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Contractor License in Kentucky

Trade-specific

Kentucky has no statewide general contractor license; GCs are regulated locally by cities and counties. The state (Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction, DHBC) licenses specific trades such as electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection.

Quick facts

ExperienceTrade-specific for state licenses (e.g., journeyman experience before master). None statewide for GCs.
ExamYes for state trade licenses (electrical, HVAC, plumbing). Not statewide for general contractors.
BondSet locally for GCs. No statewide GC bond.
InsuranceState master HVAC/electrical licenses require proof of insurance. GC insurance set locally (GL/WC common).
FeesTrade renewal examples: HVAC journeyman $50, HVAC master $250, electrical contractor $200. GC fees set locally.
RenewalState trade licenses renew (HVAC/electrical) with 6 hours/year continuing education per 815 KAR 2:010; filed by last day of licensee's birth month. GC renewal set locally.
ReciprocityKentucky has trade-license reciprocity with several states (e.g., electrical with Ohio). No GC reciprocity (no state GC license).
Main agencyKentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction
Official sitehttps://dhbc.ky.gov/
Requirements, thresholds, and fees change, and local rules can be stricter than the state. Always confirm directly with the board and your local building department before you bid or pull a permit. This page is a starting point, not legal advice.
Apply / official Kentucky board →

License classifications

How to get licensed in Kentucky

  1. For general contracting, contact the specific city or county where you will work for its local license/registration rules.
  2. For a state trade (electrical, HVAC, plumbing), apply through the DHBC, meeting experience prerequisites.
  3. Pass the required state trade exam for your classification.
  4. Submit proof of insurance (required for master licenses) and pay the applicable fee.
  5. Renew on schedule with 6 hours of continuing education for state trade licenses via the DHBC SmartGov portal.

Frequently asked questions

Does Kentucky require a general contractor license?

Not at the state level. General contractors are regulated by local cities and counties.

Which trades does Kentucky license statewide?

Electrical, HVAC, plumbing, fire protection sprinkler, and boiler/pressure vessel contractors are licensed by the DHBC.

Is there continuing education for Kentucky trade licenses?

Yes. State-licensed trades require 6 hours of continuing education per year under 815 KAR 2:010.

When do Kentucky trade licenses renew?

Renewal must be filed no later than the last day of the licensee's birth month.

Does Kentucky have contractor reciprocity?

Yes for some trades (e.g., electrical with Ohio). There is no GC reciprocity because there is no statewide GC license.

Sources

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Guide compiled from official Kentucky licensing-board sources. Verify current details with the board before acting; licensing rules change.