At Licensing Connection, we help contractors and businesses in Georgia get licensed and stay compliant without the delays. Not only that, but we also help experienced licensed professionals turn their credentials into income. Our network spans 50+ states, and every match we make is strictly compliance-first and specific to Georgia contractor licensing requirements. With five-star reviews from our clients, we are known for our fast turnaround and flexible engagements, whether you need a vetted qualifier or want to become one.
So, connect with us today, and let us help get you moving in the right direction!!
Georgia Contractor License Requirements
In Georgia, a license is required to perform or offer to perform residential or commercial general contractor services for compensation. The main requirements are:
- The state operates two separate licensing bodies: the State Licensing Board for Residential and Commercial General Contractors, which handles general and residential licenses. The other one is the State Construction Industry Licensing Board, which is made up of five divisions, and governs specialty trades including Conditioned Air, Electrical, Low Voltage, Plumbing, and Utility Contractors.
- Whosoever is applying needs to be 21 years of age.
- Georgia offers four license classifications: Residential Basic, Residential Light Commercial, General Contractor Limited Tier, and General Contractor. Residential basic and light commercial licenses are required for any job exceeding $2,500. Limited Tier Contractors are capped at projects under $1 million. The general Contractors have no restrictions.
- Residential light commercial, and general contractor applicants must provide either a four-year degree in engineering, architecture, or construction management. They can also provide four years of documented field experience approved by the Board.
- If you are an electrical contractor, then you need to document at least 4 years of experience under a licensed electrical contractor, with three completed reference forms.
- Those who are HVAC applicants need a minimum of 4 years of experience for Class I and 5 years for Class II. A passing exam score of 70, three notarized professional references, and proof of completing the Manuals J&D course are also required for Class II.
- The Georgia contractor license requirements also require master plumber applicants to document 5 years of their experience, with at least 2 years as a licensed Journeyman Plumber.
- To meet financial responsibility requirements, contractors may choose one of the following: a $25,000 surety bond, a $25,000 line of credit letter, a $25,000 letter of credit, a bank credit reference form reflecting 24 months’ history, or affirmation of a minimum net worth of $25,000.
- The general liability insurance requirements vary by classification. The residential basic contractors must carry at least $300,000 per occurrence, while residential light commercial and general contractors must carry at least $500,000 per occurrence. Workers’ compensation is required for any contractor with three or more employees in Georgia.
- Reciprocity and endorsement are also available across multiple license types in Georgia, including general contractor, residential contractor, electrical contractor, conditioned air contractor, low voltage contractor, master plumber, journeyman plumber, and utility manager.
- However, the Division of Master and Journeyman Plumbers does not recognize out-of-state licenses through reciprocity; all plumber applicants must meet Georgia’s requirements independently.
- For general and residential contractor reciprocity, applicants must have held an active license for three consecutive years and pass the Georgia Business & Law Exam.
Let’s turn your Georgia license roadblocks into revenue opportunities. Contact us today for more information!
Frequently Asked Questions On Licensing Requirements
How do I submit my Georgia contractor license application?
You can submit your application online through the state’s GOALS portal. No need to worry, we will assist you properly.
Will Licensing Connection be able to match me with a qualifier in Georgia?
Yes. We work across all major trades in Georgia and guarantee a vetted match within 14 days or your money back.
Do I need a separate qualifier for each trade my company performs in Georgia?
Yes. Each licensed trade, like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC, requires its own separately licensed qualifying agent in Georgia.
Do I need a separate qualifier for each trade my company performs in Georgia?
It does have fees. Though application and examination fees depend on the license type and classification. It is paid through the GOALS portal at the time of submission.
What happens to my contractor license if my qualifying agent leaves?
Your license will be put on an inactive status. You will have 120 days to hire and file a new qualifying agent before penalties start to apply.
