Do You Need a Contractor License in Tennessee?

Contractor License in Tennessee

State license

The short version

Tennessee issues contractor credentials at the state level through the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors. In most cases you need to be licensed or registered with the state before you bid work, sign contracts, or pull permits. Trade licenses (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) are usually separate.

Main agency	Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors
Official site	https://www.tn.gov/commerce
Licensing level	State license

Requirements, thresholds, and fees change, and local rules can be stricter than the state. Always confirm directly with the agency above and your local building department before you bid or pull a permit. This page is a starting point, not legal advice.

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Getting licensed in Tennessee: the usual steps

Confirm which classification you need (general, residential, or a specific trade).
Check experience and exam requirements with the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors.
Carry the required general liability and, where required, workers comp insurance.
Register your business entity and secure any bond the state asks for.
Apply, pass any required exam, and keep the license renewed on schedule.

Insurance and a certificate of insurance (COI) are almost always part of it. You can track your own and your subs' COI dates with the free Krewbase COI tracker.