Contractor Licensing by Trade

Select a trade to compare licensing requirements across all 50 states.

General

General Contractor

Oversee and manage construction projects from start to finish.

Roofing Contractor

Install, repair, and replace roofing systems on buildings.

Demolition Contractor

Safely demolish buildings and structures.

Excavation Contractor

Perform earthmoving, grading, and site preparation work.

Home Inspector

Inspect residential properties and report on their condition.

Electrical

Electrician

Install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in buildings.

Solar Installer

Install and maintain solar photovoltaic systems on buildings.

Low Voltage Technician

Install low voltage systems including data, security, and fire alarm wiring.

Plumbing

Plumber

Install and repair water supply lines, drainage, and fixtures.

Septic System Installer

Install and maintain septic tanks and drain field systems.

Pipefitter

Install and maintain piping systems for industrial and commercial facilities.

HVAC

HVAC Technician

Install and service heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

Boiler Technician

Install, maintain, and repair boiler and pressure vessel systems.

Structural

Carpenter

Build, install, and repair structures and fixtures made of wood.

Mason

Build structures with brick, stone, concrete block, and similar materials.

Welder

Join metal parts using heat and welding equipment.

Sheet Metal Worker

Fabricate and install sheet metal products for HVAC and construction.

Ironworker

Install structural and reinforcing iron and steel for buildings.

Specialty

Painting Contractor

Apply paint, stains, and coatings to interior and exterior surfaces.

Landscaper

Design, install, and maintain outdoor landscapes and gardens.

Fire Sprinkler Installer

Install and maintain fire sprinkler and suppression systems.

Elevator Mechanic

Install, repair, and maintain elevators and escalators.

Insulation Contractor

Install thermal and acoustic insulation in buildings.

Glazier

Install glass in windows, skylights, and building facades.

Flooring Contractor

Install and finish flooring materials including hardwood, tile, and carpet.

Fencing Contractor

Install and repair fences and gates for properties.

Well Driller

Drill and maintain water wells for residential and commercial use.

Environmental

Asbestos Abatement

Safely remove and dispose of asbestos-containing materials.

Lead Paint Abatement

Remove or encapsulate lead-based paint from buildings.

Pest Control

Control and eliminate pest infestations in buildings.

How Licensing Varies by Trade

Not all contractor trades are regulated equally. Electricians and plumbers are licensed in nearly every state because of the direct public safety risks involved in their work. General contractors are licensed in most states but with widely varying thresholds — some states only require a license for projects above $30,000 or $50,000, while others require one for any paid work. Trades like painting, fencing, and flooring often have minimal or no state-level licensing requirements.

Each trade page provides a national overview so you can compare requirements across all 50 states at a glance. You will find how many states require a license for that trade, the average initial cost of getting licensed, and how many states require a trade exam. This information is especially useful if you are considering expanding your business into new states or evaluating which trades to add to your qualifications.

Beyond licensing, most trades also require insurance and bonding. The type and amount of coverage varies by both trade and state. Higher-risk trades like roofing, demolition, and asbestos abatement face steeper insurance premiums and larger bond requirements. Our bonds and insurance guide explains what to expect and how to keep costs manageable.