Steps for Becoming a Licensed Contractor in Tennessee

The Tennessee real estate market is busy, which is good news for individuals interested in contractor roles. Whether you want to be involved in new constructions or repairs in residential, commercial, or industrial properties, you should establish a stable and successful career in no time if you are using the right approach.

As a contractor, you must have strong management skills and excellent construction knowledge to create successful projects and meet all the necessary building regulations. You must acquire a licence to prove you have all the required qualifications and instil confidence in potential clients.

Here are steps that will get you there

Choose Your Preferred Licence Type

Most contractor jobs in Tennessee require you to hold a valid license. Licence requirements vary depending on the total cost, category, and project size. Any project whose total costs fall between $3,000 and $25,000 will require you to have a valid home improvement licence in some counties.

If you’re targeting projects valued at over $25,000, you’ll want to acquire one or more of the six types of contractor licence. Bear in mind that apart from the Limited Residential (BC-A/r) licence, qualification conditions for the other five licences include taking a Tennessee Contractors License exam.

Take Your Exams

You have to take and pass the Tennessee Business and Law exam if you’re applying for any of the five contractor’s licence classifications that aren’t exempt. The only category of contractor’s licence exempted from taking exams and applicants allowed to take a course from an approved community college is the limited residential contractor’s licence.

In addition to the Business and Law exam, aspiring contractors must also take the “Trade” exam relevant to the type of licence they are applying for.

Provide the Specified Documentation

Due to the regulations and agreements that govern contractor duties, part of the application process requires you to submit paperwork that proves your credibility and compliance. For contractors submitting their applications in Tennessee, the documentation typically required includes financial statements, subcontractor agreement information, business licence, and proof of insurance.

Double-check the exact document requirement for the type of licensing you are applying for.

Submit Your Application

Once you have all the necessary documentation, it’s time to complete your application. You’ll start by accessing the application form on the licensing board’s website. Make sure to read the questions carefully and provide correct information as required. You may be required to list any specialisations you have and all the work experience you’ve gained, regardless of the state in which you acquired it.

After completing your form, you can send it along with the applicable fees and wait. The submission and approval process can take up to six weeks, so you’ll want to be patient. After your licence has been approved, it will be mailed so you can legally practice in your field.

Meet Your Requirements With Ease

Acquiring a contractor’s licence in Tennessee is simple, but you may need some assistance in some areas. One of those is preparing for your exam. As one of the U.S.’s leading continuing education and exam prep material providers, RocketCert offers high-quality exam prep resources to increase your chances of passing on the first attempt.

Also, with a dedicated team of experts to support you when needed, your application process should be as smooth as possible.