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Contractors in Tennessee need a license to bid, negotiate, and contract on construction projects of $25,000 or more. Those who intend to perform both commercial and industrial construction work can pursue the Tennessee commercial/industrial contractor (BC-B,C) license to gain authorization for both categories. 

What Is the BC-B,C License Classification? 

This license includes both the BC-B and BC-C classifications. BC-B covers work on commercial properties for both public and business use. Offices, retail, schools, warehouses, and larger multifamily properties all fall under this umbrella. You’ll be able to complete new construction, repairs, alterations, and related work. 

The BC-C classification includes work on industrial structures, such as factories and plants used in manufacturing, processing, and other industrial activities. By combining both of these classifications, contractors holding a BC-B,C license can take on a wide range of projects. 

Who Requires a Commercial/Industrial Contractor License? 

If you’re handling industrial or commercial construction projects as a contractor or construction manager, then you’ll need this license for projects of $25,000 or more. This can also apply to subcontractors if their individual responsibilities within a project exceed that limit. 

Businesses applying for a license must choose one or more qualifying agents from their owners, officers, or full-time employees. For the business to qualify for a license, the agent must pass the required exams. It is also possible to nominate two separate agents to pass each individual exam for licensing purposes. 

Taking Your Tennessee Commercial/Industrial Contractor Exams 

There are two required exams for this license: the Tennessee Contractor Business and Law Exam and the BC-B,C Commercial/Industrial Contractor exam. The business and law exam consists of 50 questions, while the trade exam has 100. Each of these open-book exams takes place over two hours. 

During the BC-B,C exam, you’ll answer questions related to codes, sitework, estimates, project management, contract administration, and OSHA compliance. You’ll also have to demonstrate your knowledge in specific areas like masonry, concrete, foundations, roofing, structural steel, and building systems. 

Applying for Your Tennessee BC-B,C License 

If you’re applying as a corporation or LLC, you must first register with the Tennessee Secretary of State. You can then submit your application through the state’s CORE system. You’ll have to include your exam results, financial documentation, proof of insurance, and other records with your application. 

Your license will come with a specific monetary limit for the maximum value of individual projects you can take on. This is usually calculated as ten times the lesser of working capital or net worth. The board will also consider experience and other factors when making its decision. 

If you’re seeking a limit of $3 million or less, then a reviewed financial statement is typically sufficient. However, higher limits require a formally audited statement instead. 

Taking the First Step Toward Your License 

Obtaining your Tennessee contractor’s license requires passing the associated exams. You don’t want to find yourself struggling when it comes time to take them. Instead, prepare yourself with online resources from RocketCert. Get started today and put your best foot forward while pursuing your license.