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In Nevada, contractors can choose between pursuing the B-7 residential remodeling license and the B-7 restricted license. While similar, there are important differences between them.

Both open the door to residential remodeling, but the specific project types you can take will depend on your license. Here's what you need to know about how these licenses differ, including in the exams and experience you'll need to obtain them.

What Is the Nevada B-7 Residential License?

The Nevada B-7 residential remodeling license is for contractors who remodel and improve existing structures. That includes a variety of properties, such as single-family homes and single-family residential units in buildings three stories or shorter.

However, it's important to note that the B-7 residential remodeling license does not let contractors carry out home additions that increase existing enclosed space.

What Is the Nevada B-7 Restricted License?

The B-7 restricted license is similar, allowing contractors to carry out remodeling and improvement of existing residential structures. It limits the scope of the projects contractors can take on, though, and does not allow for home additions.

Contractors with B-7 restricted licenses are limited to projects of $7,000 or less. That total includes both labor and materials. You should know that simply splitting projects into smaller contracts to avoid the limit is not allowed and could bring serious consequences.

Exams and Experience Required for Licensing

To receive a B-7 residential remodeling license, applicants must pass the B-7 Residential Remodeling Exam and the Nevada Business and Law (CMS) Exam. Applicants must also have four years of relevant experience within the last 10 years.

On the other hand, the B-7 restricted license only requires the CMS Exam, and you only need two years of relevant work experience.

Maintaining Your B-7 License

The B-7 residential remodeling license and B-7 restricted license are both valid for two years. You'll need to renew on time to keep your active status and continue taking on remodeling work. Late renewals can disrupt projects and contracts, impacting your business.

It's also important that you stay within the approved scope of work for your license. That means following the $7,000 project limit for the restricted license. If you're found to be going over that limit without an unrestricted license, then you risk losing your license.

Choosing the Right Nevada B-7 License

The B-7 restricted license is a good fit for contractors who plan on taking on smaller jobs, typically non-structural remodeling. It provides an accessible path for contractors to get started without the same level of qualification required for larger projects. Contractors can always choose to pursue the full license at a later date.

Contractors who want to avoid any limitations in the work they do should choose the full B-7 residential remodeling license. While there is a higher barrier to entry, it opens the door to a wider range of projects, including lucrative remodels with higher price tags.

Level Up Your Career Now

Whether you're going for the residential remodeling or restricted B-7 license, prepare for the next step with help from RocketCert. With convenient access to education on nearly any device, any time, you can give yourself the best chance to ace your exam.

Contact us to learn more about obtaining your Nevada B-7 license, or sign up for an online, self-paced preparation course with us today.