How to Get a General Contractor License in Georgia

Published: Mar 12, 2024

One question that our customers regularly ask is how the contractor licensing process works in Georgia. So, this article will explore the contractor licensing requirements, how to get a Georgia general contractor license, and some of the insurance and bonding requirements you will need to know to ensure your business is successful. Read on to learn more.

Thanks to our industry connections and experience in the surety bond sector, Lance Surety has helped thousands of businesses get the best bond premiums in the US. However, we are also here to support you through the various processes you need to set your business up for success, and with our how-to-guides and eBooks you can find the information you need on a huge range of topics.

General Contractor Licensing Requirements in Georgia

Within the State of Georgia, anyone undertaking works over $2,500 and all general residential contractors are required to have a license. Currently, there are four different types of Georgia contractor licenses required by the state, each with a different remit on the type of work that can be undertaken, and the contract amounts they are eligible for. Below, we list the four main types of general contractor license currently available in Georgia.

General Contractor License — Eligible for private, commercial, industrial, public, and other projects over $2500.
General Contractor Limited Tier License — Eligible for private, commercial, industrial, public, and other projects up to $1,000,000.
Residential Basic Contractor License — Eligible for contracts on one- and two-family residences and townhouses of no more than three stories.
Residential-Light Commercial Contractor License — Eligible for contracts on one- and two-family homes and townhouses plus multifamily and multi-use commercial buildings of no more than four stories and 25,000 sq ft.

However, while these licenses are needed at state-level, there are also a range of local-level requirements such as bonding requirements, insurance requirements, and building permits. You can find out more information on the requirements at your location using the links below.

Step-by-Step Licensing Process

While each municipality may have differing requirements in order for you to work on projects within their borders, the contractor license application is standardized, with only a few different requirements depending on the type of license you need. Follow the steps below and explore the Georgia State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors for a broad range of information on the application process, renewals, and other resources.

Check Eligibility — To apply for a contractor license in Georgia, you must be at least 21 years old, be a US citizen or qualified alien, pass a criminal background check, and submit the application fee. In addition, you need to provide proof of net worth, obtain general liability insurance and proof of worker’s compensation insurance. Finally, you must have one of the following:
- A degree from an accredited university and one year of work experience in engineering, architecture, construction management, project management, or building construction.
- Four years of experience or contractor training in a field related to the construction industry.
- Academic and relevant work experience equalling at least four years in a related field.
Prepare Documentation — Gather all required documentation, including proof of education, work experience, financial statements, and any other materials specified in the application requirements.
Get Insurances and Bond — You will need to get all insurances relevant to the type of license and the location and send proof along with your application. For more information on the amount of the surety bond you will need, read our table below or contact us for a quote.

Submit Application — You can access application forms on the Georgia Secretary of State website for all types of license. You can also track you application here.
Pass Exams — There are two examinations you must pass before you are successfully licensed. These are the Business and Law Exam and NASCLA Construction Exam and you can find more information on the exam application on the

Insurance & Bonding Requirements

Here, we look at the Georgia contractor license bond amounts you will need to post before you can apply for a license in the State of Georgia. Remember, these may be subject to change so you should always check with the relevant municipality. In addition, you will need to understand the different types of insurances you will require. These may include general liability insurance, worker’s compensation insurance, commercial auto insurance, builder’s risk insurance, and others.

Bond	Bond Amount
State Board for Residential and General Contractors Bond	$25,000
Department of Revenue Non-resident Contractors Tax Bond	$1,000 - $100,000
Department of Revenue Non-resident Subcontractor Sales and Use Tax Bond	$1,000 - $100,000
Augusta/Richmond County Contractor Bond (specialty contractors)	$5,000
Augusta/Richmond County Contractor Bond (residential contractors)	$15,000
Augusta/Richmond County Contractor Bond (commercial contractors)	$20,000
Bibb County Contractor Bond	$1,000 - $25,000
City of Douglasville Residential Contractor Bond	$1,000 - $25,000
City of East Point General Contractor Bond	$25,000
City of East Point Tradesman Contractor Bond	$10,000
City of Grovetown Contractor Bond (electrician & low voltage, plumber, mechanical HVAC)	$1,000
City of Grovetown Contractor Bond (specialty contractor or handyman, pool installer, landscaper, sprinkler system for yard)	$5,000
City of Grovetown Contractor Bond (residential general contractor)	$15,000
City of Grovetown Contractor Bond (commercial general contractor)	$20,000
City of Harlem Contractor Bond (electrical, plumbing, mechanical contractor)	$1,000
City of Harlem Contractor Bond (pool contractors, landscapers, roofers, yard sprinkler installers)	$5,000
City of Harlem Contractor Bond (residential contractor)	$15,000
City of Harlem Contractor Bond (commercial contractor)	$20,000
City of Lincolnton Contractor Bond	$15,000
City of Lilburn Contractor Bond	$25,000
City of Kennesaw Contractor Bond	$10,000
City of Smyrna Contractor Bond	$15,000
City of Thomson Contractor Bond	$5,000
City of Valdosta Contractor Bond	$1,000- $25,000
Columbia County Contractor Bond	$1,000
Lincoln County Contractor Bond	$15,000
McDuffie County Contractor Bond (subcontractor)	$1,000
McDuffie County Contractor Bond (general or residential contractor)	$5,000
Newton County Residential Maintenance Bond	$1,000 - $100,000

For more information on how Lance Surety Bonds can help you understand the surety bond costs for your new general contractor business, use our online form for a free quote or contact a member of the team today to discuss your specific requirements.

Robin Kix

Robin Kix is our Renewal Department Manager. During her 10 years in the surety industry, she helped thousands of businesses throughout the nation remain compliant at the federal, state and local level. She has significant experience supporting commercial bond lines, particularly in the automobile, transportation and construction industries. Robin and her team work together to create a positive customer service experience at the time of every policy renewal, whether that be finding the best pricing or offering additional assistance.