Contractor License Requirements by State: Every Trade
Which states require a state license for electricians, plumbers, HVAC, general and home improvement contractors, with the statute for each.
By Seayora Editorial Team · Published · Facts checked · 13 min read
Short answer: Whether a contractor needs a state license depends on the state and the trade. By statute, 45 jurisdictions require one for electricians, 45 jurisdictions require one for plumbers, 34 jurisdictions require one for HVAC contractors, 36 jurisdictions require one for general contractors and 11 jurisdictions require one for home improvement contractors, among the jurisdictions read for this guide. Where a state sets no statewide license, cities and counties often license contractors themselves, so the place where the job is matters as much as the state.
Key takeaways
- Licensing is set by each state, and often separately for each trade.
- Electricians: 45 jurisdictions require a state license or registration by statute.
- Plumbers: 45 jurisdictions require a state license or registration by statute.
- HVAC contractors: 34 jurisdictions require a state license or registration by statute.
- General contractors: 36 jurisdictions require a state license or registration by statute.
- Home improvement contractors: 11 jurisdictions require a state license or registration by statute.
- A state with no statewide license often leaves licensing to cities and counties.
- Working without a required license can bar a contractor from suing for payment.
Which trades need a state license?
Licensing for the building trades is set state by state, and often trade by trade. Electricians and plumbers are licensed by the state in most places; general contractors and home improvement contractors are licensed or registered by some states and left to cities and counties in others. Each table below lists the states whose statute requires a state license or registration for that work, with the statute it was read from.
Electricians: which states require a license?
| State | What the state requires | Statute |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Electrical license (state board or local) | Ala. Code §§ 34-36-13, 34-36-3 |
| Alaska | Contractor registration + electrical administrator | Alaska Stat. §§ 08.18.026, 08.18.011, 08.40.090, 18.62.070 |
| Arizona | Contractor license, electrical class (registrar) | A.R.S. §§ 32-1151, 32-1101; Ariz. Admin. Code R4-9-102, R4-9-103 |
| Arkansas | State electrician license | Ark. Code §§ 17-28-304, 17-28-301, 17-28-102 |
| California | C-10 contractor license + electrician certification | Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7058, 7000.5; Cal. Lab. Code §§ 108, 108.2; Cal. Code Regs. tit. 16, § 832.10 |
| Colorado | State electrician license + contractor registration | C.R.S. §§ 12-115-109, 12-115-110, 12-115-116, 12-20-102 |
| Connecticut | State license (contractor or journeyperson) | Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 20-334, 20-338, 20-338a, 20-341 |
| Delaware | State license (Board of Electrical Examiners) | 24 Del. C. §§ 1407, 1408, 1417 |
| District of Columbia | District license (Licensing and Consumer Protection) | D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.02, 47-2853.04, 47-2853.91, 47-2853.93 |
| Florida | State certified or registered electrical contractor | Fla. Stat. §§ 489.505, 489.516 |
| Georgia | State license (Division of Electrical Contractors) | O.C.G.A. §§ 43-14-2, 43-14-8 |
| Hawaii | Electrician license + C-13 contractor license | Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 448E-1, 448E-9, 444-7, 444-9; Haw. Admin. R. § 16-77-28 |
| Idaho | State license (Occupational and Professional Licenses) | Idaho Code §§ 54-1002, 54-1016 |
| Iowa | State electrical license (electrical examining board) | Iowa Code §§ 103.8, 103.11, 103.22 |
| Kentucky | State electrician and electrical contractor license (HBC) | KRS 227A.010, 227A.020, 227A.030 |
| Louisiana | LSLBC electrical license for jobs of $10,000+ | La. R.S. 37:2150.1, 37:2156, 37:2156.1, 37:2157, 37:2163 |
| Maine | State license (Electricians’ Examining Board) | 32 M.R.S. §§ 1201, 1102-D |
| Maryland | State license (State Board of Electricians) | Md. Code, Bus. Occ. & Prof. §§ 6-607, 6-101, 6-601 |
| Massachusetts | State license (Board of State Examiners of Electricians) | M.G.L. c. 141, §§ 1A, 7 |
| Michigan | State license (Skilled Trades Regulation Act) | MCL 339.5731, 339.5737 |
| Minnesota | State license (commissioner of labor and industry) | Minn. Stat. § 326B.33 |
| Mississippi | Board of Contractors license (residential projects) | Miss. Code §§ 73-59-3, 73-59-1, 31-3-15, 31-3-1 |
| Montana | State electrical license (Dept. of Labor and Industry) | Mont. Code Ann. §§ 37-68-301, 37-68-102 |
| Nebraska | State electrical license (State Electrical Board) | Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 81-2108, 81-2106, 81-2102 |
| Nevada | State contractor license, C-2 electrical specialty | NRS 624.700, 624.215, 624.031; NAC 624.200 |
| New Hampshire | State electrician license (OPLC, Electricians’ Board) | RSA 319-C:1, 319-C:2, 319-C:3 |
| New Jersey | Electrical contractor license and business permit | N.J.S.A. 45:5A-9 |
| New Mexico | State contractor license, electrical classification | N.M. Stat. §§ 60-13-12, 60-13-3, 60-13-2 |
| North Carolina | State electrical contractor license | N.C. Gen. Stat. § 87-43 |
| North Dakota | State electrician license (state electrical board) | N.D. Cent. Code §§ 43-09-09, 43-09-10, 43-09-20 |
| Ohio | State contractor license (commercial work only) | Ohio Rev. Code §§ 4740.01, 4740.13, 3781.06 |
| Oklahoma | State electrical contractor/journeyman license | 59 O.S. §§ 1682, 1690, 1692 |
| Oregon | State electrical contractor + electrician licenses | ORS 479.540, 479.620, 479.630 |
| Rhode Island | State electrical license (board of electricians) | R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-6-2 |
| South Carolina | State license: mechanical (electrical) or residential | S.C. Code §§ 40-11-10, 40-11-30, 40-11-410, 40-59-20, 40-59-30 |
| South Dakota | State electrical license (State Electrical Commission) | SDCL §§ 36-16-1, 36-16-2, 36-16-14 |
| Tennessee | State license (board for licensing contractors) | Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-102, 62-6-103, 62-6-111 |
| Texas | State electrical license (TDLR) | Tex. Occ. Code §§ 1305.001, 1305.002, 1305.151 |
| Utah | State license (Construction Trades Licensing Act) | Utah Code § 58-55-301 |
| Vermont | State electrician license (Electricians’ Licensing Board) | 26 V.S.A. §§ 911, 910 |
| Virginia | State tradesman license (Board for Contractors) | Va. Code §§ 54.1-1129, 54.1-1128, 54.1-1100 |
| Washington | State electrician certificate and contractor license | RCW 19.28.161, 19.28.041 |
| West Virginia | State Fire Marshal electrician license | W. Va. Code §§ 29-3B-2, 30-42-3 |
| Wisconsin | State electrician and electrical contractor license | Wis. Stat. §§ 101.862, 101.01 |
| Wyoming | State electrician and electrical contractor license | Wyo. Stat. §§ 35-9-123, 35-9-122, 35-9-125 |
Plumbers: which states require a license?
| State | What the state requires | Statute |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | State certificate (Plumbers and Gas Fitters Board) | Ala. Code §§ 34-37-6, 34-37-2, 34-37-15 |
| Alaska | Certificate of fitness + mechanical administrator | Alaska Stat. §§ 18.62.070, 08.18.028, 08.18.171, 08.40.260, 08.40.390 |
| Arizona | Contractor license, plumbing class (registrar) | A.R.S. §§ 32-1151, 32-1101; Ariz. Admin. Code R4-9-102, R4-9-103 |
| Arkansas | State plumber license (Department of Health) | Ark. Code §§ 17-38-301, 17-38-302 |
| California | C-36 plumbing contractor license (CSLB) | Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7058, 7000.5; Cal. Code Regs. tit. 16, § 832.36 |
| Colorado | State plumber license + contractor registration | C.R.S. §§ 12-155-108, 12-155-118, 12-155-125, 12-20-102 |
| Connecticut | State license (contractor or journeyperson) | Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 20-334, 20-338, 20-338a, 20-341 |
| Delaware | Master plumber license (Board of Plumbing/HVACR) | 24 Del. C. §§ 1802, 1807 |
| District of Columbia | District license (Licensing and Consumer Protection) | D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.02, 47-2853.04, 47-2853.121, 47-2853.123 |
| Florida | State certified or registered plumbing contractor | Fla. Stat. §§ 489.105, 489.113 |
| Georgia | Master plumber license (State Construction Industry Board) | O.C.G.A. §§ 43-14-2, 43-14-13 |
| Hawaii | Plumber license + C-37 contractor license | Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 448E-1, 448E-9, 444-7, 444-9; Haw. Admin. R. § 16-77-28 |
| Idaho | State certificate of competency (plumbing) | Idaho Code §§ 54-2602, 54-2610 |
| Illinois | State plumber license; contractors register (IDPH) | 225 ILCS 320/2, 320/3, 320/13.1 |
| Indiana | State plumbing contractor or journeyman license | Ind. Code §§ 25-28.5-1-3, 25-28.5-1-11, 25-28.5-1-32 |
| Iowa | State plumbing license (plumbing and mechanical board) | Iowa Code §§ 105.3, 105.10, 105.11 |
| Kentucky | State master or journeyman plumber license (HBC) | KRS 318.010, 318.015, 318.030 |
| Louisiana | State Plumbing Board license (plus LSLBC at $10,000+) | La. R.S. 37:1361, 37:1367, 37:1377, 37:2150.1, 37:2156.1 |
| Maine | State license (Plumbers’ Examining Board) | 32 M.R.S. §§ 3302, 3301 |
| Maryland | State license (State Board of Plumbing) | Md. Code, Bus. Occ. & Prof. §§ 12-301, 12-101, 12-103 |
| Massachusetts | State license; license number in every ad | M.G.L. c. 142, § 3 |
| Michigan | State license (Skilled Trades Regulation Act) | MCL 339.6107, 339.6111 |
| Minnesota | State license (commissioner of labor and industry) | Minn. Stat. §§ 326B.46, 326B.01 |
| Mississippi | Board of Contractors license (residential projects) | Miss. Code §§ 73-59-3, 73-59-1, 31-3-15, 31-3-1 |
| Montana | State master or journeyman plumber license | Mont. Code Ann. §§ 37-69-301, 37-69-101 |
| Nevada | State contractor license, C-1 plumbing specialty | NRS 624.700, 624.215, 624.031; NAC 624.190 |
| New Hampshire | State plumber license (Mechanical Licensing Board) | RSA 153:29, 153:29-a, 153:27, 153:36, 310:13 |
| New Jersey | State master plumber license (Board of Master Plumbers) | N.J.S.A. 45:14C-12.3, 45:14C-2 |
| New Mexico | State contractor license, plumbing classification | N.M. Stat. §§ 60-13-12, 60-13-3, 60-13-2 |
| North Carolina | State plumbing contractor license | N.C. Gen. Stat. § 87-21 |
| North Dakota | State plumber license where public water/sewer exists | N.D. Cent. Code §§ 43-18-10, 43-18-11, 43-18-23 |
| Ohio | State contractor license (commercial work only) | Ohio Rev. Code §§ 4740.01, 4740.13, 3781.06 |
| Oklahoma | State plumbing contractor/journeyman license | 59 O.S. §§ 1003, 1012, 1017 |
| Oregon | State plumbing contractor + journeyman licenses | ORS 447.040, 447.060, 693.030, 693.060 |
| Rhode Island | State master plumber license | R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-20-8 |
| South Carolina | State license: mechanical (plumbing) or residential | S.C. Code §§ 40-11-30, 40-11-410, 40-59-20, 40-59-30 |
| South Dakota | State plumbing license (State Plumbing Commission) | SDCL §§ 36-25-17, 36-25-19 |
| Tennessee | State limited licensed plumber (or local) license | Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-102, 62-6-103, 62-6-402, 62-6-404 |
| Texas | State plumbing license (Board of Plumbing Examiners) | Tex. Occ. Code §§ 1301.001, 1301.002, 1301.351 |
| Utah | State license (Construction Trades Licensing Act) | Utah Code § 58-55-301 |
| Vermont | State plumber license (Plumber’s Examining Board) | 26 V.S.A. §§ 2198, 2197 |
| Virginia | State tradesman license (Board for Contractors) | Va. Code §§ 54.1-1129, 54.1-1128, 54.1-1100 |
| Washington | State plumbing certificate and contractor license | RCW 18.106.020 |
| West Virginia | State plumber license (Commissioner of Labor) | W. Va. Code § 21-14-3 |
| Wisconsin | State plumber license (Safety and Professional Services) | Wis. Stat. §§ 145.06, 145.01 |
HVAC contractors: which states require a license?
| State | What the state requires | Statute |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | State HVAC/refrigeration contractor certification | Ala. Code §§ 34-31-24, 34-31-18, 34-31-28 |
| Alaska | Mechanical contractor + mechanical administrator | Alaska Stat. §§ 08.18.028, 08.18.171, 08.40.260, 08.40.390 |
| Arizona | Contractor license, A/C and refrigeration class | A.R.S. §§ 32-1151, 32-1101; Ariz. Admin. Code R4-9-102, R4-9-103 |
| Arkansas | State HVACR license (HVACR Licensing Board) | Ark. Code §§ 17-33-301, 17-33-101, 17-33-102, 17-33-201, 17-33-202 |
| California | C-20 HVAC contractor license (CSLB) | Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7058, 7000.5; Cal. Code Regs. tit. 16, § 832.20 |
| Connecticut | State license (contractor or journeyperson) | Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 20-334, 20-338, 20-338a, 20-341 |
| Delaware | Master HVACR license (Board of Plumbing/HVACR) | 24 Del. C. §§ 1802, 1820 |
| District of Columbia | Refrigeration and AC mechanic license (District) | D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.02, 47-2853.04, 47-2853.201, 47-2853.203 |
| Florida | State certified or registered AC/mechanical contractor | Fla. Stat. §§ 489.105, 489.113 |
| Georgia | Conditioned air contractor license (state) | O.C.G.A. §§ 43-14-2, 43-14-14 |
| Hawaii | C-52 ventilating and AC contractor license | Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 444-7, 444-9; Haw. Admin. R. § 16-77-28 |
| Idaho | State HVAC certificate of competency | Idaho Code §§ 54-5002, 54-5003, 54-5008 |
| Iowa | State HVAC license (plumbing and mechanical board) | Iowa Code §§ 105.3, 105.10, 105.11 |
| Kentucky | State master HVAC contractor license (HBC) | KRS 198B.650, 198B.656, 198B.674 |
| Louisiana | LSLBC mechanical license for jobs of $10,000+ | La. R.S. 37:2150.1, 37:2156, 37:2156.1, 37:2157, 37:2163 |
| Maine | Fuel Board license for fuel-burning heating equipment | 32 M.R.S. § 18102 |
| Maryland | State HVACR license (State Board of HVACR Contractors) | Md. Code, Bus. Reg. §§ 9A-301, 9A-101, 9A-302 |
| Massachusetts | State license for large refrigeration and heating systems | M.G.L. c. 146, §§ 84, 81, 86; c. 112, § 238 |
| Michigan | State mechanical contractor license, by classification | MCL 339.5809, 339.5807, 339.5811, 339.5819 |
| Mississippi | Board of Contractors license (residential projects) | Miss. Code §§ 73-59-3, 73-59-1, 31-3-15, 31-3-1 |
| Nevada | State contractor license, C-21 refrigeration and AC | NRS 624.700, 624.215, 624.031; NAC 624.380 |
| New Jersey | Master HVACR contractor license; no local licenses | N.J.S.A. 45:16A-6, 45:16A-7, 45:16A-13 |
| New Mexico | State contractor license, mechanical classification | N.M. Stat. §§ 60-13-12, 60-13-3, 60-13-2 |
| North Carolina | State heating contractor license (groups 1-3) | N.C. Gen. Stat. § 87-21 |
| Ohio | State contractor license (commercial work only) | Ohio Rev. Code §§ 4740.01, 4740.13, 3781.06 |
| Oklahoma | State mechanical contractor/journeyman license | 59 O.S. §§ 1850.2, 1850.7, 1850.10 |
| Rhode Island | State mechanical trades license (refrigeration/AC) | R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 28-27-1, 28-27-4, 28-27-5 |
| South Carolina | State license: mechanical (AC/heating) or residential | S.C. Code §§ 40-11-30, 40-11-410, 40-59-20, 40-59-30 |
| Tennessee | Contractor license (mechanical) for jobs $25,000+ | Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-102, 62-6-103, 62-6-112, 62-6-503; Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0680-01-.16 |
| Texas | State air conditioning and refrigeration license (TDLR) | Tex. Occ. Code §§ 1302.002, 1302.251, 1302.252 |
| Utah | State HVAC contractor license | Utah Code §§ 58-55-301, 58-55-305, 58-55-102 |
| Vermont | Heating specialist license (hot-water heating only) | 26 V.S.A. §§ 2197, 2172, 2198 |
| Virginia | State tradesman license (Board for Contractors) | Va. Code §§ 54.1-1100, 54.1-1128, 54.1-1129 |
| West Virginia | State HVAC license (Commissioner of Labor) | W. Va. Code §§ 21-16-3, 30-42-3 |
General contractors: which states require a license?
| State | What the state requires | Statute |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | State GC license at $100,000 or more | Ala. Code §§ 34-8-1, 34-8-6, 34-8-7 |
| Alaska | State contractor registration (+ residential endorsement) | Alaska Stat. §§ 08.18.011, 08.18.025, 08.18.171, 08.18.161 |
| Arizona | State contractor license (registrar of contractors) | A.R.S. §§ 32-1151, 32-1101, 32-1102, 32-1121; Ariz. Admin. Code R4-9-103 |
| Arkansas | State contractor license at $50,000 or more | Ark. Code §§ 17-25-101, 17-25-103, 17-25-505, 17-25-513 |
| California | State contractor license (jobs of $1,000 or more) | Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7026, 7048, 7055, 7057, 7057.5, 7150.1, 7000.5 |
| Connecticut | New home builder registration (Consumer Protection) | Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 20-417a, 20-417b, 20-341gg |
| Delaware | Contractor business license + Labor registration | 30 Del. C. §§ 2501, 2502; 19 Del. C. §§ 3602, 3604, 3605 |
| District of Columbia | General Contractor/Construction Manager license | 17 DCMR §§ 3900, 3901, 3999 |
| Florida | State certified or registered contractor (CILB) | Fla. Stat. §§ 489.103, 489.105, 489.113 |
| Georgia | Residential or commercial general contractor license | O.C.G.A. §§ 43-41-2, 43-41-17 |
| Hawaii | State contractor license (Contractors License Board) | Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 444-2, 444-7, 444-9, 444-25.5 |
| Idaho | State contractor registration (Idaho contractors board) | Idaho Code §§ 54-5203, 54-5204, 54-5205, 54-5208 |
| Iowa | State contractor registration ($2,000+ a year) | Iowa Code §§ 91C.1, 91C.2 |
| Louisiana | LSLBC license: $50,000+ jobs; $7,500+ home repairs | La. R.S. 37:2150.1, 37:2157, 37:2160, 37:2163 |
| Maryland | Home builder registration (Attorney General’s office) | Md. Code, Bus. Reg. §§ 4.5-301, 4.5-101, 4.5-501 |
| Massachusetts | Construction supervisor license (BBRS) | 780 CMR 110.R5.1; M.G.L. c. 143, § 94 |
| Michigan | State residential builder or M&A contractor license | MCL 339.601, 339.2401, 339.2403 |
| Minnesota | State residential building contractor or remodeler license | Minn. Stat. §§ 326B.805, 326B.802 |
| Mississippi | Board of Contractors license (builders and remodelers) | Miss. Code §§ 73-59-3, 73-59-1, 73-59-15, 31-3-15, 31-3-1 |
| Montana | State construction contractor license (Dept. of Labor) | Mont. Code Ann. §§ 37-45-201, 37-45-102, 37-45-104 |
| Nebraska | State contractor registration (Dept. of Labor) | Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 48-2104, 48-2103, 48-2105 |
| Nevada | State contractor license (State Contractors’ Board) | NRS 624.700, 624.020, 624.215, 624.031; NAC 624.160 |
| New Jersey | New home builder registration (Dept. of Community Affairs) | N.J.S.A. 46:3B-5, 46:3B-2 |
| New Mexico | State contractor license (Construction Industries Division) | N.M. Stat. §§ 60-13-12, 60-13-3, 60-13-2 |
| North Carolina | State general contractor license at $40,000+ | N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 87-1, 87-10, 87-13 |
| North Dakota | State contractor license for jobs over $4,000 | N.D. Cent. Code §§ 43-07-01, 43-07-02, 43-07-07 |
| Oregon | Construction Contractors Board license + endorsement | ORS 701.005, 701.010, 701.021 |
| Rhode Island | Registration with the Contractors’ Registration Board | R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 5-65-1, 5-65-3 |
| South Carolina | General contractor license over $10,000 | S.C. Code §§ 40-11-10, 40-11-30, 40-11-410 |
| Tennessee | Contractor license for projects $25,000+ | Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-102, 62-6-103, 62-6-112 |
| Utah | State contractor license; repairs under $7,000 exempt | Utah Code §§ 58-55-301, 58-55-305 |
| Vermont | State registration for residential jobs over $10,000 | 26 V.S.A. §§ 5501, 5502 |
| Virginia | State contractor license (Class A, B or C) over $1,000 | Va. Code §§ 54.1-1103, 54.1-1100 |
| Washington | State contractor registration (Labor and Industries) | RCW 18.27.020, 18.27.010 |
| West Virginia | State contractor license ($5,000+ residential) | W. Va. Code §§ 30-42-6, 30-42-3 |
| Wisconsin | Dwelling contractor certificate to get a building permit | Wis. Stat. §§ 101.654, 101.61 |
Home improvement contractors: which states require a license?
| State | What the state requires | Statute |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Home builder license over $10,000 (repairs too) | Ala. Code §§ 34-14A-2, 34-14A-5 |
| Arkansas | Home improvement license over $2,000 | Ark. Code §§ 17-25-505, 17-25-502, 17-25-513 |
| Connecticut | Registration, above $1,000 of contracts a year | Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 20-419, 20-420, 20-427, 20-428 |
| District of Columbia | Home improvement contractor license (District rule) | 16 DCMR §§ 800, 801, 899; 17 DCMR § 3900 |
| Louisiana | LSLBC home improvement license, $7,500 to $50,000 | La. R.S. 37:2150.1, 37:2156.1, 37:2157, 37:2163 |
| Maryland | State license (Maryland Home Improvement Commission) | Md. Code, Bus. Reg. §§ 8-301, 8-101 |
| Massachusetts | Registration; written contract over $1,000 | M.G.L. c. 142A, §§ 2, 9 |
| New Jersey | Annual registration with the Division of Consumer Affairs | N.J.S.A. 56:8-138 |
| Pennsylvania | Registration with the Attorney General (HICPA) | 73 P.S. §§ 517.2, 517.3 |
| South Carolina | Residential builder license over $5,000 | S.C. Code §§ 40-59-20, 40-59-30 |
| Tennessee | Home improvement license for jobs over $3,000 | Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-501, 62-6-502, 62-6-505, 62-6-516 |
What if my state is not listed?
A state missing from a table did not show a statewide license for that trade in this research. That does not mean the work is unregulated: cities and counties often license contractors themselves, and New York City, for example, licenses electricians, plumbers and home improvement contractors locally. Check the city or county where the job is before starting work.
What happens if a contractor works without a required license?
- Many statutes make unlicensed contracting a crime or a civil violation with a fine for each job.
- In many states an unlicensed contractor cannot sue to collect payment for the work, and may lose the right to a mechanic’s lien.
- Building permits usually require a licensed contractor of record, and insurers can refuse a claim on work done without one.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a contractor license in every state?
No. Some states license general contractors statewide and others leave it to cities and counties. Most states do license electricians and plumbers.
Is a home improvement registration the same as a license?
Not always. Several states require home improvement contractors to register with a consumer protection agency rather than pass a licensing exam.
Can an unlicensed contractor collect payment?
In many states a contractor who needed a license and did not hold one cannot sue to collect for the work.
State-by-state rules
- Do you need a license to do electrical work? — compared across 44 states and the District of Columbia
- Do you need a license to work as a plumber? — compared across 44 states and the District of Columbia
- Do HVAC contractors need a license? — compared across 33 states and the District of Columbia
- Do you need a general contractor license? — compared across 35 states and the District of Columbia
- Does a home improvement contractor need a license or registration? — compared across 10 states and the District of Columbia
Sources
- Alabama: Ala. Code §§ 34-36-13, 34-36-3, Code of Alabama (Alabama Legislature)
- Alabama: Ala. Code §§ 34-36-13, 34-36-3, Code of Alabama (Alabama Legislature)
- Alaska: Alaska Stat. §§ 08.18.026, 08.18.011, 08.40.090, 18.62.070, Alaska Statutes (Alaska Legislature)
- Alaska: Alaska Stat. §§ 08.18.026, 08.18.011, 08.40.090, 18.62.070, Alaska Statutes (Alaska Legislature)
- Alaska: Alaska Stat. §§ 08.18.026, 08.18.011, 08.40.090, 18.62.070, Alaska Statutes (Alaska Legislature)
- Alaska: Alaska Stat. §§ 08.18.026, 08.18.011, 08.40.090, 18.62.070, Alaska Statutes (Alaska Legislature)
- Arizona: A.R.S. §§ 32-1151, 32-1101; Ariz. Admin. Code R4-9-102, R4-9-103, Arizona Revised Statutes (Arizona Legislature)
- Arizona: A.R.S. §§ 32-1151, 32-1101; Ariz. Admin. Code R4-9-102, R4-9-103, Arizona Revised Statutes (Arizona Legislature)
- Arizona: A.R.S. §§ 32-1151, 32-1101; Ariz. Admin. Code R4-9-102, R4-9-103, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Arizona: A.R.S. §§ 32-1151, 32-1101; Ariz. Admin. Code R4-9-102, R4-9-103, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Arkansas: Ark. Code §§ 17-28-304, 17-28-301, 17-28-102, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Arkansas: Ark. Code §§ 17-28-304, 17-28-301, 17-28-102, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Arkansas: Ark. Code §§ 17-28-304, 17-28-301, 17-28-102, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- California: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7058, 7000.5; Cal. Lab. Code §§ 108, 108.2; Cal. Code Regs. tit. 16, § 832.10, California Codes (California Legislative Information)
- California: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7058, 7000.5; Cal. Lab. Code §§ 108, 108.2; Cal. Code Regs. tit. 16, § 832.10, California Codes (California Legislative Information)
- California: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7058, 7000.5; Cal. Lab. Code §§ 108, 108.2; Cal. Code Regs. tit. 16, § 832.10, California Codes (California Legislative Information)
- California: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7058, 7000.5; Cal. Lab. Code §§ 108, 108.2; Cal. Code Regs. tit. 16, § 832.10, California Codes (California Legislative Information)
- California: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7058, 7000.5; Cal. Lab. Code §§ 108, 108.2; Cal. Code Regs. tit. 16, § 832.10, California Codes (California Legislative Information)
- California: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7058, 7000.5; Cal. Lab. Code §§ 108, 108.2; Cal. Code Regs. tit. 16, § 832.10, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Colorado: C.R.S. §§ 12-115-109, 12-115-110, 12-115-116, 12-20-102, Colorado Revised Statutes (Colorado General Assembly)
- Connecticut: Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 20-334, 20-338, 20-338a, 20-341, Connecticut General Statutes (Connecticut General Assembly)
- Connecticut: Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 20-334, 20-338, 20-338a, 20-341, Connecticut General Statutes (Connecticut General Assembly)
- Connecticut: Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 20-334, 20-338, 20-338a, 20-341, Connecticut General Statutes (Connecticut General Assembly)
- Connecticut: Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 20-334, 20-338, 20-338a, 20-341, Connecticut General Statutes (Connecticut General Assembly)
- Delaware: 24 Del. C. §§ 1407, 1408, 1417, Delaware Code (Delaware General Assembly)
- Delaware: 24 Del. C. §§ 1407, 1408, 1417, Delaware Code (Delaware General Assembly)
- Delaware: 24 Del. C. §§ 1407, 1408, 1417, Delaware Code (Delaware General Assembly)
- District of Columbia: D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.02, 47-2853.04, 47-2853.91, 47-2853.93, Code of the District of Columbia (DC Council)
- District of Columbia: D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.02, 47-2853.04, 47-2853.91, 47-2853.93, Code of the District of Columbia (DC Council)
- District of Columbia: D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.02, 47-2853.04, 47-2853.91, 47-2853.93, Code of the District of Columbia (DC Council)
- District of Columbia: D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.02, 47-2853.04, 47-2853.91, 47-2853.93, Code of the District of Columbia (DC Council)
- Florida: Fla. Stat. §§ 489.505, 489.516, Florida Statutes (The Florida Senate)
- Florida: Fla. Stat. §§ 489.505, 489.516, Florida Statutes (The Florida Senate)
- Georgia: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-14-2, 43-14-8, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Georgia: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-14-2, 43-14-8, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Hawaii: Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 448E-1, 448E-9, 444-7, 444-9; Haw. Admin. R. § 16-77-28, Hawaii Revised Statutes (Hawaii State Legislature)
- Hawaii: Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 448E-1, 448E-9, 444-7, 444-9; Haw. Admin. R. § 16-77-28, Hawaii Revised Statutes (Hawaii State Legislature)
- Hawaii: Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 448E-1, 448E-9, 444-7, 444-9; Haw. Admin. R. § 16-77-28, Hawaii Revised Statutes (Hawaii State Legislature)
- Hawaii: Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 448E-1, 448E-9, 444-7, 444-9; Haw. Admin. R. § 16-77-28, Hawaii Revised Statutes (Hawaii State Legislature)
- Hawaii: Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 448E-1, 448E-9, 444-7, 444-9; Haw. Admin. R. § 16-77-28, Hawaii Revised Statutes (Hawaii State Legislature)
- Idaho: Idaho Code §§ 54-1002, 54-1016, Idaho Statutes (Idaho Legislature)
- Idaho: Idaho Code §§ 54-1002, 54-1016, Idaho Statutes (Idaho Legislature)
- Iowa: Iowa Code §§ 103.8, 103.11, 103.22, Iowa Code (Iowa Legislature)
- Iowa: Iowa Code §§ 103.8, 103.11, 103.22, Iowa Code (Iowa Legislature)
- Iowa: Iowa Code §§ 103.8, 103.11, 103.22, Iowa Code (Iowa Legislature)
- Kentucky: KRS 227A.010, 227A.020, 227A.030, Kentucky Revised Statutes (Kentucky General Assembly)
- Kentucky: KRS 227A.010, 227A.020, 227A.030, Kentucky Revised Statutes (Kentucky General Assembly)
- Kentucky: KRS 227A.010, 227A.020, 227A.030, Kentucky Revised Statutes (Kentucky General Assembly)
- Louisiana: La. R.S. 37:2150.1, 37:2156, 37:2156.1, 37:2157, 37:2163, Louisiana Laws (Louisiana State Legislature)
- Louisiana: La. R.S. 37:2150.1, 37:2156, 37:2156.1, 37:2157, 37:2163, Louisiana Laws (Louisiana State Legislature)
- Louisiana: La. R.S. 37:2150.1, 37:2156, 37:2156.1, 37:2157, 37:2163, Louisiana Laws (Louisiana State Legislature)
- Louisiana: La. R.S. 37:2150.1, 37:2156, 37:2156.1, 37:2157, 37:2163, Louisiana Laws (Louisiana State Legislature)
- Louisiana: La. R.S. 37:2150.1, 37:2156, 37:2156.1, 37:2157, 37:2163, Louisiana Laws (Louisiana State Legislature)
- Maine: 32 M.R.S. §§ 1201, 1102-D, Maine Revised Statutes (Maine Legislature)
- Maine: 32 M.R.S. §§ 1201, 1102-D, Maine Revised Statutes (Maine Legislature)
- Maryland: Md. Code, Bus. Occ. & Prof. §§ 6-607, 6-101, 6-601, Maryland Code (Maryland General Assembly)
- Maryland: Md. Code, Bus. Occ. & Prof. §§ 6-607, 6-101, 6-601, Maryland Code (Maryland General Assembly)
- Maryland: Md. Code, Bus. Occ. & Prof. §§ 6-607, 6-101, 6-601, Maryland Code (Maryland General Assembly)
- Massachusetts: M.G.L. c. 141, §§ 1A, 7, General Laws of Massachusetts (Massachusetts Legislature)
- Massachusetts: M.G.L. c. 141, §§ 1A, 7, General Laws of Massachusetts (Massachusetts Legislature)
- Michigan: MCL 339.5731, 339.5737, Michigan Compiled Laws (Michigan Legislature)
- Michigan: MCL 339.5731, 339.5737, Michigan Compiled Laws (Michigan Legislature)
- Minnesota: Minn. Stat. § 326B.33, Minnesota Statutes (Office of the Revisor of Statutes)
- Mississippi: Miss. Code §§ 73-59-3, 73-59-1, 31-3-15, 31-3-1, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Mississippi: Miss. Code §§ 73-59-3, 73-59-1, 31-3-15, 31-3-1, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Mississippi: Miss. Code §§ 73-59-3, 73-59-1, 31-3-15, 31-3-1, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Mississippi: Miss. Code §§ 73-59-3, 73-59-1, 31-3-15, 31-3-1, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Montana: Mont. Code Ann. §§ 37-68-301, 37-68-102, Montana Code Annotated (Montana Legislature)
- Montana: Mont. Code Ann. §§ 37-68-301, 37-68-102, Montana Code Annotated (Montana Legislature)
- Nebraska: Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 81-2108, 81-2106, 81-2102, Nebraska Revised Statutes (Nebraska Legislature)
- Nebraska: Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 81-2108, 81-2106, 81-2102, Nebraska Revised Statutes (Nebraska Legislature)
- Nebraska: Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 81-2108, 81-2106, 81-2102, Nebraska Revised Statutes (Nebraska Legislature)
- Nevada: NRS 624.700, 624.215, 624.031; NAC 624.200, Nevada Revised Statutes (Nevada Legislature)
- Nevada: NRS 624.700, 624.215, 624.031; NAC 624.200, Nevada Revised Statutes (Nevada Legislature)
- Nevada: NRS 624.700, 624.215, 624.031; NAC 624.200, Nevada Revised Statutes (Nevada Legislature)
- Nevada: NRS 624.700, 624.215, 624.031; NAC 624.200, Nevada Revised Statutes (Nevada Legislature)
- New Hampshire: RSA 319-C:1, 319-C:2, 319-C:3, New Hampshire Revised Statutes (General Court of New Hampshire)
- New Hampshire: RSA 319-C:1, 319-C:2, 319-C:3, New Hampshire Revised Statutes (General Court of New Hampshire)
- New Hampshire: RSA 319-C:1, 319-C:2, 319-C:3, New Hampshire Revised Statutes (General Court of New Hampshire)
- New Jersey: N.J.S.A. 45:5A-9, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- New Mexico: N.M. Stat. §§ 60-13-12, 60-13-3, 60-13-2, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- New Mexico: N.M. Stat. §§ 60-13-12, 60-13-3, 60-13-2, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- New Mexico: N.M. Stat. §§ 60-13-12, 60-13-3, 60-13-2, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- North Carolina: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 87-43, North Carolina General Statutes (North Carolina General Assembly)
- North Dakota: N.D. Cent. Code §§ 43-09-09, 43-09-10, 43-09-20, North Dakota Century Code (North Dakota Legislative Branch)
- Ohio: Ohio Rev. Code §§ 4740.01, 4740.13, 3781.06, Ohio Revised Code (Ohio Legislative Service Commission)
- Ohio: Ohio Rev. Code §§ 4740.01, 4740.13, 3781.06, Ohio Revised Code (Ohio Legislative Service Commission)
- Ohio: Ohio Rev. Code §§ 4740.01, 4740.13, 3781.06, Ohio Revised Code (Ohio Legislative Service Commission)
- Oklahoma: 59 O.S. §§ 1682, 1690, 1692, Oklahoma Statutes (Oklahoma State Courts Network)
- Oregon: ORS 479.540, 479.620, 479.630, Oregon Revised Statutes (Oregon State Legislature)
- Rhode Island: R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-6-2, Rhode Island General Laws (Rhode Island General Assembly)
- South Carolina: S.C. Code §§ 40-11-10, 40-11-30, 40-11-410, 40-59-20, 40-59-30, South Carolina Code of Laws (South Carolina Legislature)
- South Carolina: S.C. Code §§ 40-11-10, 40-11-30, 40-11-410, 40-59-20, 40-59-30, South Carolina Code of Laws (South Carolina Legislature)
- South Dakota: SDCL §§ 36-16-1, 36-16-2, 36-16-14, South Dakota Codified Laws (South Dakota Legislature)
- South Dakota: SDCL §§ 36-16-1, 36-16-2, 36-16-14, South Dakota Codified Laws (South Dakota Legislature)
- South Dakota: SDCL §§ 36-16-1, 36-16-2, 36-16-14, South Dakota Codified Laws (South Dakota Legislature)
- Tennessee: Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-102, 62-6-103, 62-6-111, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Tennessee: Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-102, 62-6-103, 62-6-111, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Tennessee: Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-102, 62-6-103, 62-6-111, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Texas: Tex. Occ. Code §§ 1305.001, 1305.002, 1305.151, Texas Statutes (Texas Legislature)
- Texas: Tex. Occ. Code §§ 1305.001, 1305.002, 1305.151, Texas Statutes (Texas Legislature)
- Texas: Tex. Occ. Code §§ 1305.001, 1305.002, 1305.151, Texas Statutes (Texas Legislature)
- Utah: Utah Code § 58-55-301, Utah Code (Utah Legislature)
- Vermont: 26 V.S.A. §§ 911, 910, Vermont Statutes (Vermont General Assembly)
- Vermont: 26 V.S.A. §§ 911, 910, Vermont Statutes (Vermont General Assembly)
- Virginia: Va. Code §§ 54.1-1129, 54.1-1128, 54.1-1100, Code of Virginia (Virginia General Assembly)
- Virginia: Va. Code §§ 54.1-1129, 54.1-1128, 54.1-1100, Code of Virginia (Virginia General Assembly)
- Virginia: Va. Code §§ 54.1-1129, 54.1-1128, 54.1-1100, Code of Virginia (Virginia General Assembly)
- Washington: RCW 19.28.161, 19.28.041, Revised Code of Washington (Washington State Legislature)
- Washington: RCW 19.28.161, 19.28.041, Revised Code of Washington (Washington State Legislature)
- West Virginia: W. Va. Code §§ 29-3B-2, 30-42-3, West Virginia Code (West Virginia Legislature)
- West Virginia: W. Va. Code §§ 29-3B-2, 30-42-3, West Virginia Code (West Virginia Legislature)
- Wisconsin: Wis. Stat. §§ 101.862, 101.01, Wisconsin Statutes (Wisconsin State Legislature)
- Wisconsin: Wis. Stat. §§ 101.862, 101.01, Wisconsin Statutes (Wisconsin State Legislature)
- Wyoming: Wyo. Stat. §§ 35-9-123, 35-9-122, 35-9-125, Wyoming Statutes (Wyoming Legislature)
- Alabama: Ala. Code §§ 34-37-6, 34-37-2, 34-37-15, Code of Alabama (Alabama Legislature)
- Alabama: Ala. Code §§ 34-37-6, 34-37-2, 34-37-15, Code of Alabama (Alabama Legislature)
- Alabama: Ala. Code §§ 34-37-6, 34-37-2, 34-37-15, Code of Alabama (Alabama Legislature)
- Alaska: Alaska Stat. §§ 18.62.070, 08.18.028, 08.18.171, 08.40.260, 08.40.390, Alaska Statutes (Alaska Legislature)
- Alaska: Alaska Stat. §§ 18.62.070, 08.18.028, 08.18.171, 08.40.260, 08.40.390, Alaska Statutes (Alaska Legislature)
- Alaska: Alaska Stat. §§ 18.62.070, 08.18.028, 08.18.171, 08.40.260, 08.40.390, Alaska Statutes (Alaska Legislature)
- Alaska: Alaska Stat. §§ 18.62.070, 08.18.028, 08.18.171, 08.40.260, 08.40.390, Alaska Statutes (Alaska Legislature)
- Arkansas: Ark. Code §§ 17-38-301, 17-38-302, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Arkansas: Ark. Code §§ 17-38-301, 17-38-302, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- California: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7058, 7000.5; Cal. Code Regs. tit. 16, § 832.36, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Delaware: 24 Del. C. §§ 1802, 1807, Delaware Code (Delaware General Assembly)
- Delaware: 24 Del. C. §§ 1802, 1807, Delaware Code (Delaware General Assembly)
- District of Columbia: D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.02, 47-2853.04, 47-2853.121, 47-2853.123, Code of the District of Columbia (DC Council)
- District of Columbia: D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.02, 47-2853.04, 47-2853.121, 47-2853.123, Code of the District of Columbia (DC Council)
- Florida: Fla. Stat. §§ 489.105, 489.113, Florida Statutes (The Florida Senate)
- Florida: Fla. Stat. §§ 489.105, 489.113, Florida Statutes (The Florida Senate)
- Georgia: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-14-2, 43-14-13, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Idaho: Idaho Code §§ 54-2602, 54-2610, Idaho Statutes (Idaho Legislature)
- Idaho: Idaho Code §§ 54-2602, 54-2610, Idaho Statutes (Idaho Legislature)
- Illinois: 225 ILCS 320/2, 320/3, 320/13.1, Illinois Compiled Statutes (Illinois General Assembly)
- Illinois: 225 ILCS 320/2, 320/3, 320/13.1, Illinois Compiled Statutes (Illinois General Assembly)
- Illinois: 225 ILCS 320/2, 320/3, 320/13.1, Illinois Compiled Statutes (Illinois General Assembly)
- Indiana: Ind. Code §§ 25-28.5-1-3, 25-28.5-1-11, 25-28.5-1-32, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Indiana: Ind. Code §§ 25-28.5-1-3, 25-28.5-1-11, 25-28.5-1-32, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Indiana: Ind. Code §§ 25-28.5-1-3, 25-28.5-1-11, 25-28.5-1-32, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Iowa: Iowa Code §§ 105.3, 105.10, 105.11, Iowa Code (Iowa Legislature)
- Iowa: Iowa Code §§ 105.3, 105.10, 105.11, Iowa Code (Iowa Legislature)
- Iowa: Iowa Code §§ 105.3, 105.10, 105.11, Iowa Code (Iowa Legislature)
- Kentucky: KRS 318.010, 318.015, 318.030, Kentucky Revised Statutes (Kentucky General Assembly)
- Kentucky: KRS 318.010, 318.015, 318.030, Kentucky Revised Statutes (Kentucky General Assembly)
- Kentucky: KRS 318.010, 318.015, 318.030, Kentucky Revised Statutes (Kentucky General Assembly)
- Louisiana: La. R.S. 37:1361, 37:1367, 37:1377, 37:2150.1, 37:2156.1, Louisiana Laws (Louisiana State Legislature)
- Louisiana: La. R.S. 37:1361, 37:1367, 37:1377, 37:2150.1, 37:2156.1, Louisiana Laws (Louisiana State Legislature)
- Louisiana: La. R.S. 37:1361, 37:1367, 37:1377, 37:2150.1, 37:2156.1, Louisiana Laws (Louisiana State Legislature)
- Maine: 32 M.R.S. §§ 3302, 3301, Maine Revised Statutes (Maine Legislature)
- Maine: 32 M.R.S. §§ 3302, 3301, Maine Revised Statutes (Maine Legislature)
- Maryland: Md. Code, Bus. Occ. & Prof. §§ 12-301, 12-101, 12-103, Maryland Code (Maryland General Assembly)
- Maryland: Md. Code, Bus. Occ. & Prof. §§ 12-301, 12-101, 12-103, Maryland Code (Maryland General Assembly)
- Maryland: Md. Code, Bus. Occ. & Prof. §§ 12-301, 12-101, 12-103, Maryland Code (Maryland General Assembly)
- Massachusetts: M.G.L. c. 142, § 3, General Laws of Massachusetts (Massachusetts Legislature)
- Michigan: MCL 339.6107, 339.6111, Michigan Compiled Laws (Michigan Legislature)
- Michigan: MCL 339.6107, 339.6111, Michigan Compiled Laws (Michigan Legislature)
- Minnesota: Minn. Stat. §§ 326B.46, 326B.01, Minnesota Statutes (Office of the Revisor of Statutes)
- Minnesota: Minn. Stat. §§ 326B.46, 326B.01, Minnesota Statutes (Office of the Revisor of Statutes)
- Montana: Mont. Code Ann. §§ 37-69-301, 37-69-101, Montana Code Annotated (Montana Legislature)
- Montana: Mont. Code Ann. §§ 37-69-301, 37-69-101, Montana Code Annotated (Montana Legislature)
- Nevada: NRS 624.700, 624.215, 624.031; NAC 624.190, Nevada Revised Statutes (Nevada Legislature)
- New Hampshire: RSA 153:29, 153:29-a, 153:27, 153:36, 310:13, New Hampshire Revised Statutes (General Court of New Hampshire)
- New Hampshire: RSA 153:29, 153:29-a, 153:27, 153:36, 310:13, New Hampshire Revised Statutes (General Court of New Hampshire)
- New Hampshire: RSA 153:29, 153:29-a, 153:27, 153:36, 310:13, New Hampshire Revised Statutes (General Court of New Hampshire)
- New Hampshire: RSA 153:29, 153:29-a, 153:27, 153:36, 310:13, New Hampshire Revised Statutes (General Court of New Hampshire)
- New Hampshire: RSA 153:29, 153:29-a, 153:27, 153:36, 310:13, New Hampshire Revised Statutes (General Court of New Hampshire)
- New Jersey: N.J.S.A. 45:14C-12.3, 45:14C-2, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- New Jersey: N.J.S.A. 45:14C-12.3, 45:14C-2, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- North Carolina: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 87-21, North Carolina General Statutes (North Carolina General Assembly)
- North Dakota: N.D. Cent. Code §§ 43-18-10, 43-18-11, 43-18-23, North Dakota Century Code (North Dakota Legislative Branch)
- Oregon: ORS 447.040, 447.060, 693.030, 693.060, Oregon Revised Statutes (Oregon State Legislature)
- Oregon: ORS 447.040, 447.060, 693.030, 693.060, Oregon Revised Statutes (Oregon State Legislature)
- Rhode Island: R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-20-8, Rhode Island General Laws (Rhode Island General Assembly)
- South Dakota: SDCL §§ 36-25-17, 36-25-19, South Dakota Codified Laws (South Dakota Legislature)
- South Dakota: SDCL §§ 36-25-17, 36-25-19, South Dakota Codified Laws (South Dakota Legislature)
- Tennessee: Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-102, 62-6-103, 62-6-402, 62-6-404, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Tennessee: Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-102, 62-6-103, 62-6-402, 62-6-404, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Texas: Tex. Occ. Code §§ 1301.001, 1301.002, 1301.351, Texas Statutes (Texas Legislature)
- Texas: Tex. Occ. Code §§ 1301.001, 1301.002, 1301.351, Texas Statutes (Texas Legislature)
- Texas: Tex. Occ. Code §§ 1301.001, 1301.002, 1301.351, Texas Statutes (Texas Legislature)
- Vermont: 26 V.S.A. §§ 2198, 2197, Vermont Statutes (Vermont General Assembly)
- Vermont: 26 V.S.A. §§ 2198, 2197, Vermont Statutes (Vermont General Assembly)
- Washington: RCW 18.106.020, Revised Code of Washington (Washington State Legislature)
- West Virginia: W. Va. Code § 21-14-3, West Virginia Code (West Virginia Legislature)
- Wisconsin: Wis. Stat. §§ 145.06, 145.01, Wisconsin Statutes (Wisconsin State Legislature)
- Wisconsin: Wis. Stat. §§ 145.06, 145.01, Wisconsin Statutes (Wisconsin State Legislature)
- Alabama: Ala. Code §§ 34-31-24, 34-31-18, 34-31-28, Code of Alabama (Alabama Legislature)
- Alabama: Ala. Code §§ 34-31-24, 34-31-18, 34-31-28, Code of Alabama (Alabama Legislature)
- Alabama: Ala. Code §§ 34-31-24, 34-31-18, 34-31-28, Code of Alabama (Alabama Legislature)
- Arkansas: Ark. Code §§ 17-33-301, 17-33-101, 17-33-102, 17-33-201, 17-33-202, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Arkansas: Ark. Code §§ 17-33-301, 17-33-101, 17-33-102, 17-33-201, 17-33-202, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Arkansas: Ark. Code §§ 17-33-301, 17-33-101, 17-33-102, 17-33-201, 17-33-202, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Arkansas: Ark. Code §§ 17-33-301, 17-33-101, 17-33-102, 17-33-201, 17-33-202, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Arkansas: Ark. Code §§ 17-33-301, 17-33-101, 17-33-102, 17-33-201, 17-33-202, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- California: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7058, 7000.5; Cal. Code Regs. tit. 16, § 832.20, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Delaware: 24 Del. C. §§ 1802, 1820, Delaware Code (Delaware General Assembly)
- District of Columbia: D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.02, 47-2853.04, 47-2853.201, 47-2853.203, Code of the District of Columbia (DC Council)
- District of Columbia: D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.02, 47-2853.04, 47-2853.201, 47-2853.203, Code of the District of Columbia (DC Council)
- Georgia: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-14-2, 43-14-14, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Idaho: Idaho Code §§ 54-5002, 54-5003, 54-5008, Idaho Statutes (Idaho Legislature)
- Idaho: Idaho Code §§ 54-5002, 54-5003, 54-5008, Idaho Statutes (Idaho Legislature)
- Idaho: Idaho Code §§ 54-5002, 54-5003, 54-5008, Idaho Statutes (Idaho Legislature)
- Kentucky: KRS 198B.650, 198B.656, 198B.674, Kentucky Revised Statutes (Kentucky General Assembly)
- Kentucky: KRS 198B.650, 198B.656, 198B.674, Kentucky Revised Statutes (Kentucky General Assembly)
- Kentucky: KRS 198B.650, 198B.656, 198B.674, Kentucky Revised Statutes (Kentucky General Assembly)
- Maine: 32 M.R.S. § 18102, Maine Revised Statutes (Maine Legislature)
- Maryland: Md. Code, Bus. Reg. §§ 9A-301, 9A-101, 9A-302, Maryland Code (Maryland General Assembly)
- Maryland: Md. Code, Bus. Reg. §§ 9A-301, 9A-101, 9A-302, Maryland Code (Maryland General Assembly)
- Maryland: Md. Code, Bus. Reg. §§ 9A-301, 9A-101, 9A-302, Maryland Code (Maryland General Assembly)
- Massachusetts: M.G.L. c. 146, §§ 84, 81, 86; c. 112, § 238, General Laws of Massachusetts (Massachusetts Legislature)
- Massachusetts: M.G.L. c. 146, §§ 84, 81, 86; c. 112, § 238, General Laws of Massachusetts (Massachusetts Legislature)
- Massachusetts: M.G.L. c. 146, §§ 84, 81, 86; c. 112, § 238, General Laws of Massachusetts (Massachusetts Legislature)
- Massachusetts: M.G.L. c. 146, §§ 84, 81, 86; c. 112, § 238, General Laws of Massachusetts (Massachusetts Legislature)
- Michigan: MCL 339.5809, 339.5807, 339.5811, 339.5819, Michigan Compiled Laws (Michigan Legislature)
- Michigan: MCL 339.5809, 339.5807, 339.5811, 339.5819, Michigan Compiled Laws (Michigan Legislature)
- Michigan: MCL 339.5809, 339.5807, 339.5811, 339.5819, Michigan Compiled Laws (Michigan Legislature)
- Michigan: MCL 339.5809, 339.5807, 339.5811, 339.5819, Michigan Compiled Laws (Michigan Legislature)
- Nevada: NRS 624.700, 624.215, 624.031; NAC 624.380, Nevada Revised Statutes (Nevada Legislature)
- New Jersey: N.J.S.A. 45:16A-6, 45:16A-7, 45:16A-13, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- New Jersey: N.J.S.A. 45:16A-6, 45:16A-7, 45:16A-13, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- New Jersey: N.J.S.A. 45:16A-6, 45:16A-7, 45:16A-13, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Rhode Island: R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 28-27-1, 28-27-4, 28-27-5, Rhode Island General Laws (Rhode Island General Assembly)
- Rhode Island: R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 28-27-1, 28-27-4, 28-27-5, Rhode Island General Laws (Rhode Island General Assembly)
- Rhode Island: R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 28-27-1, 28-27-4, 28-27-5, Rhode Island General Laws (Rhode Island General Assembly)
- Tennessee: Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-102, 62-6-103, 62-6-112, 62-6-503; Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0680-01-.16, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Tennessee: Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-102, 62-6-103, 62-6-112, 62-6-503; Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0680-01-.16, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Tennessee: Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-102, 62-6-103, 62-6-112, 62-6-503; Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0680-01-.16, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Texas: Tex. Occ. Code §§ 1302.002, 1302.251, 1302.252, Texas Statutes (Texas Legislature)
- Texas: Tex. Occ. Code §§ 1302.002, 1302.251, 1302.252, Texas Statutes (Texas Legislature)
- Texas: Tex. Occ. Code §§ 1302.002, 1302.251, 1302.252, Texas Statutes (Texas Legislature)
- Utah: Utah Code §§ 58-55-301, 58-55-305, 58-55-102, Utah Code (Utah Legislature)
- Utah: Utah Code §§ 58-55-301, 58-55-305, 58-55-102, Utah Code (Utah Legislature)
- Vermont: 26 V.S.A. §§ 2197, 2172, 2198, Vermont Statutes (Vermont General Assembly)
- West Virginia: W. Va. Code §§ 21-16-3, 30-42-3, West Virginia Code (West Virginia Legislature)
- Alabama: Ala. Code §§ 34-8-1, 34-8-6, 34-8-7, Code of Alabama (Alabama Legislature)
- Alabama: Ala. Code §§ 34-8-1, 34-8-6, 34-8-7, Code of Alabama (Alabama Legislature)
- Alabama: Ala. Code §§ 34-8-1, 34-8-6, 34-8-7, Code of Alabama (Alabama Legislature)
- Alaska: Alaska Stat. §§ 08.18.011, 08.18.025, 08.18.171, 08.18.161, Alaska Statutes (Alaska Legislature)
- Alaska: Alaska Stat. §§ 08.18.011, 08.18.025, 08.18.171, 08.18.161, Alaska Statutes (Alaska Legislature)
- Arizona: A.R.S. §§ 32-1151, 32-1101, 32-1102, 32-1121; Ariz. Admin. Code R4-9-103, Arizona Revised Statutes (Arizona Legislature)
- Arizona: A.R.S. §§ 32-1151, 32-1101, 32-1102, 32-1121; Ariz. Admin. Code R4-9-103, Arizona Revised Statutes (Arizona Legislature)
- Arkansas: Ark. Code §§ 17-25-101, 17-25-103, 17-25-505, 17-25-513, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Arkansas: Ark. Code §§ 17-25-101, 17-25-103, 17-25-505, 17-25-513, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Arkansas: Ark. Code §§ 17-25-101, 17-25-103, 17-25-505, 17-25-513, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Arkansas: Ark. Code §§ 17-25-101, 17-25-103, 17-25-505, 17-25-513, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- California: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7026, 7048, 7055, 7057, 7057.5, 7150.1, 7000.5, California Codes (California Legislative Information)
- California: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7026, 7048, 7055, 7057, 7057.5, 7150.1, 7000.5, California Codes (California Legislative Information)
- California: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7026, 7048, 7055, 7057, 7057.5, 7150.1, 7000.5, California Codes (California Legislative Information)
- California: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7026, 7048, 7055, 7057, 7057.5, 7150.1, 7000.5, California Codes (California Legislative Information)
- California: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7026, 7048, 7055, 7057, 7057.5, 7150.1, 7000.5, California Codes (California Legislative Information)
- California: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 7028, 7026, 7048, 7055, 7057, 7057.5, 7150.1, 7000.5, California Codes (California Legislative Information)
- Connecticut: Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 20-417a, 20-417b, 20-341gg, Connecticut General Statutes (Connecticut General Assembly)
- Connecticut: Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 20-417a, 20-417b, 20-341gg, Connecticut General Statutes (Connecticut General Assembly)
- Connecticut: Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 20-417a, 20-417b, 20-341gg, Connecticut General Statutes (Connecticut General Assembly)
- Delaware: 30 Del. C. §§ 2501, 2502; 19 Del. C. §§ 3602, 3604, 3605, Delaware Code (Delaware General Assembly)
- Delaware: 30 Del. C. §§ 2501, 2502; 19 Del. C. §§ 3602, 3604, 3605, Delaware Code (Delaware General Assembly)
- Delaware: 30 Del. C. §§ 2501, 2502; 19 Del. C. §§ 3602, 3604, 3605, Delaware Code (Delaware General Assembly)
- Delaware: 30 Del. C. §§ 2501, 2502; 19 Del. C. §§ 3602, 3604, 3605, Delaware Code (Delaware General Assembly)
- Delaware: 30 Del. C. §§ 2501, 2502; 19 Del. C. §§ 3602, 3604, 3605, Delaware Code (Delaware General Assembly)
- District of Columbia: 17 DCMR §§ 3900, 3901, 3999, Code of the District of Columbia (DC Council)
- District of Columbia: 17 DCMR §§ 3900, 3901, 3999, Code of the District of Columbia (DC Council)
- District of Columbia: 17 DCMR §§ 3900, 3901, 3999, Code of the District of Columbia (DC Council)
- Florida: Fla. Stat. §§ 489.103, 489.105, 489.113, Florida Statutes (The Florida Senate)
- Georgia: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-41-2, 43-41-17, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Georgia: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-41-2, 43-41-17, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Hawaii: Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 444-2, 444-7, 444-9, 444-25.5, Hawaii Revised Statutes (Hawaii State Legislature)
- Hawaii: Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 444-2, 444-7, 444-9, 444-25.5, Hawaii Revised Statutes (Hawaii State Legislature)
- Idaho: Idaho Code §§ 54-5203, 54-5204, 54-5205, 54-5208, Idaho Statutes (Idaho Legislature)
- Idaho: Idaho Code §§ 54-5203, 54-5204, 54-5205, 54-5208, Idaho Statutes (Idaho Legislature)
- Idaho: Idaho Code §§ 54-5203, 54-5204, 54-5205, 54-5208, Idaho Statutes (Idaho Legislature)
- Idaho: Idaho Code §§ 54-5203, 54-5204, 54-5205, 54-5208, Idaho Statutes (Idaho Legislature)
- Iowa: Iowa Code §§ 91C.1, 91C.2, Iowa Code (Iowa Legislature)
- Iowa: Iowa Code §§ 91C.1, 91C.2, Iowa Code (Iowa Legislature)
- Louisiana: La. R.S. 37:2150.1, 37:2157, 37:2160, 37:2163, Louisiana Laws (Louisiana State Legislature)
- Maryland: Md. Code, Bus. Reg. §§ 4.5-301, 4.5-101, 4.5-501, Maryland Code (Maryland General Assembly)
- Maryland: Md. Code, Bus. Reg. §§ 4.5-301, 4.5-101, 4.5-501, Maryland Code (Maryland General Assembly)
- Maryland: Md. Code, Bus. Reg. §§ 4.5-301, 4.5-101, 4.5-501, Maryland Code (Maryland General Assembly)
- Massachusetts: 780 CMR 110.R5.1; M.G.L. c. 143, § 94, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Massachusetts: 780 CMR 110.R5.1; M.G.L. c. 143, § 94, General Laws of Massachusetts (Massachusetts Legislature)
- Michigan: MCL 339.601, 339.2401, 339.2403, Michigan Compiled Laws (Michigan Legislature)
- Michigan: MCL 339.601, 339.2401, 339.2403, Michigan Compiled Laws (Michigan Legislature)
- Michigan: MCL 339.601, 339.2401, 339.2403, Michigan Compiled Laws (Michigan Legislature)
- Minnesota: Minn. Stat. §§ 326B.805, 326B.802, Minnesota Statutes (Office of the Revisor of Statutes)
- Minnesota: Minn. Stat. §§ 326B.805, 326B.802, Minnesota Statutes (Office of the Revisor of Statutes)
- Mississippi: Miss. Code §§ 73-59-3, 73-59-1, 73-59-15, 31-3-15, 31-3-1, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Montana: Mont. Code Ann. §§ 37-45-201, 37-45-102, 37-45-104, Montana Code Annotated (Montana Legislature)
- Montana: Mont. Code Ann. §§ 37-45-201, 37-45-102, 37-45-104, Montana Code Annotated (Montana Legislature)
- Montana: Mont. Code Ann. §§ 37-45-201, 37-45-102, 37-45-104, Montana Code Annotated (Montana Legislature)
- Nebraska: Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 48-2104, 48-2103, 48-2105, Nebraska Revised Statutes (Nebraska Legislature)
- Nebraska: Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 48-2104, 48-2103, 48-2105, Nebraska Revised Statutes (Nebraska Legislature)
- Nebraska: Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 48-2104, 48-2103, 48-2105, Nebraska Revised Statutes (Nebraska Legislature)
- Nevada: NRS 624.700, 624.020, 624.215, 624.031; NAC 624.160, Nevada Revised Statutes (Nevada Legislature)
- Nevada: NRS 624.700, 624.020, 624.215, 624.031; NAC 624.160, Nevada Revised Statutes (Nevada Legislature)
- New Jersey: N.J.S.A. 46:3B-5, 46:3B-2, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- New Jersey: N.J.S.A. 46:3B-5, 46:3B-2, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- North Carolina: N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 87-1, 87-10, 87-13, North Carolina General Statutes (North Carolina General Assembly)
- North Carolina: N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 87-1, 87-10, 87-13, North Carolina General Statutes (North Carolina General Assembly)
- North Carolina: N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 87-1, 87-10, 87-13, North Carolina General Statutes (North Carolina General Assembly)
- North Dakota: N.D. Cent. Code §§ 43-07-01, 43-07-02, 43-07-07, North Dakota Century Code (North Dakota Legislative Branch)
- Oregon: ORS 701.005, 701.010, 701.021, Oregon Revised Statutes (Oregon State Legislature)
- Rhode Island: R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 5-65-1, 5-65-3, Rhode Island General Laws (Rhode Island General Assembly)
- Rhode Island: R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 5-65-1, 5-65-3, Rhode Island General Laws (Rhode Island General Assembly)
- Vermont: 26 V.S.A. §§ 5501, 5502, Vermont Statutes (Vermont General Assembly)
- Vermont: 26 V.S.A. §§ 5501, 5502, Vermont Statutes (Vermont General Assembly)
- Virginia: Va. Code §§ 54.1-1103, 54.1-1100, Code of Virginia (Virginia General Assembly)
- Washington: RCW 18.27.020, 18.27.010, Revised Code of Washington (Washington State Legislature)
- Washington: RCW 18.27.020, 18.27.010, Revised Code of Washington (Washington State Legislature)
- West Virginia: W. Va. Code §§ 30-42-6, 30-42-3, West Virginia Code (West Virginia Legislature)
- Wisconsin: Wis. Stat. §§ 101.654, 101.61, Wisconsin Statutes (Wisconsin State Legislature)
- Wisconsin: Wis. Stat. §§ 101.654, 101.61, Wisconsin Statutes (Wisconsin State Legislature)
- Alabama: Ala. Code §§ 34-14A-2, 34-14A-5, Code of Alabama (Alabama Legislature)
- Alabama: Ala. Code §§ 34-14A-2, 34-14A-5, Code of Alabama (Alabama Legislature)
- Arkansas: Ark. Code §§ 17-25-505, 17-25-502, 17-25-513, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Connecticut: Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 20-419, 20-420, 20-427, 20-428, Connecticut General Statutes (Connecticut General Assembly)
- Connecticut: Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 20-419, 20-420, 20-427, 20-428, Connecticut General Statutes (Connecticut General Assembly)
- Connecticut: Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 20-419, 20-420, 20-427, 20-428, Connecticut General Statutes (Connecticut General Assembly)
- Connecticut: Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 20-419, 20-420, 20-427, 20-428, Connecticut General Statutes (Connecticut General Assembly)
- District of Columbia: 16 DCMR §§ 800, 801, 899; 17 DCMR § 3900, Code of the District of Columbia (DC Council)
- District of Columbia: 16 DCMR §§ 800, 801, 899; 17 DCMR § 3900, Code of the District of Columbia (DC Council)
- District of Columbia: 16 DCMR §§ 800, 801, 899; 17 DCMR § 3900, Code of the District of Columbia (DC Council)
- Maryland: Md. Code, Bus. Reg. §§ 8-301, 8-101, Maryland Code (Maryland General Assembly)
- Maryland: Md. Code, Bus. Reg. §§ 8-301, 8-101, Maryland Code (Maryland General Assembly)
- Massachusetts: M.G.L. c. 142A, §§ 2, 9, General Laws of Massachusetts (Massachusetts Legislature)
- Massachusetts: M.G.L. c. 142A, §§ 2, 9, General Laws of Massachusetts (Massachusetts Legislature)
- New Jersey: N.J.S.A. 56:8-138, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Pennsylvania: 73 P.S. §§ 517.2, 517.3, Pennsylvania Statutes (Pennsylvania General Assembly)
- Tennessee: Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-501, 62-6-502, 62-6-505, 62-6-516, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Tennessee: Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-501, 62-6-502, 62-6-505, 62-6-516, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Tennessee: Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-501, 62-6-502, 62-6-505, 62-6-516, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
- Tennessee: Tenn. Code §§ 62-6-501, 62-6-502, 62-6-505, 62-6-516, Justia (unofficial copy of the code)
How Seayora helps
License verification: A contractor on Seayora keeps each license with its issuing state and expiry date, and is warned before one lapses.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Landlord-tenant law varies by state and city and changes often, so check the current rule for your property and talk to an attorney before acting on a dispute.
How we write and check these guides: editorial standards.
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