Everything we wish someone had told us.
Free guides covering every part of the Tennessee contractor licensing process. Use these to figure out what you actually need before you spend a dollar.
The basics.
Start here if you're new to the Tennessee contractor licensing process.
Tennessee License Types
BC, RB, Limited Residential, Home Improvement, Specialty. Each classification has different requirements, monetary limits, and use cases. This guide explains which one fits which kind of work.
Read GuideThe Application Process
Step by step walkthrough of every part of the Tennessee contractor license application. Documents you'll need, the order to gather them in, where each one gets submitted, and how long each step typically takes.
Read GuideTotal Cost Breakdown
What it actually costs to get licensed in Tennessee, line item by line item. State fees, exam costs, books, the CPA financial statement, the surety bond, insurance, and the hidden costs most applicants don't see coming.
Read GuideFree Application Checklist
Single page PDF you can print and take through the application with you. Every step, every document, every fee. Use it to track your progress and avoid missing things.
Download FreeDeep dives.
For specific situations and detailed questions.
The Business and Law Exam
Two hours, open book. Sounds easy. It isn't. What's actually on the exam, which reference books matter, how to prepare in 20 hours instead of 200.
Coming soon
The Trades Exam
Four hours, also open book, and covers more ground than any working contractor would ever know off the top of their head. The strategy for getting through it.
Coming soon
The CPA Financial Statement
What it is, why Tennessee requires it, how to find a CPA who actually understands the contractor version, and what your monetary limit will mean for the jobs you can bid.
Coming soon
Reciprocity for Out of State Contractors
If you're licensed in another state and moving to Tennessee, what carries over and what doesn't. The rules are specific and the path is different for everyone.
Coming soon
Surety Bonds Explained
Tennessee requires a surety bond. What it is, what it costs, where to get one, and why it's not the same thing as insurance.
Coming soon
Spotting the Scams
Within days of registering your business, you'll get letters that look official. Some of them are. Most aren't. How to tell the difference and protect your wallet.
Coming soon
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