Trade business resources for Tennessee.

In Tennessee, contractors who perform construction work valued at $25,000 or more (including labor and materials) must be licensed through the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors. Licensing is administered at the state level, though some municipalities may impose additional local requirements.

State licensing board

Tennessee requires a contractor license for any single project with a contract price of $25,000 or more. General contractors fall under the 'BC-A' (Building Construction) or related classification depending on scope. Electricians are licensed separately through the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance — master and journeyman electricians must pass exams and meet experience requirements regardless of dollar threshold. Plumbers are similarly licensed at the individual tradesperson level (master/journeyman) through the same department, with separate oversight from the plumbing program. HVAC contractors performing work above $25,000 must hold a contractor license with an 'MED' (mechanical) classification; individual HVAC technicians may also need EPA and state certifications. Roofing contractors are required to hold a state contractor license for projects at or above the $25,000 threshold, and since 2023 Tennessee has required roofing contractors to register specifically with the Board. Home improvement work (residential projects between $3,000 and $24,999) requires a separate Home Improvement license issued by the same Board.

Business registration