How to Become a Licensed Contractor in Nevada

In Nevada, you must complete the board licensing process before becoming a licensed contractor according to The Nevada Revised Statute (NRS) 624.7. The Nevada State Contractors Board licenses the following classifications:

• Class A – General Engineering Contractor
• Class B – General Building Contractor
• Class C – Specialty Contractor

Requirements for Nevada Contractors

To become a licensed general or specialty contractor in Nevada, you must meet specific eligibility requirements. You need at least four years of experience in the classification you are applying for as a journeyman, foreman, supervisor or contractor.

You may also fulfill up to three years of experience by providing proof of education, technical training or apprenticeship at an accredited college or university.

How to Get a Nevada Contractor License

If you meet the eligibility requirements, follow the six-step process below to become a licensed contractor in Nevada

Step 1: Get your business license

To get your business license, visit SilverFlume Nevada's Business Portal to complete the online application. Once you receive your business ID from the Secretary of State, you can move forward.

Step 2: Select a contractor license classification

Before starting your contractor’s license application, research what specific classification you want. Each of the three main classifications has subtypes or specialty classifications to choose from. The NAC Chapter 624 has the complete list and descriptions of each subclassification.

Step 3: Gather information for your application

The contractor's license application requires various information and documentation. It’s best to gather the following materials before starting your application:

• Documentation of your experience
• Resume with past and current employment
• Background disclosure statement*
• Fingerprint background waiver*
• Copies of driver’s licenses or government-issued IDs* 
• Financial statement that meets requirements in section 11 of the application
• Child support information statement (sole proprietors only)

Note: All items marked with an asterisk are required by all persons listed on the application.

Step 4: Fill out your application 

After collecting all documentation and forms, begin filling out your application. Use the printable form or the online portal. Read all the instructions carefully and leave nothing blank. If a question or form does not apply to you, write “N/A” in the space. 

Once complete, turn in your application at one of the following locations:

• Las Vegas: 8400 West Sunset Road, Suite 150, Las Vegas, NV 8911 
• Reno: 5390 Kietzke Lane, Suite 102, Reno, NV 89511 
• Henderson: 2310 Corporate Circle, Suite 200, Henderson, NV 89074 

Submit a check, cashier’s check, or money order for $300, payable to "Nevada State Contractors Board" or "NSCB," with your application.

For further assistance, attend the Nevada State Contractors Board’s application assistance program.

Step 5: Take your license exam 

You are required to pass a business and law exam as well as a trade exam to get a Nevada contractor license. After your application is approved, you will receive an exam eligibility letter with information to schedule your exams.

The Board provides more exam information by class and FAQs on their license examinations page. Nevada contractor exams cost $140 when scheduled together and $95 each if scheduled separately.

Step 6: Purchase surety bond and insurance policies

Next, you must obtain a surety bond in the amount the Board requires. The bond amount varies between $1,000 to $500,000 and is determined by factors such as: 

• License classification
• Monetary limit of the license
• Work experience

If you have more than one license class, you may need multiple bonds. You can buy your Nevada contractor's board license bond from SuretyBonds.com starting at just $100.

Step 7: Submit proof of insurance

All Nevada contractors are required to provide proof of compliance with industrial insurance coverage, or workers’ compensation to maintain, activate or renew a license. You also need to register with the state Residential Recovery Fund.

Finally, file your surety bond and insurance coverage with the Board and pay the $600 licensing fee. Most licenses are issued within 45 days after the board receives the application.

How to Renew Your Contractor License

Nevada contractor licenses need to be renewed every two years. You can renew your license using the online portal by following the steps on the Board’s license renewals page.  

Your contractor bond expires annually and must be renewed to keep your license active. When you choose SuretyBonds.com, you'll receive renewal instructions and an invoice to keep your bond active before your term ends.  

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Contractor License in Nevada 

The cost of becoming a licensed contractor in Nevada is typically around $1,140– $1,590. Exact pricing will vary depending on your license classification, exam fees, surety bond requirements and ongoing insurance coverage. You can expect the following upfront expenses:

• $300 application fee
• $600 licensing fee
• $140–$190 exam fee
• $100–$500 surety bond*

*This estimate reflects SuretyBonds.com contractor license bond rates. 

More Resources 

• How to Become a Licensed Contractor 
• Forms and Applications – Nevada State Contractors Board 
• Nevada State Contractors Board: Bond Requirements
• Nevada State Contractors Board: Surety Bond Form
• Nevada Contractors License Application
• Nevada State Contractors Board: Overview Of Contractor License Requirements For Nevada