Kentucky Contractor License Classifications
Indexation gate: passedKentucky credentials contractors through the state Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC) for specialized mechanical trades, paired with local county and municipal building authorities for general building contractors. Review the classification catalog below.
Statewide & Municipal Classifications Catalog
Electrical Contractor (EC) License
Legal Citation: KRS § 227A.060
Statewide business license issued by the Kentucky DHBC authorizing an individual, partnership, or corporation to engage in the business of electrical contracting across the Commonwealth.
Notes: Requires employing a licensed Master Electrician as qualifying agent, $500,000 general liability insurance, and workers' comp compliance.
Master Electrician (ME) License
Legal Citation: KRS § 227A.060
Statewide trade credential issued by Kentucky DHBC to individuals qualified by 6 years experience or approved trade training plus examination to supervise and direct electrical work.
Notes: Required qualifier for electrical contracting firms. Requires 6 hours annual continuing education.
Master Plumber License
Legal Citation: KRS § 318.030
Statewide occupational license issued by the Kentucky DHBC Division of Plumbing authorizing the holder to advertise, contract, bid, plan, and supervise plumbing installations.
Notes: Requires minimum 2 years as a licensed journeyman plumber and passing the state examination. Plumbing businesses must carry liability insurance.
Journeyman Plumber License
Legal Citation: KRS § 318.030
Statewide trade license authorizing an individual to install, alter, or repair plumbing systems under the direction and supervision of a licensed Master Plumber.
Notes: Requires completing 2 years of plumbing apprentice experience and passing the state journeyman plumber exam.
Master HVAC Contractor License
Legal Citation: KRS § 198B.658
Statewide contractor license issued by the Kentucky DHBC Division of HVAC authorizing the holder to contract for the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Notes: Requires passing the state HVAC trade examination, 2 years journeyman experience, $500,000 liability insurance, and 8 hours annual CE.
Local General Contractor License
Legal Citation: Local Municipal Ordinances (e.g. Louisville Metro Code § 150.065)
Municipal or county contractor license required by local jurisdictions for general building, residential remodeling, framing, and roofing in the absence of a statewide general contractor license.
Notes: Kentucky has no statewide GC license; local jurisdictions enforce contractor licensing, bonding, and building permits independently.