North Carolina renewal guide
General Contractor License (Unlimited)
If this license is up for renewal, this page gives you the fee, the timeline, and the items that usually hold the filing up.
Start here
What matters before you file.
Check the fee, the renewal window, and the documents or insurance records that can slow approval down.
Issuing authority
Renewal period
Every 12 months
Renewal fee
$125.00
Late penalty
$10.00
Bond requirement
No
Insurance requirement
No
Continuing education
8 hours
Before you renew
Get the filing straight.
- 1
Finish the CE first
Complete the 8 required hours before you start the renewal.
- 2
File with the board
File through North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors (NCLBGC) and pay the $125.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online - 3
Leave room for processing
Typical processing time is 60 days, so do not wait until the last minute.
If you miss the deadline, the late penalty is $10.00, with a 30-day grace period.
Detailed notes
The fine print is here.
North Carolina General Contractor License (Unlimited)
The Unlimited General Contractor license is issued by the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors (NCLBGC). This is the highest tier license, allowing contractors to undertake projects of any value.
Requirements
- Threshold: License required for projects valued at $40,000 or more
- Examination: Must pass the NASCLA (National Accredited Building) Examination
- Financial: Audited financial statement by CPA showing adequate net worth and working capital
- Experience: Demonstrated construction experience
- Age: Must be at least 18 years old
- Character: Good moral character as determined by the Board
Financial Requirements
The Unlimited license requires the highest level of financial stability. If net worth or working capital thresholds are not met, a $1,000,000 surety bond may be posted as an alternative.
Renewal Information
- Renewal Period: Annual (by January 1)
- Renewal Fee: $125
- Late Fee: $10 for renewals after December 31
- Continuing Education: 8 hours per year
Scope of Work
Unlimited license holders can:
- Undertake construction projects of any value
- Perform commercial and residential construction
- Manage and supervise all project types
- Bid on public works projects
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the NCLBGC.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- Examination Results
- Financial Statement
- Experience Documentation
Source notes
NCLBGC . N.C. Gen. Stat. §87-1 et seq., 21 NCAC 12A (classifications). nclbgc.org. Verified March 2026.
Rules move. Check North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors (NCLBGC) again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.
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