In the state of Georgia, there are different types of contractor licenses issued depending on the scope and specialty of work. Obtaining the proper license is necessary for contractors to legally operate and perform construction services. This article will discuss the main categories of Georgia contractors license and the requirements to get licensed.
General Contractor License
The general contractor license, also known as the residential basic contractor license, allows contractors to undertake general contracting work on residential projects. This is one of the most commonly held licenses in Georgia.
To qualify for a general contractor license, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Pass a written examination administered by PSI Examinations Services
- Have at least 4 years of experience working as a supervisor or project manager on residential building projects
- Submit verification of experience directly from former employers or clients
- Provide proof of a minimum $10,000 general liability insurance policy
- Pay the initial license fee of $380
With a general contractor license, permit holders can legally contract and oversee residential construction projects such as single-family homes, duplexes, apartments, and condominiums. The license also covers additions, alterations, repairs and remodeling of residential buildings.
Residential Light Commercial Contractor License
For contractors who work on larger residential projects or small non-residential buildings, a residential light commercial contractor license is required. This license allows permit holders to undertake work on:
- Apartment buildings up to 4 stories tall
- Hotels and motels up to 3 stories tall with less than 25 guest rooms
- Office buildings up to 3 stories tall
- Retail buildings up to 3 stories tall with less than 3,000 square feet
- Restaurants and other commercial buildings up to 3,000 square feet
To qualify for a residential light commercial license, the license requirements are similar to a general contractor license but applicants need a minimum of 2 years of verifiable supervisory experience on light commercial projects. The initial licensing fee is also higher at $430.
Licensed Trade Contractors
Licensed trade contractors hold permits specific to their construction trade or subcontracting specialty. Some of the main trade contractor licenses in Georgia include:
Electrical contractor
- Plumbing contractor
- Low voltage contractor
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) contractor
- Fire sprinkler contractor
- Utility/storage tank contractor
The application process and requirements to obtain a trade contractor license varies depending on trade but typically involve:
- Relevant work experience in the trade
- Passing a state trade-specific exam
- Providing proof of liability insurance
- Payment of licensing fees
Licensed trade contractors are authorized to independently provide their specialized services on construction projects without needing further permits.
Commercial General Contractor License
For large commercial construction, building owners and general contractors often require a state commercial general contractor license.
Key requirements to qualify for a commercial general contractor license in Georgia:
- Minimum of 4 years of verifiable field experience as project manager or supervisor on commercial projects
- Passing score on commercial general contractor licensing exam
- $250,000 minimum commercial general liability insurance policy
- Payment of $500 license fee
With a commercial general contractor license, permit holders can undertake commercial projects of unlimited size including office buildings, factories, warehouses, hotels, hospitals, and other non-residential construction over 3,000 square feet.
Specialty Contractor Classifications
For unique construction scopes, Georgia also issues licenses under specialty contractor classifications including:
Concrete Contractor
- Pile driving contractor
- Roofing contractor
- Swimming pool contractor
- House moving contractor
- Sign erection contractor
- Solar energy system contractor
- Utility contractor
Specialty licenses allow independent operation within their specialized field on all project types once eligibility requirements are met, which includes work experience, exams, and insurance.
Maintaining a Contractor License
Once obtained, Georgia contractor’s license must be renewed every two years. Renewal involves completing continuing education courses, paying renewal fees, and ensuring insurance coverage remains active and adequate for the license type and business operations. Contractors are also responsible for following all relevant construction codes and laws to maintain licenses in good standing.
Benefits of Licensing
Maintaining the proper type of contractor license is important for legitimacy and legal permissions to operate a construction business in Georgia. Licensed contractors can also benefit from:
- Being listed in the state licensing database for client and job searches
- Potential tax deductions and credits available to licensed businesses
- Access to specialty contractor associations and networking opportunities
- Compliance with contracting laws to avoid penalties or lawsuits
- Trust and credibility gained with property owners and permit authorities
In conclusion, Georgia contractors have multiple license options available depending on their scope of work. Proper licensing allows construction firms to legally perform services, uphold quality standards, and experience professional growth in the industry. Contractors are advised to closely follow state guidelines to obtain and maintain their licenses in good standing.
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