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TNState License RequiredNASCLA Accepted

Tennessee Contractor License

Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors

Tennessee requires a state-level contractor license for projects above $3,000 for residential; $25,000 for commercial. Exam required. NASCLA accepted. Administered by Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors.

Quick Reference

GC License Required
Yes
Threshold
$3,000 for residential; $25,000 for commercial
Exam Required
Yes
NASCLA Accepted
Yes
Official Board Website

Fees

Application Fee
$250 (non-refundable)
License Fee
Included in application
Renewal Fee
$250 biennially

Key Facts

  • Residential threshold of $3,000 is one of the lowest in the nation
  • Bond amounts of $500,000 or $1,000,000 are among the highest
  • Home improvement contractors have separate $10,000 bond requirement
  • Application processing takes 4-6 weeks

Insurance Requirements

General Liability
Required for all licensed contractors
Workers Comp
Required for all contractors with employees
Surety Bond
$500,000 (if financial limit $1.5M or less); $1,000,000 (if over $1.5M)

Continuing Education

8 hours for residential contractors

Reciprocity States

ALARGALAMSNCOHSC

Specialty Licenses Required

ElectricalPlumbingHVACMasonryRoofingSwimming Pool

How to Apply

  1. 1Submit application to the Board for Licensing Contractors with $250 fee
  2. 2Pass the Business and Law exam and trade exam (NASCLA accepted)
  3. 3Provide a financial statement showing required financial capacity
  4. 4Obtain general liability and workers compensation insurance
  5. 5Purchase surety bond ($500,000 or $1,000,000 depending on financial limit)
  6. 6Provide letters of reference and notarized affidavit

Penalties for Unlicensed Work

Class A misdemeanor; fines up to $2,500; up to 11 months 29 days jail; loss of lien rights

Related Templates

Pre-Qualification QuestionnaireCOI Request FormSubcontractor Agreement

Frequently Asked Questions

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