How to get a contractor license in Kentucky
The short version: 1) Louisville 2) Lexington. (source: Louisville Metro: Obtain a Contractor's License (opens in a new tab), source: Lexington: How to register as a contractor (opens in a new tab))
How: There is no state general contractor license to look up. For plumbing or electrical work ask HBC; otherwise check with your city or county. (source: Kentucky HBC (opens in a new tab))
Checked against official Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction sources. See sources.
Step by step
- Louisville Get a liability insurance certificate and a Jefferson County occupational license number, then apply on the Metro online portal. (source: Louisville Metro: Obtain a Contractor's License (opens in a new tab))
- Lexington Get a home office certificate or certificate of occupancy, an occupational business license and insurance, then register online. (source: Lexington: How to register as a contractor (opens in a new tab))
Costs and fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Lexington Home Office Certificate A Certificate of Occupancy is $25 instead. | $10 (source: Lexington: How to register as a contractor (opens in a new tab)) |
Fees are set by the board and can change. Check the official fee page before you pay.
Sources and last verified
Last verified: . Next check due: . Every fact on this page links to one of these official pages.
- Kentucky HBC (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
- Louisville Metro: Obtain a Contractor's License (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
- Lexington: How to register as a contractor (opens in a new tab) (checked Oct 24, 2026)
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