North Carolina licensing
Licensing in North Carolina — Sources checked
Who and what this applies to
General contracting as defined by Chapter 87, Article 1.
Thresholds and scope
The usual undertaking threshold is $40,000 or more; erection of a qualifying North Carolina labeled modular building is separately included.
The rules
- Covered general contracting includes bidding, constructing, or undertaking covered management/supervision of buildings, highways, utilities, grading and improvements at the $40,000 threshold. Source
- Exceptions include specified industrial equipment/monuments, qualifying owner construction for sole occupancy complying with section 87-14, and qualifying farmer construction on owned farming land. Failure of sole occupancy for 12 months creates the statutory presumption against that owner exemption. Source
- Unauthorized contracting/bidding and use of another person’s, expired or revoked license are prohibited and subject to Class 2 misdemeanor penalties. Source
Primary sources
Sources reviewed 2026-09-30. This guide covers the projects and rules stated above.
Not legal advice. This is general legal information. Laws and project facts differ; confirm the applicable requirements for your project.
Back to North Carolina contractor law · Licensing topic guide.
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