How do you obtain a Louisiana contractor's license?

Whether you are a Louisiana resident or an out-of-state contractor trying to expand into the state, you'll need a contractor's license. You'll need a license to legally do most types of construction work in Louisiana.

To learn more about how to get a contractor's license in Louisiana, check out License Search's article.

Who needs a contractor's license in Louisiana?

The Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC) is responsible for ensuring that contractors in the state are appropriately licensed. So, how do you know whether you need one? The LSLBC separates contractors into groups depending on the scope of work and contract price of projects.

Types of Louisiana contractors license

Louisiana has a variety of classifications, including many subcategories for specific trades. However, the focus of this article is on the three most common forms of licenses: commercial, residential, and home improvement registration.

Licenses for commercial contractors

Commercial projects having a total contract price of $50,000 or more, including labor and materials, require this type of license. For these types of projects, subcontractors and specialty trade contractors must also be licensed.

Subcontractors providing electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work will only need a license if the job is worth more than $10,000. The second exception pertains to the disposal of hazardous waste. This procedure includes lead and paint removal, asbestos removal, and mold remediation. A license for these trades is required for any project worth more than $1.

Residential contractor licenses

A residential license is required for any home building that costs more than $75,000. Residential property includes home renovations and a new building of one to four-unit family residences. Subcontractors and specialty trades working on residential projects, like commercial projects, must be licensed unless the contract value is less than $75,000.

License for home improvements

The third primary form of contractor license covers any home renovation projects that cost more than $7,500 but are less than the $75,000 requirement for a residential license. This license, on the other hand, does not cover swimming pools. For specific types of installations or changes, a specialty trade license is necessary.

What are the prerequisites for obtaining a Louisiana general contractor's license?

You must complete the following steps in order to obtain a general contractor license in Louisiana:

Choose a classification for the job you wish to do from a list of ten alternatives on your application, such as building construction, electrical work, mechanical work, plumbing work, specialty classifications, or residential construction.

Prepare financial statements: Provide the board with notarized financial statements for the last 12 months that show you have at least $10,000 or a letter of credit, bond, or another form of security in the same amount.

Choose a qualified party to act as the legal agent for your contracting firm. This does not necessitate to hire a lawyer. You have the option to represent yourself. Alternatively, you can name a business partner, spouse, or anybody else eligible to represent you.

Pass the board's test and background check. You'll have to go through the board's verification process and pass a test. Based on your expertise and records, they can determine if you are eligible to engage in contractual operations.

Obtain insurance coverage. A certificate of insurance for current workers' compensation insurance, as well as proof of general liability insurance, are necessary.

This is only necessary for residential and home improvement applications. If you have or plan to have employees, you must carry General Liability and Worker's Compensation insurance.

General liability insurance should provide coverage of up to $100,000. Copies of these should be provided to [email protected] after the application has been submitted.

Pay all needed payments, including test and processing costs, which may vary depending on the classification you choose (for example home or commercial). The costs range from $400 to $700.

Pass all of your examinations. Pass the appropriate tests, which include the business and legal exams, as well as any trade-related exams.

You may submit your application for board approval

Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors

2525 Quail Drive,

Baton Rouge, LA 70808

How long does it take to get a Louisiana contractor's license?

For in-state applicants, the procedure takes around four weeks from start to finish. If you live outside of Louisiana and want to become a general contractor, you must wait 60 days from the time the board receives your application.

After you have your license, you must renew it every year. You should prepare your renewal at least 30 days before it expires, according to the board. A late fee will be applied to any applications submitted 15 days or more after the expiration date.