Plumbing Contractor Requirements in Tennessee (2026)
Complete guide to plumbing contractor requirements in Tennessee. State license required for projects over $25,000 through the TN Board for Licensing Contractors.
State license required for projects over $25,000 through the TN Board for Licensing Contractors. Issued by: TN Board for Licensing Contractors. A licensing exam is required.
Quick Facts
License Type
Plumbing Contractor
Estimated Total Cost
$200 - $1,500 (varies by jurisdiction)
Processing Time
2-8 weeks typical
Renewal Period
1-2 years (varies)
How to Get Your Plumbing Contractor in Tennessee
Register your business entity
Register your LLC or corporation with the Tennessee Secretary of State. You'll need this before applying for any licenses.
Obtain your EIN
Apply for a federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This is free and can be done online at irs.gov.
Meet experience requirements
Tennessee requires verifiable experience in the trade. Check with the licensing board for specific requirements.
Pass required exams
Tennessee requires passing a licensing exam. Study materials are typically available from the testing provider.
Get required insurance
Obtain general liability insurance (typically $500K-$1M minimum) and workers' compensation insurance if you have employees.
Obtain surety bond if required
Check if Tennessee or your local jurisdiction requires a surety bond. Your insurance agent can help with this.
Submit your license application
File your application with TN Board for Licensing Contractors along with all required documentation and fees.
Register for state and local taxes
Register for Tennessee sales tax and any applicable local business taxes.
Insurance Requirements in Tennessee
Minimum: $500,000 - $1,000,000 (varies by jurisdiction)
Required in most states when you have 1+ employees
$5,000 - $25,000 bond required in some states and cities
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This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Licensing requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements with Tennessee's official licensing board and consult a local attorney for legal questions. Last updated: April 2026.