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Georgia Contractor Business & Law — Requirements & Free Practice

US-GA · License preparation

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Commercial General Contractor Company

Licensure in the Commercial General Contractor category as a business organization acting through a licensed qualifying agent.

Licensing authority: State Licensing Board for Residential and Commercial General Contractors · Application information

Inactive status after qualifying agent disaffiliation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disaffiliation
Notify the Board using the disaffiliation form; the qualifying-agent licence becomes inactive after affiliation ends, and organization licensing depends on a replacement qualifying agent.
Replacement period
O.C.G.A. 43-41-9(e)(1), amended by SB 503, supplies 180 days for replacement and application. Older Rules 553-10-.01 and 553-11-.02 still state 120 days; the controlling statute governs.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Discretionary reissue after revocation or lifting of suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary licence
The licence was revoked or suspended. The division may reissue it or lift suspension when four or more division members vote in favour for reasons the division considers sufficient.
Individual order
Satisfy the applicable disciplinary order and any restoration conditions imposed by the division. O.C.G.A. 43-41-10(f) does not identify a required examination for this procedure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination through a new qualifying agent
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Expedited military initial licensure by examination
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Expedited military licensure by reciprocity
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Examination waiver
The division decides the trade-examination exemption under O.C.G.A. 43-41-8. The Board explicitly retains the Georgia Business & Law examination for reciprocity applicants; examinations of other jurisdictions are applicant evidence, not leaves.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Other jurisdiction licence
Hold an active comparable licence for the preceding three years, issued on examination, without licensing-law penalties during the preceding three years. The Board must be able to review qualifications, application and examination results.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Recognized licences
The Board chart lists commercial building-construction licences from Louisiana and Mississippi.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Joint venture qualified by all licensed contracting members
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Category
Member licences must authorize the work in the relevant contractor category.
Existing members
Every member doing business as a residential or commercial general contractor must hold a valid current Georgia licence, as an individual or through its qualifying agent. Each such individual or qualifying agent becomes a qualifying agent of the joint venture.
Organization
A joint venture is a separate organization for licensing. This route uses all licensed members under O.C.G.A. 43-41-9(c)(2); using a separate organization licence under paragraph (c)(1) follows the company issuance routes.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board guide statement
The current Board guide states: "A late renewal period is available from July 1 – July 31." This shorter published administrative period is recorded for the applicant alongside the controlling 45-day statute.
Continuing education
Provide continuing education if required by the division; the general contractor renewal rule does not itself prescribe a number of hours.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Late period
HB 579, effective July 1, 2026, makes O.C.G.A. 43-1-4(b) applicable notwithstanding conflicting provisions of Title 43 and allows renewal up to 45 days after expiration upon satisfaction of requirements and fees. Section 43-41-6(i) and older Board rules still state six months; those conflicting periods do not control over the later express notwithstanding provision.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Upgrade from General Contractor Limited Tier
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Limited tier licence
Hold a General Contractor Limited Tier licence and submit an application for the unlimited general contractor licence, satisfying its financial and other requirements. The same currently offered trade and business-law examinations apply; prior passing scores and statutory exemptions may avoid retesting.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
New organization affiliation through an already licensed contractor
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Existing licence
The applicant already holds a continuously maintained Georgia individual or qualifying-agent licence in the same category; submit the new affiliation application and organization financial and insurance evidence.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New licence after organization structure change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Structure change
A change in business organization structure, such as corporation to LLC, requires a new application; an already licensed qualifying agent may qualify the new organization without examination after financial and insurance review.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a current Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must hold a current, valid Georgia licence in the same category.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a former Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must have previously been issued a Georgia licence in the same category; furnish required continuing education for each inactive biennium if the division requires it.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of an inactive licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide Board-required approved continuing education for each inactive biennium, when required for the licence type.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Good standing
Provide evidence of good standing in every jurisdiction in which the licensee has ever been licensed.
Inactive licence
The Georgia licence is inactive. Submit the reactivation application and required fee.
Insurance
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization registration
For an organization licence or affiliated qualifying agent, provide active and compliant Georgia Corporations Division registration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by reciprocity through the qualifying agent
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Examination waiver
The division decides the trade-examination exemption under O.C.G.A. 43-41-8. The Board explicitly retains the Georgia Business & Law examination for reciprocity applicants; examinations of other jurisdictions are applicant evidence, not leaves.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Other jurisdiction licence
Hold an active comparable licence for the preceding three years, issued on examination, without licensing-law penalties during the preceding three years. The Board must be able to review qualifications, application and examination results.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Recognized licences
The Board chart lists commercial building-construction licences from Louisiana and Mississippi.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Reinstatement after failure to renew
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Division discretion
Rule 553-12-.06(3) permits denial, approval with conditions, or retaking the licensure examination. The examinations are retained because they may be required; whether this applicant must retake them is for the division to decide.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Lapsed licence
The licence has expired beyond the late renewal period. Submit the reinstatement application and fee; the division may require a new-application level of documentation.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Biennial timely renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide continuing education if required by the division; the general contractor renewal rule does not itself prescribe a number of hours.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Voluntary inactive or retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current licence
Hold a valid current Georgia contractor licence and submit the inactive-status application and fee.
Inactive practice
Refrain or retire from active practice; do not contract or hold out as available. Continuing education and renewal fees are not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Commercial General Contractor Individual

Licensure in the Commercial General Contractor category as an individual acting in their own name or as a sole proprietor.

Licensing authority: State Licensing Board for Residential and Commercial General Contractors · Application information

Discretionary reissue after revocation or lifting of suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary licence
The licence was revoked or suspended. The division may reissue it or lift suspension when four or more division members vote in favour for reasons the division considers sufficient.
Individual order
Satisfy the applicable disciplinary order and any restoration conditions imposed by the division. O.C.G.A. 43-41-10(f) does not identify a required examination for this procedure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Expedited military initial licensure by examination
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Expedited military licensure by reciprocity
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Examination waiver
The division decides the trade-examination exemption under O.C.G.A. 43-41-8. The Board explicitly retains the Georgia Business & Law examination for reciprocity applicants; examinations of other jurisdictions are applicant evidence, not leaves.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Other jurisdiction licence
Hold an active comparable licence for the preceding three years, issued on examination, without licensing-law penalties during the preceding three years. The Board must be able to review qualifications, application and examination results.
Recognized licences
The Board chart lists commercial building-construction licences from Louisiana and Mississippi.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Late renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board guide statement
The current Board guide states: "A late renewal period is available from July 1 – July 31." This shorter published administrative period is recorded for the applicant alongside the controlling 45-day statute.
Continuing education
Provide continuing education if required by the division; the general contractor renewal rule does not itself prescribe a number of hours.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Late period
HB 579, effective July 1, 2026, makes O.C.G.A. 43-1-4(b) applicable notwithstanding conflicting provisions of Title 43 and allows renewal up to 45 days after expiration upon satisfaction of requirements and fees. Section 43-41-6(i) and older Board rules still state six months; those conflicting periods do not control over the later express notwithstanding provision.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Upgrade from General Contractor Limited Tier
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Limited tier licence
Hold a General Contractor Limited Tier licence and submit an application for the unlimited general contractor licence, satisfying its financial and other requirements. The same currently offered trade and business-law examinations apply; prior passing scores and statutory exemptions may avoid retesting.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Prior approval based on a current Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must hold a current, valid Georgia licence in the same category.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a former Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must have previously been issued a Georgia licence in the same category; furnish required continuing education for each inactive biennium if the division requires it.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of an inactive licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide Board-required approved continuing education for each inactive biennium, when required for the licence type.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Good standing
Provide evidence of good standing in every jurisdiction in which the licensee has ever been licensed.
Inactive licence
The Georgia licence is inactive. Submit the reactivation application and required fee.
Insurance
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization registration
For an organization licence or affiliated qualifying agent, provide active and compliant Georgia Corporations Division registration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by reciprocity
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Examination waiver
The division decides the trade-examination exemption under O.C.G.A. 43-41-8. The Board explicitly retains the Georgia Business & Law examination for reciprocity applicants; examinations of other jurisdictions are applicant evidence, not leaves.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Other jurisdiction licence
Hold an active comparable licence for the preceding three years, issued on examination, without licensing-law penalties during the preceding three years. The Board must be able to review qualifications, application and examination results.
Recognized licences
The Board chart lists commercial building-construction licences from Louisiana and Mississippi.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Reinstatement after failure to renew
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Division discretion
Rule 553-12-.06(3) permits denial, approval with conditions, or retaking the licensure examination. The examinations are retained because they may be required; whether this applicant must retake them is for the division to decide.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Lapsed licence
The licence has expired beyond the late renewal period. Submit the reinstatement application and fee; the division may require a new-application level of documentation.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Biennial timely renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide continuing education if required by the division; the general contractor renewal rule does not itself prescribe a number of hours.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Voluntary inactive or retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current licence
Hold a valid current Georgia contractor licence and submit the inactive-status application and fee.
Inactive practice
Refrain or retire from active practice; do not contract or hold out as available. Continuing education and renewal fees are not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

General Contractor Limited Tier Company

Licensure in the General Contractor Limited Tier category as a business organization acting through a licensed qualifying agent.

Licensing authority: State Licensing Board for Residential and Commercial General Contractors · Application information

Inactive status after qualifying agent disaffiliation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disaffiliation
Notify the Board using the disaffiliation form; the qualifying-agent licence becomes inactive after affiliation ends, and organization licensing depends on a replacement qualifying agent.
Replacement period
O.C.G.A. 43-41-9(e)(1), amended by SB 503, supplies 180 days for replacement and application. Older Rules 553-10-.01 and 553-11-.02 still state 120 days; the controlling statute governs.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Discretionary reissue after revocation or lifting of suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary licence
The licence was revoked or suspended. The division may reissue it or lift suspension when four or more division members vote in favour for reasons the division considers sufficient.
Individual order
Satisfy the applicable disciplinary order and any restoration conditions imposed by the division. O.C.G.A. 43-41-10(f) does not identify a required examination for this procedure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination through a new qualifying agent
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Expedited military initial licensure by examination
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Joint venture qualified by all licensed contracting members
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Category
Member licences must authorize the work in the relevant contractor category.
Existing members
Every member doing business as a residential or commercial general contractor must hold a valid current Georgia licence, as an individual or through its qualifying agent. Each such individual or qualifying agent becomes a qualifying agent of the joint venture.
Organization
A joint venture is a separate organization for licensing. This route uses all licensed members under O.C.G.A. 43-41-9(c)(2); using a separate organization licence under paragraph (c)(1) follows the company issuance routes.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board guide statement
The current Board guide states: "A late renewal period is available from July 1 – July 31." This shorter published administrative period is recorded for the applicant alongside the controlling 45-day statute.
Continuing education
Provide continuing education if required by the division; the general contractor renewal rule does not itself prescribe a number of hours.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Late period
HB 579, effective July 1, 2026, makes O.C.G.A. 43-1-4(b) applicable notwithstanding conflicting provisions of Title 43 and allows renewal up to 45 days after expiration upon satisfaction of requirements and fees. Section 43-41-6(i) and older Board rules still state six months; those conflicting periods do not control over the later express notwithstanding provision.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New organization affiliation through an already licensed contractor
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Existing licence
The applicant already holds a continuously maintained Georgia individual or qualifying-agent licence in the same category; submit the new affiliation application and organization financial and insurance evidence.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New licence after organization structure change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Structure change
A change in business organization structure, such as corporation to LLC, requires a new application; an already licensed qualifying agent may qualify the new organization without examination after financial and insurance review.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a current Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must hold a current, valid Georgia licence in the same category.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a former Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must have previously been issued a Georgia licence in the same category; furnish required continuing education for each inactive biennium if the division requires it.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of an inactive licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide Board-required approved continuing education for each inactive biennium, when required for the licence type.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Good standing
Provide evidence of good standing in every jurisdiction in which the licensee has ever been licensed.
Inactive licence
The Georgia licence is inactive. Submit the reactivation application and required fee.
Insurance
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization registration
For an organization licence or affiliated qualifying agent, provide active and compliant Georgia Corporations Division registration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after failure to renew
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Division discretion
Rule 553-12-.06(3) permits denial, approval with conditions, or retaking the licensure examination. The examinations are retained because they may be required; whether this applicant must retake them is for the division to decide.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Lapsed licence
The licence has expired beyond the late renewal period. Submit the reinstatement application and fee; the division may require a new-application level of documentation.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Biennial timely renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide continuing education if required by the division; the general contractor renewal rule does not itself prescribe a number of hours.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Voluntary inactive or retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current licence
Hold a valid current Georgia contractor licence and submit the inactive-status application and fee.
Inactive practice
Refrain or retire from active practice; do not contract or hold out as available. Continuing education and renewal fees are not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

General Contractor Limited Tier Individual

Licensure in the General Contractor Limited Tier category as an individual acting in their own name or as a sole proprietor.

Licensing authority: State Licensing Board for Residential and Commercial General Contractors · Application information

Discretionary reissue after revocation or lifting of suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary licence
The licence was revoked or suspended. The division may reissue it or lift suspension when four or more division members vote in favour for reasons the division considers sufficient.
Individual order
Satisfy the applicable disciplinary order and any restoration conditions imposed by the division. O.C.G.A. 43-41-10(f) does not identify a required examination for this procedure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Expedited military initial licensure by examination
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Late renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board guide statement
The current Board guide states: "A late renewal period is available from July 1 – July 31." This shorter published administrative period is recorded for the applicant alongside the controlling 45-day statute.
Continuing education
Provide continuing education if required by the division; the general contractor renewal rule does not itself prescribe a number of hours.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Late period
HB 579, effective July 1, 2026, makes O.C.G.A. 43-1-4(b) applicable notwithstanding conflicting provisions of Title 43 and allows renewal up to 45 days after expiration upon satisfaction of requirements and fees. Section 43-41-6(i) and older Board rules still state six months; those conflicting periods do not control over the later express notwithstanding provision.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a current Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must hold a current, valid Georgia licence in the same category.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a former Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must have previously been issued a Georgia licence in the same category; furnish required continuing education for each inactive biennium if the division requires it.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of an inactive licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide Board-required approved continuing education for each inactive biennium, when required for the licence type.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Good standing
Provide evidence of good standing in every jurisdiction in which the licensee has ever been licensed.
Inactive licence
The Georgia licence is inactive. Submit the reactivation application and required fee.
Insurance
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization registration
For an organization licence or affiliated qualifying agent, provide active and compliant Georgia Corporations Division registration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after failure to renew
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Division discretion
Rule 553-12-.06(3) permits denial, approval with conditions, or retaking the licensure examination. The examinations are retained because they may be required; whether this applicant must retake them is for the division to decide.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Lapsed licence
The licence has expired beyond the late renewal period. Submit the reinstatement application and fee; the division may require a new-application level of documentation.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Biennial timely renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide continuing education if required by the division; the general contractor renewal rule does not itself prescribe a number of hours.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Voluntary inactive or retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current licence
Hold a valid current Georgia contractor licence and submit the inactive-status application and fee.
Inactive practice
Refrain or retire from active practice; do not contract or hold out as available. Continuing education and renewal fees are not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

General Contractor Limited Tier Qualifying Agent

Licensure in the General Contractor Limited Tier category as an individual acting for an affiliated business organization.

Licensing authority: State Licensing Board for Residential and Commercial General Contractors · Application information

Inactive status after qualifying agent disaffiliation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disaffiliation
Notify the Board using the disaffiliation form; the qualifying-agent licence becomes inactive after affiliation ends, and organization licensing depends on a replacement qualifying agent.
Replacement period
O.C.G.A. 43-41-9(e)(1), amended by SB 503, supplies 180 days for replacement and application. Older Rules 553-10-.01 and 553-11-.02 still state 120 days; the controlling statute governs.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Discretionary reissue after revocation or lifting of suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary licence
The licence was revoked or suspended. The division may reissue it or lift suspension when four or more division members vote in favour for reasons the division considers sufficient.
Individual order
Satisfy the applicable disciplinary order and any restoration conditions imposed by the division. O.C.G.A. 43-41-10(f) does not identify a required examination for this procedure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Expedited military initial licensure by examination
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Late renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board guide statement
The current Board guide states: "A late renewal period is available from July 1 – July 31." This shorter published administrative period is recorded for the applicant alongside the controlling 45-day statute.
Continuing education
Provide continuing education if required by the division; the general contractor renewal rule does not itself prescribe a number of hours.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Late period
HB 579, effective July 1, 2026, makes O.C.G.A. 43-1-4(b) applicable notwithstanding conflicting provisions of Title 43 and allows renewal up to 45 days after expiration upon satisfaction of requirements and fees. Section 43-41-6(i) and older Board rules still state six months; those conflicting periods do not control over the later express notwithstanding provision.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New organization affiliation through an already licensed contractor
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Existing licence
The applicant already holds a continuously maintained Georgia individual or qualifying-agent licence in the same category; submit the new affiliation application and organization financial and insurance evidence.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a current Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must hold a current, valid Georgia licence in the same category.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a former Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must have previously been issued a Georgia licence in the same category; furnish required continuing education for each inactive biennium if the division requires it.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of an inactive licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide Board-required approved continuing education for each inactive biennium, when required for the licence type.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Good standing
Provide evidence of good standing in every jurisdiction in which the licensee has ever been licensed.
Inactive licence
The Georgia licence is inactive. Submit the reactivation application and required fee.
Insurance
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization registration
For an organization licence or affiliated qualifying agent, provide active and compliant Georgia Corporations Division registration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after failure to renew
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Contract limit
Each contract is limited to $1,000,000; change orders may not exceed the permitted maximum for the project.
Division discretion
Rule 553-12-.06(3) permits denial, approval with conditions, or retaking the licensure examination. The examinations are retained because they may be required; whether this applicant must retake them is for the division to decide.
Experience
The education and experience alternatives for a commercial general contractor under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(d), including required verification by affidavit, apply.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $25,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Lapsed licence
The licence has expired beyond the late renewal period. Submit the reinstatement application and fee; the division may require a new-application level of documentation.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Organization
The Board guide applies reinstatement to the same affiliated company; applying for a different company uses prior approval or the appropriate issuance route.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Biennial timely renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide continuing education if required by the division; the general contractor renewal rule does not itself prescribe a number of hours.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Voluntary inactive or retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current licence
Hold a valid current Georgia contractor licence and submit the inactive-status application and fee.
Inactive practice
Refrain or retire from active practice; do not contract or hold out as available. Continuing education and renewal fees are not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Commercial General Contractor Qualifying Agent

Licensure in the Commercial General Contractor category as an individual acting for an affiliated business organization.

Licensing authority: State Licensing Board for Residential and Commercial General Contractors · Application information

Inactive status after qualifying agent disaffiliation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disaffiliation
Notify the Board using the disaffiliation form; the qualifying-agent licence becomes inactive after affiliation ends, and organization licensing depends on a replacement qualifying agent.
Replacement period
O.C.G.A. 43-41-9(e)(1), amended by SB 503, supplies 180 days for replacement and application. Older Rules 553-10-.01 and 553-11-.02 still state 120 days; the controlling statute governs.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Discretionary reissue after revocation or lifting of suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary licence
The licence was revoked or suspended. The division may reissue it or lift suspension when four or more division members vote in favour for reasons the division considers sufficient.
Individual order
Satisfy the applicable disciplinary order and any restoration conditions imposed by the division. O.C.G.A. 43-41-10(f) does not identify a required examination for this procedure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Expedited military initial licensure by examination
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Expedited military licensure by reciprocity
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Examination waiver
The division decides the trade-examination exemption under O.C.G.A. 43-41-8. The Board explicitly retains the Georgia Business & Law examination for reciprocity applicants; examinations of other jurisdictions are applicant evidence, not leaves.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Other jurisdiction licence
Hold an active comparable licence for the preceding three years, issued on examination, without licensing-law penalties during the preceding three years. The Board must be able to review qualifications, application and examination results.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Recognized licences
The Board chart lists commercial building-construction licences from Louisiana and Mississippi.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Late renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board guide statement
The current Board guide states: "A late renewal period is available from July 1 – July 31." This shorter published administrative period is recorded for the applicant alongside the controlling 45-day statute.
Continuing education
Provide continuing education if required by the division; the general contractor renewal rule does not itself prescribe a number of hours.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Late period
HB 579, effective July 1, 2026, makes O.C.G.A. 43-1-4(b) applicable notwithstanding conflicting provisions of Title 43 and allows renewal up to 45 days after expiration upon satisfaction of requirements and fees. Section 43-41-6(i) and older Board rules still state six months; those conflicting periods do not control over the later express notwithstanding provision.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Upgrade from General Contractor Limited Tier
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Limited tier licence
Hold a General Contractor Limited Tier licence and submit an application for the unlimited general contractor licence, satisfying its financial and other requirements. The same currently offered trade and business-law examinations apply; prior passing scores and statutory exemptions may avoid retesting.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
New organization affiliation through an already licensed contractor
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Existing licence
The applicant already holds a continuously maintained Georgia individual or qualifying-agent licence in the same category; submit the new affiliation application and organization financial and insurance evidence.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a current Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must hold a current, valid Georgia licence in the same category.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a former Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must have previously been issued a Georgia licence in the same category; furnish required continuing education for each inactive biennium if the division requires it.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of an inactive licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide Board-required approved continuing education for each inactive biennium, when required for the licence type.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Good standing
Provide evidence of good standing in every jurisdiction in which the licensee has ever been licensed.
Inactive licence
The Georgia licence is inactive. Submit the reactivation application and required fee.
Insurance
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization registration
For an organization licence or affiliated qualifying agent, provide active and compliant Georgia Corporations Division registration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by reciprocity
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Examination waiver
The division decides the trade-examination exemption under O.C.G.A. 43-41-8. The Board explicitly retains the Georgia Business & Law examination for reciprocity applicants; examinations of other jurisdictions are applicant evidence, not leaves.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Other jurisdiction licence
Hold an active comparable licence for the preceding three years, issued on examination, without licensing-law penalties during the preceding three years. The Board must be able to review qualifications, application and examination results.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Recognized licences
The Board chart lists commercial building-construction licences from Louisiana and Mississippi.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Reinstatement after failure to renew
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Division discretion
Rule 553-12-.06(3) permits denial, approval with conditions, or retaking the licensure examination. The examinations are retained because they may be required; whether this applicant must retake them is for the division to decide.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying general contracting experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience supported by an affidavit; or four years of active construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a commercial general contractor or an accepted equivalent, and one year in administration, marketing, accounting, estimating, drafting, engineering, supervision, project management or an accepted equivalent. Required experience must be verified by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Minimum net worth of $150,000.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Lapsed licence
The licence has expired beyond the late renewal period. Submit the reinstatement application and fee; the division may require a new-application level of documentation.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Nationwide examination
NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is required or may be required on this route. Georgia permits use of its passing transcript; the frozen nationwide context supplies no registered version, so this examination is recorded as a condition pending nationwide registration.
Organization
The Board guide applies reinstatement to the same affiliated company; applying for a different company uses prior approval or the appropriate issuance route.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Tax verification
Provide tax payment verification in the manner and for the duration prescribed by the division; qualifying-agent applications use the affiliated organization information.
Biennial timely renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide continuing education if required by the division; the general contractor renewal rule does not itself prescribe a number of hours.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Voluntary inactive or retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current licence
Hold a valid current Georgia contractor licence and submit the inactive-status application and fee.
Inactive practice
Refrain or retire from active practice; do not contract or hold out as available. Continuing education and renewal fees are not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Residential Basic Contractor Company

Licensure in the Residential Basic Contractor category as a business organization acting through a licensed qualifying agent.

Licensing authority: State Licensing Board for Residential and Commercial General Contractors · Application information

Inactive status after qualifying agent disaffiliation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disaffiliation
Notify the Board using the disaffiliation form; the qualifying-agent licence becomes inactive after affiliation ends, and organization licensing depends on a replacement qualifying agent.
Replacement period
O.C.G.A. 43-41-9(e)(1), amended by SB 503, supplies 180 days for replacement and application. Older Rules 553-10-.01 and 553-11-.02 still state 120 days; the controlling statute governs.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Discretionary reissue after revocation or lifting of suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary licence
The licence was revoked or suspended. The division may reissue it or lift suspension when four or more division members vote in favour for reasons the division considers sufficient.
Individual order
Satisfy the applicable disciplinary order and any restoration conditions imposed by the division. O.C.G.A. 43-41-10(f) does not identify a required examination for this procedure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination through a new qualifying agent

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Expedited military initial licensure by examination

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Expedited military licensure by reciprocity
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Examination waiver
The division decides the trade-examination exemption under O.C.G.A. 43-41-8. The Board explicitly retains the Georgia Business & Law examination for reciprocity applicants; examinations of other jurisdictions are applicant evidence, not leaves.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Other jurisdiction licence
Hold an active comparable licence for the preceding three years, issued on examination, without licensing-law penalties during the preceding three years. The Board must be able to review qualifications, application and examination results.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Recognized licences
The Board chart lists residential building or residential builder licences from Louisiana, Mississippi and South Carolina.
Joint venture qualified by all licensed contracting members
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Category
Member licences must authorize the work in the relevant contractor category.
Existing members
Every member doing business as a residential or commercial general contractor must hold a valid current Georgia licence, as an individual or through its qualifying agent. Each such individual or qualifying agent becomes a qualifying agent of the joint venture.
Organization
A joint venture is a separate organization for licensing. This route uses all licensed members under O.C.G.A. 43-41-9(c)(2); using a separate organization licence under paragraph (c)(1) follows the company issuance routes.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board guide statement
The current Board guide states: "A late renewal period is available from July 1 – July 31." This shorter published administrative period is recorded for the applicant alongside the controlling 45-day statute.
Continuing education
Residential Basic requires three hours each year; Residential Light Commercial requires six hours each year, with official attendance records maintained for two years and subject to audit or hardship relief.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Late period
HB 579, effective July 1, 2026, makes O.C.G.A. 43-1-4(b) applicable notwithstanding conflicting provisions of Title 43 and allows renewal up to 45 days after expiration upon satisfaction of requirements and fees. Section 43-41-6(i) and older Board rules still state six months; those conflicting periods do not control over the later express notwithstanding provision.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New organization affiliation through an already licensed contractor
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Existing licence
The applicant already holds a continuously maintained Georgia individual or qualifying-agent licence in the same category; submit the new affiliation application and organization financial and insurance evidence.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New licence after organization structure change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Structure change
A change in business organization structure, such as corporation to LLC, requires a new application; an already licensed qualifying agent may qualify the new organization without examination after financial and insurance review.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a current Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must hold a current, valid Georgia licence in the same category.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a former Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must have previously been issued a Georgia licence in the same category; furnish required continuing education for each inactive biennium if the division requires it.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of an inactive licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide Board-required approved continuing education for each inactive biennium, when required for the licence type.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Good standing
Provide evidence of good standing in every jurisdiction in which the licensee has ever been licensed.
Inactive licence
The Georgia licence is inactive. Submit the reactivation application and required fee.
Insurance
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization registration
For an organization licence or affiliated qualifying agent, provide active and compliant Georgia Corporations Division registration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by reciprocity through the qualifying agent
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Examination waiver
The division decides the trade-examination exemption under O.C.G.A. 43-41-8. The Board explicitly retains the Georgia Business & Law examination for reciprocity applicants; examinations of other jurisdictions are applicant evidence, not leaves.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Other jurisdiction licence
Hold an active comparable licence for the preceding three years, issued on examination, without licensing-law penalties during the preceding three years. The Board must be able to review qualifications, application and examination results.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Recognized licences
The Board chart lists residential building or residential builder licences from Louisiana, Mississippi and South Carolina.
Reinstatement after failure to renew

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Division discretion
Rule 553-12-.06(3) permits denial, approval with conditions, or retaking the licensure examination. The examinations are retained because they may be required; whether this applicant must retake them is for the division to decide.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Lapsed continuing education
Submit required approved continuing education for each biennium while the licence was lapsed.
Lapsed licence
The licence has expired beyond the late renewal period. Submit the reinstatement application and fee; the division may require a new-application level of documentation.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Biennial timely renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Residential Basic requires three hours each year; Residential Light Commercial requires six hours each year, with official attendance records maintained for two years and subject to audit or hardship relief.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Voluntary inactive or retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current licence
Hold a valid current Georgia contractor licence and submit the inactive-status application and fee.
Inactive practice
Refrain or retire from active practice; do not contract or hold out as available. Continuing education and renewal fees are not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Residential Basic Contractor Individual

Licensure in the Residential Basic Contractor category as an individual acting in their own name or as a sole proprietor.

Licensing authority: State Licensing Board for Residential and Commercial General Contractors · Application information

Discretionary reissue after revocation or lifting of suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary licence
The licence was revoked or suspended. The division may reissue it or lift suspension when four or more division members vote in favour for reasons the division considers sufficient.
Individual order
Satisfy the applicable disciplinary order and any restoration conditions imposed by the division. O.C.G.A. 43-41-10(f) does not identify a required examination for this procedure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Expedited military initial licensure by examination

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Expedited military licensure by reciprocity
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Examination waiver
The division decides the trade-examination exemption under O.C.G.A. 43-41-8. The Board explicitly retains the Georgia Business & Law examination for reciprocity applicants; examinations of other jurisdictions are applicant evidence, not leaves.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Other jurisdiction licence
Hold an active comparable licence for the preceding three years, issued on examination, without licensing-law penalties during the preceding three years. The Board must be able to review qualifications, application and examination results.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Recognized licences
The Board chart lists residential building or residential builder licences from Louisiana, Mississippi and South Carolina.
Late renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board guide statement
The current Board guide states: "A late renewal period is available from July 1 – July 31." This shorter published administrative period is recorded for the applicant alongside the controlling 45-day statute.
Continuing education
Residential Basic requires three hours each year; Residential Light Commercial requires six hours each year, with official attendance records maintained for two years and subject to audit or hardship relief.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Late period
HB 579, effective July 1, 2026, makes O.C.G.A. 43-1-4(b) applicable notwithstanding conflicting provisions of Title 43 and allows renewal up to 45 days after expiration upon satisfaction of requirements and fees. Section 43-41-6(i) and older Board rules still state six months; those conflicting periods do not control over the later express notwithstanding provision.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a current Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must hold a current, valid Georgia licence in the same category.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a former Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must have previously been issued a Georgia licence in the same category; furnish required continuing education for each inactive biennium if the division requires it.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of an inactive licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide Board-required approved continuing education for each inactive biennium, when required for the licence type.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Good standing
Provide evidence of good standing in every jurisdiction in which the licensee has ever been licensed.
Inactive licence
The Georgia licence is inactive. Submit the reactivation application and required fee.
Insurance
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization registration
For an organization licence or affiliated qualifying agent, provide active and compliant Georgia Corporations Division registration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by reciprocity
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Examination waiver
The division decides the trade-examination exemption under O.C.G.A. 43-41-8. The Board explicitly retains the Georgia Business & Law examination for reciprocity applicants; examinations of other jurisdictions are applicant evidence, not leaves.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Other jurisdiction licence
Hold an active comparable licence for the preceding three years, issued on examination, without licensing-law penalties during the preceding three years. The Board must be able to review qualifications, application and examination results.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Recognized licences
The Board chart lists residential building or residential builder licences from Louisiana, Mississippi and South Carolina.
Reinstatement after failure to renew

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Division discretion
Rule 553-12-.06(3) permits denial, approval with conditions, or retaking the licensure examination. The examinations are retained because they may be required; whether this applicant must retake them is for the division to decide.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Lapsed continuing education
Submit required approved continuing education for each biennium while the licence was lapsed.
Lapsed licence
The licence has expired beyond the late renewal period. Submit the reinstatement application and fee; the division may require a new-application level of documentation.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Biennial timely renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Residential Basic requires three hours each year; Residential Light Commercial requires six hours each year, with official attendance records maintained for two years and subject to audit or hardship relief.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Voluntary inactive or retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current licence
Hold a valid current Georgia contractor licence and submit the inactive-status application and fee.
Inactive practice
Refrain or retire from active practice; do not contract or hold out as available. Continuing education and renewal fees are not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Residential Basic Contractor Qualifying Agent

Licensure in the Residential Basic Contractor category as an individual acting for an affiliated business organization.

Licensing authority: State Licensing Board for Residential and Commercial General Contractors · Application information

Inactive status after qualifying agent disaffiliation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disaffiliation
Notify the Board using the disaffiliation form; the qualifying-agent licence becomes inactive after affiliation ends, and organization licensing depends on a replacement qualifying agent.
Replacement period
O.C.G.A. 43-41-9(e)(1), amended by SB 503, supplies 180 days for replacement and application. Older Rules 553-10-.01 and 553-11-.02 still state 120 days; the controlling statute governs.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Discretionary reissue after revocation or lifting of suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary licence
The licence was revoked or suspended. The division may reissue it or lift suspension when four or more division members vote in favour for reasons the division considers sufficient.
Individual order
Satisfy the applicable disciplinary order and any restoration conditions imposed by the division. O.C.G.A. 43-41-10(f) does not identify a required examination for this procedure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Expedited military initial licensure by examination

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Expedited military licensure by reciprocity
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Examination waiver
The division decides the trade-examination exemption under O.C.G.A. 43-41-8. The Board explicitly retains the Georgia Business & Law examination for reciprocity applicants; examinations of other jurisdictions are applicant evidence, not leaves.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Other jurisdiction licence
Hold an active comparable licence for the preceding three years, issued on examination, without licensing-law penalties during the preceding three years. The Board must be able to review qualifications, application and examination results.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Recognized licences
The Board chart lists residential building or residential builder licences from Louisiana, Mississippi and South Carolina.
Late renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board guide statement
The current Board guide states: "A late renewal period is available from July 1 – July 31." This shorter published administrative period is recorded for the applicant alongside the controlling 45-day statute.
Continuing education
Residential Basic requires three hours each year; Residential Light Commercial requires six hours each year, with official attendance records maintained for two years and subject to audit or hardship relief.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Late period
HB 579, effective July 1, 2026, makes O.C.G.A. 43-1-4(b) applicable notwithstanding conflicting provisions of Title 43 and allows renewal up to 45 days after expiration upon satisfaction of requirements and fees. Section 43-41-6(i) and older Board rules still state six months; those conflicting periods do not control over the later express notwithstanding provision.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New organization affiliation through an already licensed contractor
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Existing licence
The applicant already holds a continuously maintained Georgia individual or qualifying-agent licence in the same category; submit the new affiliation application and organization financial and insurance evidence.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a current Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must hold a current, valid Georgia licence in the same category.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a former Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must have previously been issued a Georgia licence in the same category; furnish required continuing education for each inactive biennium if the division requires it.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of an inactive licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide Board-required approved continuing education for each inactive biennium, when required for the licence type.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Good standing
Provide evidence of good standing in every jurisdiction in which the licensee has ever been licensed.
Inactive licence
The Georgia licence is inactive. Submit the reactivation application and required fee.
Insurance
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization registration
For an organization licence or affiliated qualifying agent, provide active and compliant Georgia Corporations Division registration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by reciprocity
Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Examination waiver
The division decides the trade-examination exemption under O.C.G.A. 43-41-8. The Board explicitly retains the Georgia Business & Law examination for reciprocity applicants; examinations of other jurisdictions are applicant evidence, not leaves.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Other jurisdiction licence
Hold an active comparable licence for the preceding three years, issued on examination, without licensing-law penalties during the preceding three years. The Board must be able to review qualifications, application and examination results.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Recognized licences
The Board chart lists residential building or residential builder licences from Louisiana, Mississippi and South Carolina.
Reinstatement after failure to renew

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Division discretion
Rule 553-12-.06(3) permits denial, approval with conditions, or retaking the licensure examination. The examinations are retained because they may be required; whether this applicant must retake them is for the division to decide.
Experience
At least two years of verifiable experience under the direct employment of a licensed residential contractor with primary focus on residential basic work, or substantially similar experience accepted by the division; an employer or other knowledgeable person must provide an affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Lapsed continuing education
Submit required approved continuing education for each biennium while the licence was lapsed.
Lapsed licence
The licence has expired beyond the late renewal period. Submit the reinstatement application and fee; the division may require a new-application level of documentation.
Liability and workers compensation
$300,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization
The Board guide applies reinstatement to the same affiliated company; applying for a different company uses prior approval or the appropriate issuance route.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential basic projects in the two years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Biennial timely renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Residential Basic requires three hours each year; Residential Light Commercial requires six hours each year, with official attendance records maintained for two years and subject to audit or hardship relief.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Voluntary inactive or retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current licence
Hold a valid current Georgia contractor licence and submit the inactive-status application and fee.
Inactive practice
Refrain or retire from active practice; do not contract or hold out as available. Continuing education and renewal fees are not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Residential Light Commercial Contractor Company

Licensure in the Residential Light Commercial Contractor category as a business organization acting through a licensed qualifying agent.

Licensing authority: State Licensing Board for Residential and Commercial General Contractors · Application information

Inactive status after qualifying agent disaffiliation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disaffiliation
Notify the Board using the disaffiliation form; the qualifying-agent licence becomes inactive after affiliation ends, and organization licensing depends on a replacement qualifying agent.
Replacement period
O.C.G.A. 43-41-9(e)(1), amended by SB 503, supplies 180 days for replacement and application. Older Rules 553-10-.01 and 553-11-.02 still state 120 days; the controlling statute governs.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Discretionary reissue after revocation or lifting of suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary licence
The licence was revoked or suspended. The division may reissue it or lift suspension when four or more division members vote in favour for reasons the division considers sufficient.
Individual order
Satisfy the applicable disciplinary order and any restoration conditions imposed by the division. O.C.G.A. 43-41-10(f) does not identify a required examination for this procedure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination through a new qualifying agent

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Expedited military initial licensure by examination

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Joint venture qualified by all licensed contracting members
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Category
Member licences must authorize the work in the relevant contractor category.
Existing members
Every member doing business as a residential or commercial general contractor must hold a valid current Georgia licence, as an individual or through its qualifying agent. Each such individual or qualifying agent becomes a qualifying agent of the joint venture.
Organization
A joint venture is a separate organization for licensing. This route uses all licensed members under O.C.G.A. 43-41-9(c)(2); using a separate organization licence under paragraph (c)(1) follows the company issuance routes.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board guide statement
The current Board guide states: "A late renewal period is available from July 1 – July 31." This shorter published administrative period is recorded for the applicant alongside the controlling 45-day statute.
Continuing education
Residential Basic requires three hours each year; Residential Light Commercial requires six hours each year, with official attendance records maintained for two years and subject to audit or hardship relief.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Late period
HB 579, effective July 1, 2026, makes O.C.G.A. 43-1-4(b) applicable notwithstanding conflicting provisions of Title 43 and allows renewal up to 45 days after expiration upon satisfaction of requirements and fees. Section 43-41-6(i) and older Board rules still state six months; those conflicting periods do not control over the later express notwithstanding provision.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial issuance based on an approved military specialty or certification
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board bulletin statement
The PSI bulletin states: "Exam and Business & Law Exam." in its ordinary Residential Light Commercial issuance instructions. Those ordinary instructions are subject to the statutory military-specialty initial-issuance exception.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military qualification
A current or former military member must have an approved military specialty or certification whose training and experience meet or exceed residential light commercial licensing requirements; apply within 180 days after an honourable or general discharge with documentation prescribed by the division director.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Special initial issuance
O.C.G.A. 43-41-18(c) directs immediate initial issuance upon satisfaction of that section, including financial and insurance requirements. Ordinary renewal provisions apply afterward. Military training or certification testing is applicant evidence, not a registered examination leaf.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New organization affiliation through an already licensed contractor
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Existing licence
The applicant already holds a continuously maintained Georgia individual or qualifying-agent licence in the same category; submit the new affiliation application and organization financial and insurance evidence.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New licence after organization structure change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Structure change
A change in business organization structure, such as corporation to LLC, requires a new application; an already licensed qualifying agent may qualify the new organization without examination after financial and insurance review.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a current Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must hold a current, valid Georgia licence in the same category.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a former Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must have previously been issued a Georgia licence in the same category; furnish required continuing education for each inactive biennium if the division requires it.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of an inactive licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide Board-required approved continuing education for each inactive biennium, when required for the licence type.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Good standing
Provide evidence of good standing in every jurisdiction in which the licensee has ever been licensed.
Inactive licence
The Georgia licence is inactive. Submit the reactivation application and required fee.
Insurance
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization registration
For an organization licence or affiliated qualifying agent, provide active and compliant Georgia Corporations Division registration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after failure to renew

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Division discretion
Rule 553-12-.06(3) permits denial, approval with conditions, or retaking the licensure examination. The examinations are retained because they may be required; whether this applicant must retake them is for the division to decide.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Lapsed continuing education
Submit required approved continuing education for each biennium while the licence was lapsed.
Lapsed licence
The licence has expired beyond the late renewal period. Submit the reinstatement application and fee; the division may require a new-application level of documentation.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Biennial timely renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Residential Basic requires three hours each year; Residential Light Commercial requires six hours each year, with official attendance records maintained for two years and subject to audit or hardship relief.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Voluntary inactive or retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current licence
Hold a valid current Georgia contractor licence and submit the inactive-status application and fee.
Inactive practice
Refrain or retire from active practice; do not contract or hold out as available. Continuing education and renewal fees are not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Residential Light Commercial Contractor Individual

Licensure in the Residential Light Commercial Contractor category as an individual acting in their own name or as a sole proprietor.

Licensing authority: State Licensing Board for Residential and Commercial General Contractors · Application information

Discretionary reissue after revocation or lifting of suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary licence
The licence was revoked or suspended. The division may reissue it or lift suspension when four or more division members vote in favour for reasons the division considers sufficient.
Individual order
Satisfy the applicable disciplinary order and any restoration conditions imposed by the division. O.C.G.A. 43-41-10(f) does not identify a required examination for this procedure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Expedited military initial licensure by examination

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Late renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board guide statement
The current Board guide states: "A late renewal period is available from July 1 – July 31." This shorter published administrative period is recorded for the applicant alongside the controlling 45-day statute.
Continuing education
Residential Basic requires three hours each year; Residential Light Commercial requires six hours each year, with official attendance records maintained for two years and subject to audit or hardship relief.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Late period
HB 579, effective July 1, 2026, makes O.C.G.A. 43-1-4(b) applicable notwithstanding conflicting provisions of Title 43 and allows renewal up to 45 days after expiration upon satisfaction of requirements and fees. Section 43-41-6(i) and older Board rules still state six months; those conflicting periods do not control over the later express notwithstanding provision.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial issuance based on an approved military specialty or certification
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board bulletin statement
The PSI bulletin states: "Exam and Business & Law Exam." in its ordinary Residential Light Commercial issuance instructions. Those ordinary instructions are subject to the statutory military-specialty initial-issuance exception.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military qualification
A current or former military member must have an approved military specialty or certification whose training and experience meet or exceed residential light commercial licensing requirements; apply within 180 days after an honourable or general discharge with documentation prescribed by the division director.
Special initial issuance
O.C.G.A. 43-41-18(c) directs immediate initial issuance upon satisfaction of that section, including financial and insurance requirements. Ordinary renewal provisions apply afterward. Military training or certification testing is applicant evidence, not a registered examination leaf.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a current Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must hold a current, valid Georgia licence in the same category.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a former Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must have previously been issued a Georgia licence in the same category; furnish required continuing education for each inactive biennium if the division requires it.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of an inactive licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide Board-required approved continuing education for each inactive biennium, when required for the licence type.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Good standing
Provide evidence of good standing in every jurisdiction in which the licensee has ever been licensed.
Inactive licence
The Georgia licence is inactive. Submit the reactivation application and required fee.
Insurance
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization registration
For an organization licence or affiliated qualifying agent, provide active and compliant Georgia Corporations Division registration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after failure to renew

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Division discretion
Rule 553-12-.06(3) permits denial, approval with conditions, or retaking the licensure examination. The examinations are retained because they may be required; whether this applicant must retake them is for the division to decide.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Individual scope
The licence authorizes the individual or sole proprietorship; work for a separate business organization requires qualifying-agent and organization licensing.
Lapsed continuing education
Submit required approved continuing education for each biennium while the licence was lapsed.
Lapsed licence
The licence has expired beyond the late renewal period. Submit the reinstatement application and fee; the division may require a new-application level of documentation.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.
Biennial timely renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Residential Basic requires three hours each year; Residential Light Commercial requires six hours each year, with official attendance records maintained for two years and subject to audit or hardship relief.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Voluntary inactive or retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current licence
Hold a valid current Georgia contractor licence and submit the inactive-status application and fee.
Inactive practice
Refrain or retire from active practice; do not contract or hold out as available. Continuing education and renewal fees are not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Residential Light Commercial Contractor Qualifying Agent

Licensure in the Residential Light Commercial Contractor category as an individual acting for an affiliated business organization.

Licensing authority: State Licensing Board for Residential and Commercial General Contractors · Application information

Inactive status after qualifying agent disaffiliation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disaffiliation
Notify the Board using the disaffiliation form; the qualifying-agent licence becomes inactive after affiliation ends, and organization licensing depends on a replacement qualifying agent.
Replacement period
O.C.G.A. 43-41-9(e)(1), amended by SB 503, supplies 180 days for replacement and application. Older Rules 553-10-.01 and 553-11-.02 still state 120 days; the controlling statute governs.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Discretionary reissue after revocation or lifting of suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disciplinary licence
The licence was revoked or suspended. The division may reissue it or lift suspension when four or more division members vote in favour for reasons the division considers sufficient.
Individual order
Satisfy the applicable disciplinary order and any restoration conditions imposed by the division. O.C.G.A. 43-41-10(f) does not identify a required examination for this procedure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Expedited military initial licensure by examination

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military status
Expedited processing is available to a military spouse or a transitioning service member who is on active duty or separation leave within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation. All requirements for the applied-for licence and fees continue to apply.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Passing score credit
A previously passed Georgia Business & Law examination satisfies the business and law requirement for other residential and general contractor licences. A registered currently offered examination remains in the requirement tree even when its existing passing score may be used.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.
Published vendor instructions
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states one year of eligibility and two attempts on first approval. HB 635 amended O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(g) to permit reexamination at any regularly scheduled examination without a new application unless submitted information is inaccurate or incomplete; the bulletin and older rules retain earlier limits. Confirm scheduling and eligibility instructions with the Board.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Late renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board guide statement
The current Board guide states: "A late renewal period is available from July 1 – July 31." This shorter published administrative period is recorded for the applicant alongside the controlling 45-day statute.
Continuing education
Residential Basic requires three hours each year; Residential Light Commercial requires six hours each year, with official attendance records maintained for two years and subject to audit or hardship relief.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Late period
HB 579, effective July 1, 2026, makes O.C.G.A. 43-1-4(b) applicable notwithstanding conflicting provisions of Title 43 and allows renewal up to 45 days after expiration upon satisfaction of requirements and fees. Section 43-41-6(i) and older Board rules still state six months; those conflicting periods do not control over the later express notwithstanding provision.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial issuance based on an approved military specialty or certification
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board bulletin statement
The PSI bulletin states: "Exam and Business & Law Exam." in its ordinary Residential Light Commercial issuance instructions. Those ordinary instructions are subject to the statutory military-specialty initial-issuance exception.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Military qualification
A current or former military member must have an approved military specialty or certification whose training and experience meet or exceed residential light commercial licensing requirements; apply within 180 days after an honourable or general discharge with documentation prescribed by the division director.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Special initial issuance
O.C.G.A. 43-41-18(c) directs immediate initial issuance upon satisfaction of that section, including financial and insurance requirements. Ordinary renewal provisions apply afterward. Military training or certification testing is applicant evidence, not a registered examination leaf.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New organization affiliation through an already licensed contractor
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Existing licence
The applicant already holds a continuously maintained Georgia individual or qualifying-agent licence in the same category; submit the new affiliation application and organization financial and insurance evidence.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a current Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must hold a current, valid Georgia licence in the same category.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Prior approval based on a former Georgia licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Board guide statement
The Board guide sometimes adds passing the required examination to its description of prior approval. Rule 553-11-.03 and the comparison chart allow prior approval without examination, including a licence originally issued through reciprocity or exemption. The guide states: "If you have previously held this same license and have completed all requirements, including passing the required exam, apply for licensure by Prior Approval."
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Prior approval
Submit the prior approval application, supporting documents and fee; otherwise meet licensure requirements and not violate the chapter. Rule 553-11-.03 expressly provides issuance without examination.
Prior licence
The individual applicant or affiliated qualifying agent must have previously been issued a Georgia licence in the same category; furnish required continuing education for each inactive biennium if the division requires it.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of an inactive licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide Board-required approved continuing education for each inactive biennium, when required for the licence type.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Good standing
Provide evidence of good standing in every jurisdiction in which the licensee has ever been licensed.
Inactive licence
The Georgia licence is inactive. Submit the reactivation application and required fee.
Insurance
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization registration
For an organization licence or affiliated qualifying agent, provide active and compliant Georgia Corporations Division registration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after failure to renew

All of the following:

Affiliations
Disclose affiliated persons, entities and business organizations and the applicable Social Security number or federal taxpayer identification number.
Age
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must be at least 21 years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, required supporting documents and fee; licensure remains subject to the appropriate division approval.
Character
The individual applicant or qualifying agent must demonstrate good character, competency, ability and integrity.
Division discretion
Rule 553-12-.06(3) permits denial, approval with conditions, or retaking the licensure examination. The examinations are retained because they may be required; whether this applicant must retake them is for the division to decide.
Experience
One of: an acceptable baccalaureate degree and one year of qualifying experience; four aggregate years of acceptable college coursework and verifiable qualifying experience; or four years of verifiable construction industry experience including two years as or employed by a residential contractor or equivalent accepted by the division. Experience in the latter two alternatives must be supported by an employer or other knowledgeable person affidavit under oath.
Financial responsibility
Evidence of financial responsibility by $25,000 net worth, bank credit reference, $25,000 surety bond, $25,000 line of credit, or $25,000 letter of credit.
Financial timing
Under O.C.G.A. 43-41-6(e)(2), financial responsibility and insurance must be shown before licence issuance, but not before permission to take an examination.
Lapsed continuing education
Submit required approved continuing education for each biennium while the licence was lapsed.
Lapsed licence
The licence has expired beyond the late renewal period. Submit the reinstatement application and fee; the division may require a new-application level of documentation.
Liability and workers compensation
$500,000 general liability per occurrence; workers compensation when required by Georgia law.
Organization
The Board guide applies reinstatement to the same affiliated company; applying for a different company uses prior approval or the appropriate issuance route.
Organization finances
Insurance and financial proof pertain to the affiliated business organization.
Projects
Significant responsibility for successful completion of at least two residential light commercial projects in the four years immediately before application.
Qualifying agent
A qualifying agent affiliated by employment or ownership must supervise and be responsible for the organization construction work, with final approval authority over construction, contracts, performance and financial matters, documented by the required affidavit.
Biennial timely renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Residential Basic requires three hours each year; Residential Light Commercial requires six hours each year, with official attendance records maintained for two years and subject to audit or hardship relief.
Existing licence
Renew an existing licence biennially; submit the renewal application, fees and required insurance and financial affirmations.
Renewal deadline
June 30 of even-numbered years, as stated in the Board rule and guide.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Voluntary inactive or retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current licence
Hold a valid current Georgia contractor licence and submit the inactive-status application and fee.
Inactive practice
Refrain or retire from active practice; do not contract or hold out as available. Continuing education and renewal fees are not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Georgia Business & Law Exam (Residential and General Contractors)

Provider
PSI Services LLC
Format
Computer administered, open book written examination
Exam questions
50
Time limit
120 minutes
Passing score
70% (35 correct)
Examination outline
  • Licensing Requirements
  • Estimating and Bidding
  • Business Organization and Financial Management
  • Tax Laws
  • Labor Laws
  • Project Management and Lien Law
  • Contracts
  • Risk Management
  • Environmental and Safety
Examination sources

Residential - Basic Contractor Exam

Provider
PSI Services LLC
Format
Computer administered, open book written examination
Exam questions
80
Time limit
200 minutes
Passing score
70% (56 correct)
Examination outline
  • Sitework, Footings and Foundation
  • Concrete and Concrete Reinforcement
  • Masonry
  • Carpentry
  • Roofing
  • General Code and Construction Knowledge
  • Associated Trades
  • OSHA Safety
Examination sources

Residential – Light Commercial Exam

Provider
PSI Services LLC
Format
Computer administered, open book written examination
Exam questions
90
Time limit
230 minutes
Passing score
70% (63 correct)
Examination outline
  • Sitework, Footings and Foundation
  • Concrete and Concrete Reinforcement
  • Metals
  • Masonry
  • Carpentry
  • Roofing
  • General Code and Construction Knowledge
  • Associated Trades
  • OSHA Safety
Examination sources