What license do I need?

Tennessee has one of the most comprehensive assortments of contractor’s licenses in the United States. Currently, they offer 11 different types of contractor’s licenses, depending on the scope of work that an individual will be performing.

Many license types feature an introductory or limited license and a master’s or unlimited variant. A limited license contains more restrictions on the size of job that may be performed, but often requires fewer prerequisites.

Having the right license is vital to staying in compliance with state and local laws. Licensure is required to pull a permit, bid on a job, or complete work in a designated field. Failing to follow the procedures set forth by Tennessee can result in hefty fines and can even be considered to be a criminal offense in some instances.

Fortunately, Tennessee has made the process of obtaining licensure simple and efficient. It is important to understand what licenses the state offers so that you can properly prepare for the exam.

Residential Contractors

Currently, Tennessee offers several residential contractor’s licenses. The most basic is simply referred to as a restricted residential contractor license or BC-A/r. This license allows you to work on single-family dwellings. The limit for this license is $125,000, but it requires no exam.

The next level of residential licensing is referred to as a residential contractor license or BC-A. You can work on residential projects up to three stories in height. This includes single-family and multi-family dwellings.

The state also offers a residential/small commercial contractor license, which is also referred to as a BC-A/B sm license. It provides the same residential allowances as the general license, but also authorizes you to work on commercial projects valued at under $750,000.

Commercial Contractors

Tennessee’s commercial contractor licenses are divided into two types. The first is referred to as a BC-B license. With it, you can participate in projects that are taller than three stories and have up to $1.5 million in value.

The second is known as a Residential/Commercial/Industrial or BC license and it is one of the most versatile licenses around. Tennessee considers this to be an unlimited contractor’s license. However, certain items of the projects will need to be subbed out when the value exceeds $25,000. For example, an HVAC system that costs more than that amount will require another license or subcontracting.

Electrical & Plumbing Contractors

Tennessee issues electrical and plumbing licenses in similar formats. The more basic license for either specialty is known as a limited license. With this license, you could perform the specified work as long as the value of the project was under $25,000. However, a few select counties place additional restrictions on limited plumbing and electrical licenses.

A general electrical contractor or plumbing contractor license includes no restrictions. You can work on any project in the specified field, regardless of the total value of the project.

Mechanical Contractor

A mechanical or CMC contractor can work on any HVAC system. In addition, they can perform work on piping, plumbing, boilers, and even fire sprinkler systems. This is one of the most comprehensive contractor’s licenses available.

HVAC/R Contractor

An HVAC/R or CMC-C contractor’s license permits you to perform work on HVAC and refrigeration systems. This also includes geothermal projects. There are no limitations based on project value or the intended application of the system.

No matter which Tennessee contractor’s license you need, proper preparation is vital to your success. In the past, this meant going to in-person classes and working through bland study materials.

Business Law

While the business law exam does not grant you a standalone license, taking it is a must. This exam is required as a prerequisite for almost every contractor’s license offered by the state. As the name implies, the exam covers key aspects of business law. This includes filing taxes and preparing contracts.  

RocketCert can provide a better way. We offer virtual self-paced training courses and engaging test prep to help you obtain your license. Our products are even backed by a “No Pass, No Pay” promise!