At a Glance: Nevada Contractor License
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Licensing Board | Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB) |
| License Types |
|
| License Threshold | $1,000 in combined labor and materials |
| Application Fee | $200–$1,500 depending on license level |
| Exam Required | ✅ Yes |
| Exam Provider | PSI Exams |
| Exam Cost | $100–$150 |
| Experience Required | 4 years verifiable experience |
| Insurance Required | General Liability ($500,000); Workers' Comp required |
| License Renewal | Annual; $200–$1,000 |
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Nevada Contractor License
- Choose license class (A, B, or C specialty)
- Document 4 years qualifying experience
- Pass Nevada Business & Law exam and trade exam
- Obtain liability insurance and workers' comp
- Apply to NSCB; background check required
- License issued in 30–60 days
Exam Requirements
Provider: PSI Exams
Cost: $100–$150
Topics covered: Nevada Business & Law, Trade Knowledge
Most state contractor exams test two main areas: Business & Law (contracts, lien law, workers' comp, licensing regulations) and Trade Knowledge (construction practices, building codes, safety). Prepare for both sections — even experienced contractors struggle with the Business & Law portion without dedicated study.
Study Resources
- PSI Candidate Handbook (available on PSI website — free, covers exactly what's on the exam)
- ICC Study Guides for code-based exams
- Contractor's Business & Law Study Guide by Craftsman Book Company
- Online prep courses from Contractor Exam Prep and similar providers
Insurance & Bonding Requirements
General Liability ($500,000); Workers' Comp required
Beyond what Nevada requires, consider these coverage types for complete protection:
- General Liability: Protects against third-party bodily injury and property damage claims
- Workers' Compensation: Required if you have employees; protects against job-site injury claims
- Commercial Auto: Your personal auto policy won't cover your work truck
- Inland Marine (Tools & Equipment): Covers tool theft from job site or vehicle
Reciprocity
Nevada has the following reciprocity agreements with other states:
- California (exam waiver possible)
Important: Reciprocity agreements change over time. Always contact the Nevada licensing board directly to confirm current reciprocity status before assuming your out-of-state license qualifies for expedited licensure.
Important Notes for Nevada
Nevada has very active enforcement, especially in Las Vegas. The NSCB investigates unlicensed contractors aggressively. $1,000 threshold means almost all work requires a license.
Official Resources
- Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB) — Official Website
- PSI Exams — Schedule Your Contractor Exam
- Contractor Insurance Guide
- Contractor Bonding Guide
- How to Start a Construction Business
Always verify requirements directly with the Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB). Requirements, fees, and exam procedures change frequently — this guide is updated periodically but may not reflect the most recent changes.