General contractor · Licensing by state

How to become a general contractor

From state licensing boards and the U.S. Department of Labor · Last reviewed October 10, 2026

General contractor licensing by state

"n/a" means the state has no such statewide figure, or states it another way (years, or by local license). "No" exam can mean the state licenses only contractors. Each state page has the details and sources; the reciprocity map shows which states.

The usual license ladder

1. Laborer, helper, or apprentice

   Many people start as construction laborers or helpers, who learn on the job, or as apprentices in a trade such as carpentry. [3][4]

2. Journey-level tradesworker or foreman

   Construction experience is especially important for people without a bachelor's degree. To qualify through experience alone, you need many years in carpentry, masonry, or another construction specialty. [1]

3. Licensed contractor

   Some states require a license. California, for example, licenses contractors by class of work and requires at least four years of journey-level, foreman, contractor, or owner-builder experience in the class before you can take the exam. [1][2]

4. Construction manager

   Construction managers typically need a bachelor's degree and learn management on the job. Large firms may prefer both construction experience and a construction-related degree. [1]

Pay and job outlook

What general contractors do

The BLS covers general contractors in its profile of construction managers, who it says are "often called general contractors or project managers." The BLS also draws a distinction: either one oversees the construction phase of a project, but a construction manager may also consult with the client during the design phase to help refine plans and control costs. Construction managers plan, coordinate, budget, and supervise construction projects from start to finish: homes, commercial and industrial buildings, and roads and bridges.

Typical tasks include preparing cost estimates, budgets, and schedules; choosing and scheduling subcontractors; working with architects and engineers; and making sure the project meets building and safety codes. Most work full time, some more than 40 hours a week, and they may be on call for emergencies. [1]

Route 1: years in a construction trade

Firms might hire as managers people who have a high school diploma and many years of experience in a construction trade. The BLS notes that people on this route may be more likely to work as self-employed general contractors than to be hired as construction managers. To qualify through experience alone, you need many years in carpentry, masonry, or another construction specialty.

A common starting point is work as a construction laborer or helper. They learn on the job and may start by shadowing experienced workers, and employers often require OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) safety training. After gaining experience, laborers may supervise staff, oversee jobsites, or start their own business.

Carpentry is another route in. Carpenters typically learn on the job or through apprenticeships sponsored by unions and contractor associations, and they may advance to lead carpenter, supervisor, or independent contractor. More on that path: carpenter apprenticeships. Union and non-union (open-shop) routes are compared in union vs. non-union. [1][3][4]

Route 2: a construction management degree

Construction managers typically need a bachelor's degree in construction, business, engineering, or a related field. These programs often include project control and management, design, construction methods and materials, and cost estimation. Some managers earn an associate's degree in construction management or construction technology; combined with work experience, that may be typical for those who supervise small projects.

New construction managers usually start as assistants under an experienced manager for up to a year, sometimes several years. Internships and cooperative education programs help students gain experience. [1]

Contractor licenses: it depends on your state

Some states require construction managers (the BLS group that includes general contractors) to be licensed, so contact your state licensing board.

California is one example. Its Contractors State License Board (CSLB) requires at least four years of experience in the class you apply for, counted only at journey level or as a foreman, supervising employee, contractor, or owner-builder. CSLB may credit up to three of those years for education or training. For example, up to three years for a completed apprenticeship or a four-year degree in construction technology or management, and up to 1.5 years for an associate degree in building or construction management. At least one year must be practical experience. Details: California general contractor license.

Pick your state from the list on this page for its own rules. [1][2]

Pay and job outlook

These figures cover all construction managers, not just general contractors. The median annual wage for construction managers was $114,990 in May 2025. The lowest 10% earned less than $69,690 and the highest 10% more than $189,440. Median pay was $126,690 in nonresidential building construction and $98,390 in residential building construction. Managers may also earn bonuses, and earnings depend on the amount of business they generate.

The BLS projects 9% job growth from 2025 to 2035, much faster than average. It expects work retrofitting buildings for energy efficiency to create jobs for general contractors in particular. For comparison, carpenters earned a median $60,580 and construction laborers and helpers $46,680 in May 2025. [1][3][4]

Questions people ask