General Contractor License in Louisiana

Everything you need to know about getting your general contractor license in Louisiana. A state license is required.

Louisiana Note: License required for commercial projects over $50,000 and residential projects over $75,000.

How to Get Licensed: Step by Step

Meet Basic Requirements

Be at least 18 years old with a valid ID. Pass a background check. Submit fingerprints.

Complete Education

High school diploma or GED; construction management degree may substitute for 2 years experience

Gain 4 Years of Experience

Minimum 4 years of verified construction experience as a journeyman or foreman.

Pass the General Contractor Business and Law Exam

Obtain Insurance & Bonding

Secure General Liability, Workers Compensation insurance and a $12,900 surety bond.

Submit Application

Apply to the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. Pay the application and license fees.

Requirements

Age Requirement	18+
Experience	4 years — Minimum 4 years of verified construction experience as a journeyman or foreman.
Education	High school diploma or GED; construction management degree may substitute for 2 years experience
Background Check	Required
Fingerprinting	Required

Fee Breakdown

Application Fee$130

License Fee$260

Exam Fee$105

Total Initial Cost$495

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)$170

Exam Information

Exam Name: General Contractor Business and Law Exam
Provider: PSI Services
Exam Fee: $105

NASCLA Accepted:Louisiana accepts the NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors.

Insurance & Bonding

Insurance Requirements

Required Types:

General Liability
Workers Compensation

Minimum Coverage:

$1,000,000 per occurrence / $2,000,000 aggregate

Surety Bond

A surety bond of $12,900 is required.

Continuing Education

Hours Required: 16 hours
Period: Every 2 years

License Reciprocity

Louisiana has reciprocity agreements with the following states. This typically means the trade exam may be waived, but you'll still need to meet other state requirements.

Alabama Arizona Arkansas California Florida Georgia Mississippi Nevada North Carolina South Carolina Tennessee

NASCLA Member:Louisiana accepts the NASCLA accredited exam, which can make it easier to get licensed in other NASCLA states.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to work as a general contractor in Louisiana?

Yes, Louisiana requires a state license for general contractors. The license is issued by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors.

How much does a general contractor license cost in Louisiana?

The total initial cost is approximately $495, which includes the application fee ($130), license fee ($260), and exam fee ($105). Renewal costs $170 every 2 years.

How long does it take to get a general contractor license in Louisiana?

You'll need 4 years of experience before you can apply. Once you meet all requirements, the application process typically takes 4-8 weeks.

Is there a general contractor exam in Louisiana?

Yes, you must pass the General Contractor Business and Law Exam, administered by PSI Services. The exam fee is $105.

Does Louisiana have reciprocity with other states for general contractor licenses?

Yes, Louisiana has reciprocity agreements with 11 other states. This may waive the trade exam, but you'll still need to meet other requirements.

Last verified: March 4, 2026

Information sourced from Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. Always verify directly with the licensing authority for the most current requirements.

See something inaccurate?

Licensing requirements change frequently. If you notice outdated or incorrect information about Louisiana General Contractor License, please let us know.

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