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North Carolina contractor examWho gives it, fees, retakes
North Carolina's contractor license needs a passing exam score. The exam fee is up to $1001.
What is on the North Carolina contractor exam?
- The exam
- The qualifier (the person the license rests on) must pass the Board's exam for each classification, plus NC laws, rules and building code. Passing score is 70 (21 NCAC 12A.0404). Exam fee is capped by statute at $100. Applicants must be 18, of good moral character, and show financial responsibility.1
- Exam fee
- up to $1001
Retake rules: check with NC Licensing Board for General Contractors.
Journeyman and master exams in North Carolina
Plumber
- Who gives it
- A Board-approved outside exam provider. The Board emails approved applicants the provider's contact details; schedule within 90 days and bring approved reference books. Exams are 4 hours for plumbing or heating technicians2
HVAC
- Who gives it
- A Board-approved outside exam provider. The Board emails approved applicants the provider's contact details; schedule within 90 days and bring approved reference books. Exams are 4 hours for plumbing or heating technicians2
How do you book the exam?
Apply to the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors first. The board approves your application, then tells you how to schedule with the testing company. NC Licensing Board for General Contractors
Sources
- NC Licensing Board for General Contractors: exam (ncleg.gov, 2026-10-27)
- North Carolina plumber license: exam (nclicensing.org, 2026-10-27)