North Carolina — How to Check a Contractor's License

North Carolina requires contractors to hold a state license for projects exceeding $40,000 in labor and materials. The North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors (NCLBGC) oversees licensing, complaints, and disciplinary actions.

Step 1: Get the Contractor's License Number

Any legitimate contractor in North Carolina should readily provide their license number. It should appear on their business card, vehicle, website, and advertising. If a contractor refuses to share their license number, don't hire them.

Step 2: Verify the License

Visit the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors (NCLBGC) website to look up the contractor's license. We're working on adding North Carolina license data to our search tool — check our North Carolina page for updates.

When checking the license, verify:

• Status is "Active" — not expired, suspended, or revoked
• Name matches — the business name on the license should match who you're hiring
• Classifications cover your project — a plumbing license doesn't cover electrical work
• License won't expire during your project

Step 3: Check Bond and Insurance

North Carolina requires licensed contractors to carry a surety bond ($5,000–$1,000,000+ (varies by license tier: Limited, Intermediate, Unlimited)). The bond protects consumers if the contractor violates state regulations or abandons a project. Ask the contractor for proof of their bond, and verify it through the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors (NCLBGC).

Step 4: Check Complaint History

The North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors (NCLBGC) tracks complaints filed against licensed contractors. Before hiring, check if the contractor has any past disciplinary actions, complaints, or violations. Visit the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors (NCLBGC) website to check complaint history.

What Happens if You Hire an Unlicensed Contractor?

Hiring an unlicensed contractor in North Carolina puts you at risk:

• Your homeowner's insurance may not cover work done by unlicensed contractors
• You have limited legal recourse if the work is defective
• No surety bond to file claims against
• Unpermitted work can cause problems when selling your home
• No bond protection — the bond is your safety net

How to Report an Unlicensed Contractor in North Carolina

If you suspect a contractor is working without a license in North Carolina, report them to the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors (NCLBGC). Unlicensed contracting is typically a misdemeanor and carries fines and potential jail time.

Other States

Looking up a contractor in a different state? Visit our state-by-state contractor license lookup page to find the right verification tool for your state.