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State files updated Oct 27, 2026
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North Carolina Contractor License Renewal: Deadline, Fee, CE Hours

Licenses expire on the first day of January after issue or renewal and become invalid 60 days later unless renewed.1 8 hours every year for at least one qualifier on Building, Residential and Unclassified licenses: 2 mandatory hours plus 6 elective hours.1

TradeRenewalContinuing education
General contractorLicenses expire on the first day of January after issue or renewal and become invalid 60 days later unless renewed.18 hours every year for at least one qualifier on Building, Residential and Unclassified licenses: 2 mandatory hours…1
ElectricalLicenses expire one year after issuance.3Each listed qualified individual: 8 hours per license year for Unlimited, Intermediate, Limited and Residential…4
Plumbing and HVACLicenses expire December 31 each year.5None.6
RoofingSame as the General Contractor license: expires January 1 each year, 60-day grace.1The 8-hour CE rule applies only to Building, Residential and Unclassified licenses.1

When does a North Carolina contractor license expire?

Licenses expire on the first day of January after issue or renewal and become invalid 60 days later unless renewed; renewals need proof of continued financial responsibility and CE. A license invalid for four years is archived and cannot be renewed (G.S. 87-10(e)-(f)).1

How many continuing education hours does North Carolina require?

8 hours every year for at least one qualifier on Building, Residential and Unclassified licenses: 2 mandatory hours plus 6 elective hours; up to 4 elective hours carry forward. Classroom/live instruction only (G.S. 87-10.2).1

How much is the North Carolina renewal fee?

Annual renewal fees are capped by statute at the same $75/$100/$125; late renewal $10 per month after January 1.2

Sources

  1. NC Licensing Board for General Contractors: renewal (ncleg.gov, 2026-10-27)
  2. NC Licensing Board for General Contractors: fees (nclbgc.org, 2026-10-27)
  3. NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors: electrical renewal (ncleg.gov)
  4. NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors: electrical continuing education (ncbeec.org)
  5. NC State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating & Fire Sprinkler Contractors: plumbing renewal (ncleg.gov)
  6. NC State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating & Fire Sprinkler Contractors: plumbing continuing education (nclicensing.org)