia State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors offers four main classifications. Each determines what kinds of projects you can take on and whether contract-value limits apply.
| License Type | What It Covers | Project Limit |
| Residential Basic Contractor | One-family and two-family homes and townhouses up to three stories | Up to 3 stories |
| Residential Light Commercial Contractor | All Residential Basic work plus small commercial structures like offices, retail buildings, or warehouses | Defined by building code scope |
| General Contractor (Limited Tier) | Residential and commercial projects up to a fixed value | Up to $1 million per project |
| General Contractor (Unlimited) | Any residential or commercial project, regardless of size or complexity | No limit |
If you plan to build custom homes or light-commercial spaces, the Residential Basic or Light Commercial license may be sufficient. But if you aim to construct or manage large developments, industrial facilities, or high-rise structures, you’ll need the General Contractor (Unlimited) license, which carries the broadest authority.
2. Fulfill Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before you can apply, you’ll need to meet the state’s baseline qualifications:
- Age and citizenship: Applicants must be at least 21 years old and either a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
- Character: A background check ensures good moral standing and professional responsibility.
- Experience or education: You must demonstrate relevant training or years of work in construction management, supervision, or a related trade.
3. Meet the Education & Experience Requirements
Georgia gives applicants two main ways to qualify. If you hold a four-year degree in construction management, civil engineering, architecture, or a closely related field, you’ll only need one year of practical experience under a licensed contractor.
If you don’t have a degree, you can still qualify with at least four years of proven construction experience, including time spent supervising or managing projects. The board typically expects at least two years in the field and one year in a management capacity.
When you apply, you’ll submit affidavits or detailed project summaries signed by supervisors or previous employers to verify your experience. These records help demonstrate that you understand both fieldwork and administrative duties like scheduling, budgeting, and safety compliance.
4. Meet The Financial & Insurance Requirements
Because contractors handle major financial and physical risks, Georgia requires proof of financial stability and insurance coverage before a license is issued.
Minimum Net Worth
| License Type | Minimum Net Worth |
| General Contractor (Unlimited) | $150,000 |
| General Contractor (Limited Tier) | $25,000 |
| Residential Light Commercial | $25,000 |
| Residential Basic | $25,000 |
Liability & Workers’ Compensation Insurance
| License Type | Minimum Coverage (per occurrence) |
| Residential Basic | $300,000 |
| Residential Light Commercial | $500,000 |
| General Contractor Unlimited or Limited Tier | $500,000 |
If you employ three or more workers, you’re also required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. These protections safeguard both your clients and your business in case of property damage, injury, or legal disputes.
5. Complete The Application & Examination Process
Step 1: Register Your Business
Before applying for a license, form a legal business entity (such as an LLC or corporation) through the Georgia Corporations Division. This ensures your contracting business is properly recognized for tax and liability purposes.
Step 2: Complete the License Application
Select the correct form for your license class. You’ll submit:
- Proof of experience or education
- Insurance and financial documentation
- Background check consent
- The $200 application fee
Step 3: Pass the Required Exams
Georgia requires two exams administered by PSI:
- Business & Law Exam – covers construction law, lien rights, accounting, and business operations.
- NASCLA General Contractor Exam – a national test accepted in multiple states, covering building codes, safety, and project management.
You have three attempts within one year to pass. Failing all three means waiting a full year to reapply, so schedule early and allow time to study.
Step 4: Board Review & Approval
Once PSI submits your passing scores, the Licensing Board reviews your complete packet. Processing typically takes around 20 business days. If they issue a deficiency notice, the 20-day clock restarts after you submit corrections.
6. Take Advantage Of Reciprocity Options (If Applicable)
Georgia maintains reciprocity agreements that make it easier for licensed contractors from other states to obtain a Georgia license:
- General Contractor Unlimited: Reciprocity with Louisiana and Mississippi
- Residential Basic: Reciprocity with Louisiana, Mississippi, and South Carolina
While exams may be waived under reciprocity, applicants must still meet Georgia’s insurance and financial standards and submit documentation verifying their out-of-state license is in good standing.
7. Renew Your License & Continuing Education
Licenses must be renewed every two years by June 30 of even-numbered years. The renewal fee is typically $100, and failing to renew on time can result in penalties or suspension.
Continuing Education (CE)
- Residential Basic and Light Commercial: CE is mandatory — typically 3 to 6 hours annually — focusing on code updates, safety, and business practices.
- General Contractor Unlimited and Limited Tier: CE is not required, but ongoing professional education is highly recommended to stay up-to-date on new building codes and industry regulations.
Even without a CE requirement, many contractors attend workshops or take online NASCLA courses to maintain a competitive edge.
8. Stay Compliant After Licensing
Once licensed, keep all required insurance active and ensure that your business registration, tax filings, and permits are current. Most importantly, perform only work that falls within your license classification and value limits.
Local governments often impose additional business-license or permitting requirements, especially for commercial projects. Check with your county or city building department before starting any job.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Becoming a Contractor in Georgia
Each of these errors is common among first-time applicants, but they’re easy to avoid with preparation and organization.
| Mistake | How to Avoid It |
| Submitting incomplete paperwork | Use the Board’s checklist to confirm every document is attached before mailing or uploading your packet. |
| Taking on jobs outside license scope | Verify each project fits your classification’s limits. |
| Missing exam deadlines | You only get three attempts within one year. Register promptly and study well! |
| Letting insurance lapse | Keep liability and workers’ comp policies current to prevent suspension. |
| Ignoring local registration rules | Always check municipal business-license and permit requirements. |
FAQs: GA Contractor License
Do I need a license for small jobs under $2,500?
No. However, any project valued over $2,500 (especially structural or major remodeling work) requires a state license. Unlicensed contracting above that amount can result in fines or criminal charges.
Can I transfer my out-of-state license?
Only if your current license was issued by Louisiana, Mississippi, or South Carolina (depending on classification). Reciprocity doesn’t automatically grant full privileges; you must still meet Georgia’s requirements and submit a formal application.
How much does it cost to get licensed in Georgia?
Expect to pay anywhere between $300 and $800, which includes application and exam fees, background checks, and insurance setup.
How long does the process take?
Most applicants complete the full process in two to three months, depending on how quickly they submit documents and pass the required exams.
Quick Checklist for Applicants
- Choose the correct license classification.
- Register your business with the Georgia Corporations Division.
- Verify that you meet experience or education requirements.
- Prepare financial statements and proof of insurance.
- Complete the application and pay all fees.
- Pass both required exams (Business/Law + NASCLA).
- Receive board approval and your license number.
- Renew every two years and maintain compliance.
Get Licensed in GA & Work With Confidence
While becoming a licensed general contractor in Georgia requires careful planning and preparation, it’s a valuable investment in your career! With a state license, you can legally bid on large projects, protect your business from liability, and demonstrate professionalism to clients and partners.
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