What are NCLBGC License Levels?
The North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors (NCLBGC) issues three levels of contractor licenses. Each level determines the maximum dollar value of construction projects a contractor can undertake. The license level is based on the contractor's financial qualifications, experience, and examination results.
Any contractor working on a project valued at $30,000 or more in North Carolina must hold a valid NCLBGC license. The level of license required depends on the total value of the construction project.
License Level Comparison
| License Level | Max Project Value | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Unlimited | No limit | Highest financial qualifications, most experience required |
| Intermediate | $1,000,000 | Moderate financial qualifications and experience |
| Limited | $500,000 | Entry-level financial qualifications |
Unlimited License
An Unlimited license is the highest level issued by the NCLBGC. Contractors with this license can undertake construction projects of any value in North Carolina, with no cap on project size.
To qualify for an Unlimited license, contractors must demonstrate significant financial resources, extensive construction experience, and pass the NCLBGC licensing examination. This is the most common license level among established general contractors in NC.
The majority of the 76,160 licensed contractors in our directory hold an Unlimited license, reflecting the maturity and financial strength of North Carolina's construction industry.
Intermediate License
An Intermediate license allows contractors to work on projects valued up to $1,000,000. This level is suitable for mid-sized residential and commercial construction projects.
Contractors with an Intermediate license have demonstrated moderate financial qualifications. Many contractors start at this level and upgrade to Unlimited as their business grows and their financial position strengthens.
Limited License
A Limited license restricts contractors to projects valued up to $500,000. This is the entry-level license issued by the NCLBGC.
Despite the name, a Limited license still covers a wide range of residential construction projects including single-family homes, renovations, additions, and smaller commercial work. Contractors at this level have passed the same licensing examination as Unlimited and Intermediate licensees.
How to Check a Contractor's License Level
You can check any contractor's license level on NCContractorCheck by searching their name or license number. Each contractor listing shows their current license level, status (Active or Expired), and all other license details from NCLBGC records.
For official verification, visit the NCLBGC official portal.