Painting Contractor License Cost Rankings

All states ranked by total initial licensing cost for painting contractors. Find the cheapest and most expensive states to get licensed.

Painting contractor licensing costs are generally among the lowest in the construction trades, reflecting the lower risk profile compared to structural or mechanical work. However, costs still vary significantly by state. If your work involves lead paint removal in pre-1978 buildings, you will also need EPA RRP certification, which adds to your total investment.

Cheapest State

South Carolina

$165 total

Most Expensive

Hawaii

$280 total

National Average

$214

7 states require license

State-by-State Painting Contractor License Costs

Rank	State	Application	License	Exam	Total Cost
1	South Carolina	$55	$110	$0	$165
2	Arizona	$55	$120	$0	$175
3	Nevada	$65	$130	$0	$195
4	Oregon	$65	$140	$0	$205
5	Washington	$70	$145	$0	$215
6	California	$85	$175	$0	$260
7	Hawaii	$90	$190	$0	$280

What Affects Painting Contractor License Costs?

Not all states require a dedicated painting contractor license — some classify painting under general contractor or home improvement categories. States that do require a specific painting license tend to have lower bond requirements and fewer exam hurdles. Commercial painting projects may trigger additional licensing requirements in some jurisdictions.

Key Takeaways

The cheapest state is South Carolina at $165, while the most expensive is Hawaii at $280.
The national average is $214 and the median cost is $205.
These costs are initial licensing fees only — budget separately for surety bonds, insurance, and continuing education.

Costs shown are estimated initial licensing costs only. Actual fees may vary. Renewal fees, insurance, and bond costs are not included. Data last verified January 2026.