Louisiana Contractor Licenses: Updated Requirements Guide
Louisiana administers contractor licensing at the state level through the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC) and, for individual plumbers, the State Plumbing Board of Louisiana (SPBLA). Contractors obtain commercial or residential licenses with trade classifications such as Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Roofing, and other specialties. Plumbers working as natural persons progress through journeyman and master licenses regulated by SPBLA.
Because classification selection drives which exams and documents you will need, it pays to review the LSLBC’s Examinations/Classifications list before you apply. We highlight several representative licenses and authorities for Louisiana below; this guide is updated periodically as additional information becomes available or as readers request specific coverage.
Use the Quick Navigation to jump to your trade. Each section summarizes the responsible authority, scope, exam expectations, and practical application tips, with official references so you can verify current requirements directly with the boards.
Quick Navigation
Overview of Louisiana Contractor Licensing
The Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors regulates commercial and residential contractor licenses and administers trade classifications, including Building Construction, Residential Construction, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Roofing, Hazardous Materials, Mold Remediation, and numerous specialty scopes. Contractor licenses are issued to businesses with a designated qualifying party who demonstrates the trade knowledge and experience necessary for the classifications requested. Classification selection determines which trade exam(s) are required.
The State Plumbing Board of Louisiana licenses natural persons as journeyman and master plumbers. Statutes specify eligibility and examination standards, including supervised work hours for journeyman exam eligibility and additional experience for the master exam. Contractors that perform plumbing as a contracting entity use LSLBC’s Plumbing classification, while individual plumbers progress through SPBLA’s journeyman and master credentials.
LSLBC also administers a separate Mold Remediation license and a Home Improvement Contractor registration. Detailed rules, statutory authority, and the official classification list are available on the LSLBC website, while plumbing licensure statutes and SPBLA resources clarify journeyman/master pathways and testing.
Browse all Louisiana contractor license practice tests →
Electrician Licenses in Louisiana
Louisiana regulates electrical work with 1 license type.
Electrical (Major Classification)
Regulatory Authority
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors — https://lslbc.gov
Scope and Classification
The Electrical major classification is issued by LSLBC and is selected as part of a contractor’s commercial or residential license. Major classifications define a broad scope of work under board rules, and holders add subclassifications or specialties as needed to match the firm’s contracting activities.
Examination
Exam required: Yes. Exam provider: Contact LSLBC to verify the current exam provider and scheduling process.
Eligibility
Applicants designate a qualifying party responsible for the electrical trade classification. The qualifying party must demonstrate competence through examination and any board-required documentation supporting experience.
Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors to confirm fees, insurance minimums, experience requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Official Reference
Plumbing Licenses in Louisiana
Louisiana regulates plumbing work with 3 license types.
Journeyman Plumber License (Journeyman)
Regulatory Authority
State Plumbing Board of Louisiana — https://spbla.org
Scope and Classification
The journeyman license is a personal license authorizing the holder to perform plumbing work under applicable supervision and board rules. It is distinct from the contractor’s Plumbing classification issued by LSLBC to business entities.
Examination
Exam required: Yes — written and practical (manual) examinations approved, recognized, or administered on behalf of SPBLA. Exam provider: Contact SPBLA to verify current exam administration details.
Eligibility
Experience: Completion of 2,500 hours of verified work as an apprentice plumber in accordance with board rules.
Contact the State Plumbing Board of Louisiana to confirm fees, insurance minimums, and renewal details before applying.
Official Reference
Louisiana RS 37:1367 (Journeyman and Master Plumbers)
Exam Prep: PDF study guide with 1,500-2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline; no time or use limits. Louisiana Journeyman Plumber Practice Test.
Master Plumber License (Master)
Regulatory Authority
State Plumbing Board of Louisiana — https://spbla.org
Scope and Classification
The master plumber license is a personal credential authorizing the holder to perform and supervise plumbing work consistent with SPBLA rules. Eligibility builds on journeyman licensure and additional verified experience.
Examination
Exam required: Yes — written master plumber examination approved, recognized, or administered on behalf of SPBLA. Exam provider: Contact SPBLA to verify current exam administration details.
Eligibility
Prerequisite and experience: Hold a current journeyman plumber license and complete 1,000 hours of verified work as a licensed journeyman plumber.
Contact the State Plumbing Board of Louisiana to confirm fees, insurance minimums, and renewal details before applying.
Official Reference
Louisiana RS 37:1367 (Journeyman and Master Plumbers)
Exam Prep: PDF study guide with 1,500-2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline; no time or use limits. Louisiana Master Plumber Practice Test.
Plumbing (Major Classification)
Regulatory Authority
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors — https://lslbc.gov
Scope and Classification
The Plumbing major classification is selected by contractor entities seeking to contract plumbing work within the scope defined by LSLBC rules. It is attached to a commercial or residential contractor license as appropriate to the firm’s project types.
Examination
Exam required: Yes. Exam provider: Contact LSLBC to verify the current exam provider and testing logistics.
Eligibility
Applicants designate a qualifying party for the Plumbing classification and submit required business documentation with their LSLBC application.
Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors to confirm fees, insurance minimums, experience requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Official Reference
HVAC Licenses in Louisiana
Louisiana regulates HVAC contractors with 1 license type.
Mechanical (Major Classification)
Regulatory Authority
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors — https://lslbc.gov
Scope and Classification
The Mechanical major classification covers HVAC and related mechanical scopes as defined by LSLBC. Firms add this classification to their state contractor license to bid and contract for mechanical work within Louisiana.
Examination
Exam required: Yes. Exam provider: Contact LSLBC to verify the current exam provider and exam scheduling steps.
Eligibility
Applicants must designate a qualifying party and submit required organizational and financial documentation with their LSLBC application.
Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors to confirm fees, insurance minimums, experience requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Official Reference
General Contractor Licenses in Louisiana
Louisiana general contractor licensing includes 5 types.
Building Construction (Major Classification)
Regulatory Authority
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors — https://lslbc.gov
Scope and Classification
The Building Construction major classification authorizes contracting for building projects within the scope defined by LSLBC rules. Firms may add subclassifications and specialties as needed to align with their service offerings.
Examination
Exam required: Yes. Exam provider: Contact LSLBC to confirm the current exam provider and any business/law testing components applicable to your application.
Eligibility
Applicants designate a qualifying party and provide required organizational, financial, and insurance documentation consistent with LSLBC application instructions.
Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors to confirm fees, insurance minimums, experience requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Official Reference
Contractors Licensing Law and Rules (“Blue Book”)
Exam Prep: PDF study guide with 1,500-2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline; no time or use limits. Louisiana Building Construction Exam Practice Test.
Residential Construction (Major Classification)
Regulatory Authority
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors — https://lslbc.gov
Scope and Classification
This major classification authorizes contracting for residential construction within the parameters defined by LSLBC rules. Residential subclassifications (such as Residential Roofing or Residential Swimming Pools) may be added to tailor scope.
Examination
Exam required: Yes. Exam provider: Contact LSLBC to confirm the current exam provider and exam components for your classification.
Eligibility
Applicants designate a qualifying party and submit business documentation and financials in accordance with LSLBC application requirements.
Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors to confirm fees, insurance minimums, experience requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Official Reference
Contractors Licensing Law and Rules (“Blue Book”)
Exam Prep: PDF study guide with 1,500-2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline; no time or use limits. Louisiana Residential Construction Practice Test.
Highway, Street, and Bridge Construction (Major Classification)
Regulatory Authority
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors — https://lslbc.gov
Scope and Classification
This major classification authorizes contracting for highway, street, and bridge projects within the scope established by LSLBC rules. Subclassifications may be attached to refine authorized activities.
Examination
Exam required: Yes. Exam provider: Contact LSLBC to verify the current exam provider and any additional testing applicable to this classification.
Eligibility
Applicants must identify a qualifying party and provide required business, financial, and insurance documentation in the LSLBC application.
Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors to confirm fees, insurance minimums, experience requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Official Reference
Heavy Construction (Major Classification)
Regulatory Authority
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors — https://lslbc.gov
Scope and Classification
The Heavy Construction major classification covers heavy civil and related scopes as defined by LSLBC rules. Firms may add specialties to align with particular heavy construction services.
Examination
Exam required: Yes. Exam provider: Contact LSLBC to verify the current exam provider and testing format for this classification.
Eligibility
Applicants designate a qualifying party and submit supporting business documentation and financial information per LSLBC application standards.
Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors to confirm fees, insurance minimums, experience requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Official Reference
Municipal and Public Works Construction (Major Classification)
Regulatory Authority
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors — https://lslbc.gov
Scope and Classification
This major classification authorizes contracting for municipal and public works projects, subject to the scope definitions and rules adopted by LSLBC. Subclassifications may refine the firm’s authorized activities.
Examination
Exam required: Yes. Exam provider: Contact LSLBC to confirm the current exam provider and scheduling procedures.
Eligibility
Applicants must designate a qualifying party and provide business, financial, and insurance documentation consistent with LSLBC requirements.
Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors to confirm fees, insurance minimums, experience requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Official Reference
Roofing Licenses in Louisiana
Louisiana regulates roofing contractors with 2 license types.
Roofing (Subclassification — Building Construction)
Regulatory Authority
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors — https://lslbc.gov
Scope and Classification
This subclassification attaches to a Building Construction license for roofing scopes defined by LSLBC. Subclassifications narrow the authorized work under the firm’s broader major classification.
Examination
Exam required: Yes. Exam provider: Contact LSLBC to verify the current exam provider and exam components for roofing.
Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors to confirm fees, insurance minimums, experience requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Official References
Residential Roofing (Subclassification — Residential Construction)
Regulatory Authority
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors — https://lslbc.gov
Scope and Classification
This subclassification attaches to a Residential Construction license for residential roofing scopes as defined by LSLBC. It tailors the firm’s residential authorization to roofing activities.
Examination
Exam required: Yes. Exam provider: Contact LSLBC to verify the current exam provider and exam content for residential roofing.
Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors to confirm fees, insurance minimums, experience requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Official References
Specialty Trade Licenses in Louisiana
Louisiana regulates specialty trades with 5 license types.
Hazardous Materials (Major Classification)
Regulatory Authority
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors — https://lslbc.gov
Scope and Classification
Hazardous Materials is a major classification issued by LSLBC. Firms select this classification to contract for hazardous materials work as defined by board rules and applicable law.
Examination
Exam required: Yes. Exam provider: Contact LSLBC to verify the current exam provider and logistics.
Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors to confirm fees, insurance minimums, experience requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Official Reference
Mold Remediation (Major Classification)
Regulatory Authority
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors — https://lslbc.gov
Scope and Classification
Mold Remediation is a distinct state license regulated by LSLBC. Firms add this classification to perform mold remediation work in accordance with LSLBC’s scope definitions and rules.
Examination
Exam required: Yes. Exam provider: Contact LSLBC to verify the current exam provider and testing process for this license.
Insurance
Liability insurance required: Yes (specific limits should be confirmed with LSLBC).
Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors to confirm fees and renewal details before applying.
Official References
Water Well Drilling (Specialty Classification)
Regulatory Authority
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors — https://lslbc.gov
Scope and Classification
Water Well Drilling is a specialty classification that narrows the scope of work attached to a contractor license. It is selected by firms that drill water wells within the scope defined by LSLBC.
Examination
Exam required: No.
Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors to confirm fees, insurance minimums, experience requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Official Reference
Residential Swimming Pools (Subclassification — Residential Construction)
Regulatory Authority
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors — https://lslbc.gov
Scope and Classification
This subclassification attaches to a Residential Construction license to authorize residential swimming pool work as defined by LSLBC. Subclassifications tailor the firm’s residential authorization to specific scopes.
Examination
Exam required: Yes. Exam provider: Contact LSLBC to verify the current exam provider and exam content for this subclassification.
Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors to confirm fees, insurance minimums, experience requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Official Reference
Home Improvement Contractor Registration (Credential / Registration)
Regulatory Authority
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors — https://lslbc.gov
Scope and Classification
Home Improvement is a state registration administered by LSLBC. It is distinct from a contractor license and applies to home improvement activities defined by LSLBC’s rules and guidance.
Examination
Exam required: No.
Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors to confirm fees, insurance minimums, experience requirements, and renewal details before applying.
Official Reference
Application Process
- Determine whether work falls under commercial license, residential license, mold remediation license, or home improvement registration and whether project values exceed statutory thresholds.
- Select appropriate major classifications, subclassifications, or specialty classifications from the LSLBC Examinations/Classifications list.
- Designate a qualifying party with relevant experience for contractor licenses and assemble required supporting documents (financial statements, corporate registration, insurance, etc.).
- Submit license application and fees to the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors or, for journeyman/master plumbers, to the State Plumbing Board of Louisiana.
- Schedule and pass any required trade and business-related examinations for the selected classifications.
- Upon approval and successful examination results, receive license issuance and maintain compliance with renewal and continuing requirements.
Timeline: Processing and examination scheduling commonly takes several weeks from complete application submission, varying by classification and board workload.
Before you file, review the LSLBC Types of Licenses page to ensure you are applying under the correct category, and confirm whether any subclassifications or specialties are needed to cover your full scope of services. For individual plumbers, verify journeyman or master eligibility with SPBLA, including the supervised hours and exam format.
To avoid delays, ensure your qualifying party’s documentation (experience outline, passing exam results, and any requested references) is organized and consistent with the classification you selected. Maintain accurate financial statements and business registrations so the board can validate organizational status without additional correspondence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a contractor license in Louisiana?
Processing and examination scheduling commonly takes several weeks from complete application submission, varying by classification and board workload.
Can I transfer my license from another state to Louisiana?
Reciprocity and endorsement options, if any, depend on the classification and the licensing authority. Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors or the State Plumbing Board of Louisiana to review any current policies for your classification.
What happens if I fail the exam?
Retake policies, waiting periods, and rescheduling fees are set by the board and/or exam provider. Confirm the current policy when you schedule your exam.
Do I need insurance?
Insurance requirements are set by classification and license type. For example, Mold Remediation requires liability insurance. Verify minimums and documentation requirements with LSLBC (and with SPBLA for individual plumbers if applicable).
How do I renew my license?
Renewal cycles and continuing requirements vary by license type and classification. Review renewal instructions on the LSLBC website, and for journeyman/master plumbers, consult SPBLA for current renewal procedures.
What if my city or parish has additional requirements?
Louisiana contractor licensing for the trades covered here is issued by state boards. Local jurisdictions may still require project permits, inspections, and business registration. Always confirm local permitting requirements with the authority having jurisdiction before starting work.
Where can I find practice tests for Louisiana exams?
We offer comprehensive PDF practice tests for Louisiana contractor license exams. Each test typically contains 1,500 to 2,500 code-relevant questions with precise answer keys and reference locators showing exact code sections. Study offline at your own pace; no time or use limits. Browse Louisiana contractor practice tests.
Louisiana · Practice tests
Louisiana contractor license practice tests
The Louisiana practice tests we publish today: comprehensive PDF guides, typically 1,500 to 2,500 questions each, with full answer keys and reference locators to the exact code sections. We add new tests regularly, so if your license isn’t listed here, contact us and we’ll build it.
- Business, Law, and Project Management (NASCLA) Reference Practice Test
- Installing Hardwood Flooring NOFMA - Reference Practice Test
- Louisiana (New Orleans) W16 National Standard Master Electrician License Practice Test
- Louisiana (New Orleans) W17 National Standard Journeyman Electrician License Practice Test
- Louisiana (New Orleans) W19 National Standard Maintenance Electrician License Practice Test
- Louisiana Building Construction Exam Practice Test
- Louisiana Carpentry License Practice Test
- Louisiana Residential Construction License Practice Test
- National Electrical Code (NEC) 2017 Practice Test
Related Official Resources
Official Sources for Further Details:
-
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors – Exams Classifications
https://lslbc.gov/exams-classifications/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-11 -
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors – Types of Licenses
https://lslbc.gov/types-of-licenses/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-11 -
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors – Contractors Licensing Law and Rules (Blue Book)
https://www.lslbc.louisiana.gov/wp-content/uploads/blue_book.pdf
State Statute/Board Rules | Accessed: 2026-09-11 -
Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors – Classifications Added to Existing Commercial and Residential Licenses
https://lslbc.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/9_Sept-Add-Classes-All.pdf
Official Board Site/Fee Schedule | Accessed: 2026-09-11 -
Louisiana Laws – RS 37:1367 (Journeyman and Master Plumbers)
https://www.legis.la.gov/Legis/LawPrint.aspx?d=93229
State Statute | Accessed: 2026-09-11 -
Louisiana Laws – Plumber Licensing Provisions
https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/Law.aspx?d=93230
State Statute | Accessed: 2026-09-11 -
Louisiana Legislature – ACT No. 908 / House Bill provisions on Master Plumbing
https://www.legis.la.gov/Legis/ViewDocument.aspx?d=1481528
State Statute | Accessed: 2026-09-11 -
Louisiana Legislature – Plumbing Board authority provisions
https://www.legis.la.gov/Legis/ViewDocument.aspx?d=1479986
State Statute | Accessed: 2026-09-11
Important Disclaimer
Information Currency: This guide reflects licensing information as available in 2026. Licensing requirements are subject to change without notice. Always verify current requirements with official sources.
Official Source: For current information, contact Multiple Authorities – See research notes:
- Website: https://lslbc.gov
- Phone: 225-765-2301
No Legal Advice: This guide provides general information only. Consult with the licensing board or a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.
Local Considerations: State boards issue the contractor licenses discussed here. Cities and parishes administer building permits, inspections, and local business registration; confirm local permitting requirements before starting work.