Louisiana contractor license requirements
An overview of who regulates contractors in Louisiana, when you need a license, the license types available and how the qualifying party fits in.
Who issues contractor licenses in Louisiana?
Contractor licensing in Louisiana is overseen by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC).
When do you need a license?
Louisiana requires a Commercial license for commercial projects of $50,000 or more (lower thresholds apply to certain trades such as electrical, mechanical and plumbing work), a Residential Building license for residential projects over $75,000, and a Home Improvement registration for residential remodeling between $7,500 and $75,000.
Classifications
Building Construction, Highway/Street/Bridge, Heavy Construction, Municipal & Public Works, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing and many specialty classifications.
The Qualifying Party requirement
A Louisiana license must be held through a Qualifying Party — an individual who has passed the trade exam(s) and the Business & Law exam and who is a full-time employee, officer or owner of the licensed business.
Don’t have one? We can place a licensed qualifying party with your business.
License types & levels
Commercial
Building construction, heavy construction, municipal & public works, and dozens of specialty classifications.
Residential
Residential building contractors and residential specialty subclassifications.
Home Improvement & Mold
Home improvement registration and mold remediation licensing.
How to get licensed in Louisiana
- Determine the license type and classifications you need.
- Secure a Qualifying Party who has passed the trade and Business & Law exams — or let us place one with you.
- Prepare a financial statement meeting the board’s net worth requirement for your classifications.
- Register the business with the Louisiana Secretary of State and apply with LSLBC.
- Maintain general liability and workers’ compensation coverage and renew annually.
This page is a general overview. Thresholds, fees and requirements change — confirm current rules with the LSLBC or call us for a review of your situation.
Need a bond for your license?
Many Louisiana state and local licenses require a surety bond. Buy yours online in minutes.
Get help with your Louisiana contractor license
Tell us a little about your business and the work you do. A Contractor Licensing Inc. specialist will follow up with the exact license you need, the steps, and a clear quote.
- License applications prepared for you
- Business entity setup in as little as 2–3 days
- Qualifying Party placement if you don’t have one
- Bonds & insurance through Artisan Insurance Inc.
Ready to get licensed in Louisiana?
Talk to a licensing specialist today — we handle the paperwork so you can keep working.