What states do not require a general contractor license?

Several states have no statewide general contractor license requirement, including Texas, Louisiana, and a few others — though local jurisdictions in these states often require registration or permits. Even in states without a statewide GC license, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC contractors must hold state trade licenses. Always check local city and county requirements.

What does it mean if a contractor's license is 'inactive' vs. 'expired'?

An inactive license means the contractor has voluntarily placed it on hold — they are not authorized to contract for work while inactive. An expired license means it lapsed and has not been renewed. Both statuses mean the contractor cannot legally take on licensed work in that state. Ask for a license that shows 'active' or 'current' status.

Can I hire an unlicensed contractor to save money?

It is rarely worth the risk. An unlicensed contractor cannot pull permits, which means unpermitted work on your property. If an unlicensed worker is injured on your job, you may be liable for their medical costs. And you have no recourse through the state licensing board if the work is defective. The money saved upfront is rarely worth these risks.

How to Check a Contractor's License: State-by-State Guide

May 23, 2026 · Guide · 3 min read

Why License Verification Is Non-Negotiable

A contractor's license is the single most important credential to verify before hiring. It proves the contractor has passed state-required knowledge tests, carries the required insurance and bond, and is subject to disciplinary action by the state if they perform defective work or commit fraud. A license check takes five minutes. The consequences of skipping it can take years to resolve.

How to Check a Contractor's License: The Process

Step 1: Ask the Contractor for Their License Number

Any legitimate licensed contractor will know their license number immediately. If a contractor says they're licensed but can't provide the number during your first conversation, that's a red flag.

Step 2: Find Your State's Licensing Board

Each state maintains an online license lookup database. Here are the databases for major states:

California: CSLB (Contractors State License Board) — cslb.ca.gov
Florida: DBPR (Department of Business and Professional Regulation) — myfloridalicense.com
New York: Department of State — dos.ny.gov
Georgia: Secretary of State — verify.sos.ga.gov
Illinois: IDFPR — idfpr.illinois.gov
Arizona: ROC (Registrar of Contractors) — roc.az.gov
North Carolina: NCLBGC — nclbgc.org
Virginia: DPOR — dpor.virginia.gov

For states without a statewide GC license (Texas, Louisiana), check with the city or county building department for local registration requirements.

Step 3: Search by License Number and Cross-Check the Name

Enter the license number. Confirm:

The name on the license matches the contractor or business entity you're contracting with
The license is active — not expired, suspended, or inactive
The license classification covers your type of project (B-General, C-Specialty, Residential, Commercial, etc.)
The expiration date is in the future

Step 4: Check for Disciplinary Actions and Complaints

The license database usually shows whether the contractor has faced disciplinary actions, formal complaints, bond claims, or citations. A complaint or two on a long license history may be normal for a busy contractor — but multiple complaints, suspended licenses, or bond claims warrant serious concern.

Step 5: Verify the Bond and Insurance on File

Many licensing boards list the contractor's bond amount and insurance carrier. Note these, then separately call the insurance company to confirm the policy is currently active and names you as an additional insured (or that you can request this).

Beyond the License: What Else to Check

BBB record: Search the contractor's business name at bbb.org for complaints and rating
Court records: In many states you can search civil court records online — look for construction-related lawsuits
Local building department: Ask if the contractor pulls permits regularly in your area and whether they've had inspection failures
Secretary of State: Verify the contractor's business entity is in good standing

Our contractor directory includes verified, licensed professionals in cities across the country — start your search with contractors who have passed our basic verification checks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What states do not require a general contractor license?: Several states have no statewide general contractor license requirement, including Texas, Louisiana, and a few others — though local jurisdictions in these states often require registration or permits. Even in states without a statewide GC license, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC contractors must hold state trade licenses. Always check local city and county requirements.
What does it mean if a contractor's license is 'inactive' vs. 'expired'?: An inactive license means the contractor has voluntarily placed it on hold — they are not authorized to contract for work while inactive. An expired license means it lapsed and has not been renewed. Both statuses mean the contractor cannot legally take on licensed work in that state. Ask for a license that shows 'active' or 'current' status.
Can I hire an unlicensed contractor to save money?: It is rarely worth the risk. An unlicensed contractor cannot pull permits, which means unpermitted work on your property. If an unlicensed worker is injured on your job, you may be liable for their medical costs. And you have no recourse through the state licensing board if the work is defective. The money saved upfront is rarely worth these risks.