Before you start working as a Georgia general contractor, you will need to obtain a license from the Georgia Secretary of State. Getting a license is an important step that ensures the safety and quality of construction work in the state. If you’re looking to become a licensed general contractor in the state of Georgia, there are certain steps you need to take. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of getting your Georgia general contractor license.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Meet Initial Requirements
Before applying for a license, you must meet certain requirements set by the state of Georgia. These include being at least 18 years old and having four years of construction-related experience within the last ten years. You’ll also need to provide proof that you have completed an approved pre-licensing course or apprenticeship program.
Step 2: Determine What Kind of License You Need
Once you’ve met the initial requirements, it’s time to decide what kind of license you need. The most common type is the Full Commercial General Contractor license, which allows you to build and renovate any structure in the state. If your work will be limited to residential or light commercial projects, then you can apply for a Residential – Light Commercial Contractor license instead.
Step 3: Complete an Application and Pay the Fees
The next step is to complete an application form and submit it along with all required documentation and fees. The application fee is $200 and is non-refundable. You may also need to purchase liability insurance and a surety bond before submitting your application. When all the documents are submitted and fees paid, you can expect to hear back from the state within 45 days.
Step 4: Take an Exam
Once your application has been approved, you’ll need to take an exam in order to get your license. This exam covers topics such as building codes, safety regulations, business practices, and more. Once you’ve passed the exam, your license will be issued by the state of Georgia Board of Construction Industry Licensing (GCIL). You’ll also need to pay an additional $200 fee for the license. This fee is also non-refundable.
Step 4: Obtain a Surety Bond and Insurance
In order to be legally recognized as a Georgia general contractor, you’ll need to obtain a surety bond and liability insurance. The surety bond must be for $10,000 and will protect your clients from any financial losses that may occur due to your negligence. The insurance coverage must also meet the minimum requirements set by the state of Georgia.
Step 5: Maintain Your License
Once you have obtained your license, you must maintain it by keeping up with any changes in laws or regulations related to general contracting in Georgia. You should also make sure that all workers on job sites are properly trained and certified for their specific tasks. Failure to do so could result in fines or other penalties from GCIL or other regulatory agencies.
Conclusion
Getting a Georgia general contractor license is an important step toward becoming a successful and responsible tradesman in the state. Make sure you meet all the requirements, apply for the license through the Georgia Construction Industry Licensing Board, and remain compliant with all continuing education demands to keep your license up-to-date. With a valid license, you can perform all the duties required of a Georgia contractor and provide quality service to your customers.
