How much does a General Contractor license cost in New Jersey?

Getting a General Contractor license in New Jersey costs $790 upfront (exam fee $340, application fee $250, license fee $200). Renewal runs $250 every 2 years.

How much do licensed general contractors earn in New Jersey?

Licensed general contractors in New Jersey earn a median salary of $74,750/year, compared to $55,200/year without the license.

How many CE hours are required to renew a General Contractor license in New Jersey?

New Jersey requires 20 continuing education hours every 2 years to renew a General Contractor license.

General Contractor Licenses › New Jersey

General Contractor License Cost in New Jersey 2026: $790 Fees, $75K Salary

Getting a General Contractor license in New Jersey costs $790 upfront. At state-adjusted salaries, that pays back in 0.5 months.

General Contractor License in New Jersey — Key Numbers

$790

Upfront Cost

$75K

Median Salary (Licensed)

$250

Renewal (every 2 yrs)

0.5 mo

Payback Period

Salary data: BLS OEWS 2024 state estimates. Fees: state licensing board schedules.

General Contractor License Cost Breakdown — New Jersey

Exam fee $340

Application fee $250

Initial license fee $200

Total upfront $790

Renewal fee (every 2 yrs) $250

CE hours required per cycle 20 hours

Salary without license (New Jersey) $55,200/yr

Salary with license (New Jersey) $74,750/yr

5-year net ROI $97K

Licensing body: New Jersey Contractors Licensing Board. Verify current fees before applying — schedules change.

General Contractor License in New Jersey — What to Know

New Jersey requires state-level contractor licensing, which typically includes a trade exam, financial responsibility documentation, and proof of insurance. The $75K median for licensed contractors in New Jersey reflects strong construction demand in the state's metros. Licensed GCs in New Jersey can pull permits, take on unlimited-value projects, and hire subcontractors directly. The exam covers building codes, contract law, and business practices. Insurance and bonding requirements add to the ongoing cost beyond the license fee itself.

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