Painter license requirements by state: A comprehensive guide

Page summary:

• Painter licensing varies by state; some require contractor licenses only above job-value limits, while others rely on local registration or none.
• Many states often require exams, experience, bonds and proof of insurance to bid jobs, especially for larger projects or contractor classifications.
• Lead-based paint work often requires separate training or certification; insurance requirements may apply if you hire staff or drive for work.

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Do you need a license to start a painting business? The answer depends on where you work and the type of projects you take on.

Some states require painters to hold a contractor license once jobs reach certain dollar thresholds, while others rely on registration or local rules instead. This guide breaks down painter license requirements in all 50 states, including when a license may be needed, how to get one, and what to expect during the process. We’ll also explain how painter insurance can help protect your business as you grow.

(We also have state guides for other trades, including general contractors, handypersons, electricians, HVAC, landscapers and plumbers.)

Jump ahead:

• States A-E
• States F-J
• States K-O
• States P-T
• States U-Z

This list is in alphabetical order and includes links to additional resources.

Alabama

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

You only need to be licensed in Alabama for work over $100,000. You can apply for a license through the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors to work above that threshold.

Future licensees must get the Alabama Finishes contractor license. Applicants need to be approved by the state to sit the examination. Additionally, they must also have passed the Alabama business and law exam. PSI Exams administers both tests.

You’ll also need to provide a financial statement, proof of experience (three previous projects) and three reference letters. There is a $300 application fee and a $150 fee for subcontractors.

If your painting work involves lead-based paint, you may need to complete EPA-approved lead safety training and follow federal and state requirements. This typically applies to contractors performing renovation, repair, painting, or abatement work on pre-1978 homes and buildings.

Recent or upcoming changes: As of October 2024 update from the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors, the project cost threshold that typically triggers a state contractor license increased from $50,000 to $100,000.

Required business insurance in Alabama:

• You’ll may need proof of general liability insurance coverage in Alabama for licensing.
• Alabama requires workers’ compensation if you have five or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Alabama’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Alaska

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

The State of Alaska issues contractor registrations for:

• Specialty contractor – Painting contractor. Works on commercial and residential structures with limits
• General contractor. Works on commercial buildings, excluding residential
• General contractor with residential endorsement. Works on unlimited commercial and residential buildings.

Contractors who perform residential home improvements must register with the Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing in Alaska. Only the residential endorsement license has pre-requisite requirements.

You must hold a bond; the amounts depend on your classification type. Application fees total $350.

Required business insurance in Alaska:

• You must show proof of general liability ($20,000 for damage to property, $50,000 for injury, and $100,000 for injury to more than one person.).
• Alaska requires workers’ compensation if you have employees with limited exceptions.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Alaska’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Arizona

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

The Arizona Registrar of Contractors issues licenses for painters. They require separate painting business licenses for residential and commercial contractors.

Residential painters require two years of experience under a state-recognized contractor. They will then need to take a Statutes and Rules exam and a trade exam.

Arizona commercial painters require two years of experience under a state-recognized contractor. They will then need to take an exam with questions about commercial projects.

Both residential and commercial painters will need to file a contractor’s bond in the amount required for the license classification.

Required business insurance in Arizona:

• Arizona requires workers’ compensation if you have one or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Arizona’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $15,000 property damage.

Arkansas

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

Arkansas requires licensing for commercial and residential contractor workers.

Depending on the work, residential painters working on projects that cost $2,000 or more need to apply for a license in Arkansas — either a home improvement or residential builder license. Commercial contractors need a license for $50,000 or more work.

Subcontractors may not need to hold a full contractor license if they work with an appropriately licensed contractor, depending on the scope of work and how the project is structured. They typically need to obtain a registration certificate instead.

All contractors must provide a balance sheet or financial statement and pass the business and law exam. Additionally, commercial contractors need to obtain a $10,000 surety bond.

Required business insurance in Arkansas:

• Arkansas requires workers’ compensation if you have three or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Arkansas’ minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

California

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

Any contractor, including a painting and decorating contractor, who works on a project that costs $1,000 or more must be licensed by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB).

To qualify for a painting license, you must have four full years of experience in the last ten years in the area you’re applying. Your experience must be at a journey-level or worked as a supervisor, foreman or contractor. You must also pass the written Law and Business examination and a trade exam.

California painting contractors must have a $25,000 bond before getting licensed. If you apply for a license as an LLC, you’ll have different bonds and liability insurance minimums.

Recent or upcoming changes: Effective January 2025, the project cost threshold that typically triggers a state contractor license increased from $500 to $1,000. Also, California passed legislation that will eventually require all licensed contractors to carry workers’ compensation insurance, even if they have no employees. This requirement has been delayed and is currently scheduled to take effect in 2028.

Required business insurance in California:

• All LLC licenses must have general liability insurance between $1 million–$5 million. The minimum amount is based on the number of employees you have
• California requires workers’ compensation if you have any employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. California’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $30,000 per person / $60,000 per accident / $15,000 property damage. (Limits effective January 2025)

Colorado

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

There is no painting license requirement at the state level in Colorado, but licenses may be required at the city or county level.

You must register your business with the Colorado Secretary of State’s office.

While there is no statewide painters license, there is a state-level lead abatement permit if you work with lead-based paints.

Required business insurance in Colorado:

• Colorado requires workers’ compensation if you have one or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Colorado’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $15,000 property damage.

Connecticut

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

Painting contractors don’t need to be licensed in Connecticut but must be registered with the Department of Consumer Protection. They must register as a home improvement contractor to work on a residential property.

This generally applies when a single contract exceeds $200 or total home improvement work exceeds $1,000 in a 12-month period.. All home improvement contractor registrations expire annually on March 31.

If you need to get lead abatement training and certification, you can do so through the Department of Health’s site.

Required business insurance in Connecticut:

• To register as a home improvement contractor, you must provide proof of general liability insurance with a minimum of $20,000.
• Connecticut requires workers’ compensation if you have one or more employees
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Connecticut’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Delaware

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

Contractors, including painters, must be licensed in Delaware; however, it is issued through the Division of Revenue as a required state business license. Licenses are usually split by resident or non-resident contractors (you do not maintain a business in Delaware.)

In addition to a state business license, painting contractors must also register with the Delaware Department of Labor’s Office of Contractor Registration. This contractor registration is a separate requirement and typically applies to construction-related services performed in the state.

The Healthy Homes and Lead Poisoning Prevention Program oversees enforcement of lead regulations in Delaware. Individuals and firms performing lead-based paint activities in the State of Delaware may need to be certified by the Division of Public Health.

Required business insurance in Delaware:

• Delaware requires workers’ compensation if you have one or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Delaware’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $10,000 property damage.

Florida

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

Florida does not require a state license for all painting work. However, painters who meet the state’s definition of a contractor — such as those performing work above certain thresholds or acting as specialty contractors — may need to hold a state-issued contractor license through the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). This board oversees both certified and registered contractor classifications.

Painters performing lead abatement work may need certification through the Florida Department of Health. Renovation work involving lead-based paint may also need to comply with the EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule.

Required business insurance in Florida:

• Florida requires workers’ compensation if you have four or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Florida’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $10,000 per person / $20,000 per accident / $10,000 property damage.

Georgia

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

The State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors regulates contractor licenses in Georgia.

In Georgia, many specialty contractors — including painters — may not need a residential or general contractor license if they work strictly within their specialty and below certain project thresholds.

Painters employed by a licensed residential or general contractor under a valid permit are typically exempt from getting their own license. They must still comply with applicable state and local laws.

Required business insurance in Georgia:

• Georgia requires workers’ compensation if you have three or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Georgia’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Hawaii

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

Painters in Hawaii must be licensed by the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) as specialty contractors. They may register for a Specialty Contractor C-33 painting and decorating contractor license. They must pass an exam on business, law and trade.

Required business insurance in Hawaii:

• Licensed contractors typically must carry general liability insurance of at least $100,000 per person and $300,000 per occurrence, or an equivalent aggregate amount, depending on license requirements.
• Hawaii requires workers’ compensation if you have one or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Hawaii’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $20,000 per person / $40,000 per accident / $10,000 property damage.

Idaho

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

According to the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses, Idaho does not license painting contractors at the state level. Any licensing happens at the local level only.

However, painting contractors must register, even though no trade exam or license is required.

Required business insurance in Idaho:

• Idaho requires workers’ compensation if you have one or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Idaho’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $15,000 property damage.

Illinois

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

Painters do not have license requirements at the state level; they only have them in local jurisdictions. Painters don’t need a state contractors license, but typically must register with the Department of Revenue for tax purposes.

Check your local regulatory boards for painter license requirements:

• Chicago
• Aurora
• Naperville

You must register with the Department of Revenue if you conduct business in Illinois, or with Illinois customers.

The lead abatement/mitigation licensure program licenses and approves lead training courses for individuals and entities across the state. Licenses need to be renewed annually.

Required business insurance in Illinois:

• Illinois requires workers’ compensation if you have any employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Illinois’ minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $20,000 property damage.

Indiana

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

While some contractors must be licensed locally in Indiana, only plumbers require licensing at the state level. There is no painter license requirement in Indiana. However, all businesses in Indiana must register with the Secretary of State’s office.

Painters who work as independent contractors in the building and construction trades may need to apply to the Indiana Department of Revenue to certify their position as an independent contractor.

Individuals performing lead-based paint inspection, risk assessment or abatement work may need to be licensed through the Indiana Department of Health. Activities include:

• Inspection for lead based paint
• Risk assessment for lead hazards
• Clearance examination following lead abatement
• Abatement of lead-based paint
• Project design, supervision, and work in abatement projects

Licenses are issued after course certification and Department of Health examination, and must be renewed every three years through approved refresher training.

Required business insurance in Indiana:

• Indiana requires workers’ compensation if you have one or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Indiana’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Iowa

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

All construction contractors who do more than $2,000 of business per year must be registered and renew their registration annually with the Iowa Division of Labor. No painting license or exam is required at the state level; however, painters require a local license.

Painters must also register with Iowa’s Secretary of State.

Required business insurance in Iowa:

• Iowa requires workers’ compensation if you have one or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Iowa’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $20,000 per person / $40,000 per accident / $15,000 property damage.

Kansas

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

While some contractors are licensed at the state level in Kansas, painting contractors are licensed at the local level only or not at all. Painters who work with lead paint may need a license from the Kansas Department of Health & Environment. Painting businesses may also need to register with the Secretary of State’s office, depending on their business structure.

Kentucky

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

Painters do not require a license at the state level in Kentucky. Learn more about occupational licenses and permits in Kentucky. If your business is a sole proprietorship or general partnership, you must register your business with the local County Clerk’s office, otherwise, you must register with the state.

Certification is valid for two years. Individuals performing lead-based paint inspection or abatement services may need to be certified. Certification is typically valid for two years.

Required business insurance in Kentucky:

• Kentucky requires workers’ compensation if you have one or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Kentucky minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Louisiana

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

The State Licensing Board for Contractors issues four types of licenses: commercial, residential, home improvement and mold remediation.

Painting specialty licenses fall under commercial building construction classifications — Painting, Coating and Blasting and the subclassification Lead Based Paint Abatement/Removal. Applicants must submit information about work experience and a financial statement before sitting for a law and trade exam. A commercial license is typically required for painting work on commercial projects valued at $50,000 or more.

Residential painters may need to obtain a residential contractor license if a project exceeds $75,000. Otherwise, they can get a home improvement license to work on existing residential structures with projects exceeding $7,500 but less than $75,000.

Painting contractor insurance requirements vary depending on the license. Insurance requirements vary by license type, and some applicants may need to submit proof of insurance before a license is issued.

Required business insurance in Louisiana:

• Home improvement registrants must provide proof of general liability insurance with a minimum amount of $100,000
• Louisiana requires workers’ compensation if you have one or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Louisiana minimum motor vehicle requirements are $15,000 per person / $30,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Maine

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

Painting contractors do not require a state license in Maine. General licensing and permits are dealt with at a town or city level to operate a business in Maine.\

Maine law generally requires individuals performing residential lead abatement activities to be licensed or certified. You can apply for this license through Maine’s Department of Environmental Protection.

Required business insurance in Maine:

• Maine requires workers’ compensation if you have any employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Maine’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Maryland

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

Contractors who perform home improvement work in Maryland — including many residential painting projects — typically must be licensed by the Maryland Home Improvement Commission.

All applicants must show at least two years of experience in home improvement, construction or related education. They must meet the financial solvency guidelines of the Home Improvement Commission.

Applicants must also submit a certificate of trade name registration and show proof of liability insurance. Applicants must pass a licensing exam, with licenses issued for two years.

Anyone who engages in a lead paint abatement service must successfully complete a training course which has been accredited by the Maryland Department of the Environment.

Required business insurance in Maryland:

• Applicants and licensees must show proof of current $50,000 general liability insurance.
• Maryland requires workers’ compensation if you have one or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Maryland minimum motor vehicle requirements are $30,000 per person / $60,000 per accident / $15,000 property damage.

Massachusetts

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

Anyone who supervises certain types of structural construction work in Massachusetts may need a Construction Supervisor License (CSL). Painting work alone does not typically require a CSL.

This includes at least three full years of work experience and passing an exam.

In addition, you need to register as a home improvement contractor to perform residential contracting on an existing one-to-four-unit primary residence occupied by the owner. However, interior painting is generally excluded from the home improvement contractor registration requirement.

Painters need to register their businesses with MassTaxConnect and file with the Secretary of Commonwealth.

Painting contractors who want to apply for a lead-safe renovation or deleading license can submit an online application through the Department of Labor Standards.

Required business insurance in Massachusetts:

• Massachusetts requires workers’ compensation if you have any employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Massachusetts’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $20,000 per person / $40,000 per accident / $5,000 property damage.

Michigan

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

Previously, all painters in Michigan had to have a Maintenance and Alterations Contractors License. Lawmakers eliminated this requirement in 2019.

Under the Michigan Lead Abatement Act, to deal with lead-based paint, individuals must be certified by the Department of Health and Human Services.

Required business insurance in Michigan:

• Michigan typically requires workers’ compensation insurance if you have one or more full-time employees, or three or more employees, with limited exceptions.
• Michigan’s minimum motor vehicle liability limits are commonly cited as $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident / $10,000 property damage, depending on policy structure and circumstances.

Minnesota

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

Any person contracting directly with a homeowner offering building construction services in more than one skill area requires a building contractor or remodeler license in Minnesota.

Interior painting, exterior finishing painting and drywall painting all fall under different skill areas, so a painter who contracts directly with a homeowner and offers services in more than one of these areas requires a license.

Commercial painting contractors generally do not need a state license but must register with the state. Registration does not typically require a trade exam, though proof of business information and insurance may be required.

If you want to work on lead-based activities (abatement, renovation), you must get licensed by the Minnesota Department of Health.

Required business insurance in Minnesota:

• Some registrations or licenses may require proof of general liability insurance, often with minimum limits around $100,000 per occurrence.
• Minnesota requires workers’ compensation if you have any employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Minnesota’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $30,000 per person / $60,000 per accident / $10,000 property damage.

Mississippi

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

The state of Mississippi requires painting and wall covering contractors to be licensed by the Mississippi State Board of Contractors. Applicants generally need state approval before sitting for required exams.

Applicants must pass the trade exam, as well as the business and law management exam. Some specialty classifications, such as industrial or bridge painting, may have different exam requirements.

The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality oversees lead-based paint regulations. To become lead-safe certified for abatement activities, individuals must attend training for the activity that is to be performed.

Required business insurance in Mississippi:

• General liability insurance  is typically required, with minimum limits often set at $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate.
• Mississippi requires workers’ compensation if you have five or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Mississippi minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Missouri

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

Painting contractors do not require a state license in Missouri; however, they may require a license at the local level. You must register your business with the Department of Revenue.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services issues lead licensing. Individuals must attend training by a provider that is accredited by us to become licensed.

Required business insurance in Missouri:

• Missouri requires workers’ compensation if you have five or more employees, however, there is an exception if you’re in the construction industry. Employers in the industry must carry workers’ comp if you have one or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Missouri’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Montana

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

Montana does not issue a statewide painting license, but many construction contractors must obtain a Construction Contractor Registration (CR) through the Montana Department of Labor & Industry, especially if they have employees or are organized as certain business entities. Some independent contractors may qualify for different documentation (such as an independent contractor exemption), depending on their situation.

Paint contractors who work with lead-based paint may need to complete EPA-approved training and certification (such as under the EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule), depending on the type of work and building.

Required business insurance in Montana:

• Montana requires workers’ compensation if you have one or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Montana’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $20,000 property damage.

Nebraska

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

Nebraska does not issue a statewide contractor license for painters, but the state does require contractors and subcontractors to register with the Nebraska Department of Labor. State law specifies registration is required before performing construction work in counties with populations over 100,000. Local jurisdictions may also have licensing or permit requirements.

Any person working on a lead abatement project or in a lead occupation in Nebraska may need to obtain a license. All lead licenses expire two years from the date of issuance.

Required business insurance in Nebraska:

• Nebraska requires workers’ compensation if you have any employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Nebraska’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Nevada

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

Painters in Nevada must be licensed and hold a Nevada State Contractors Board license in the C-4 (Painting and Decorating) classification. They must also register their business with Nevada’s Secretary of State.

License applicants must be qualified to take the exam and will need to pass a Contractor Management Survey (business/law) exam and, in many cases, a trade exam. To qualify for a license, applicants must show at least four years of experience within the 10 previous years, submit financial statements, and have a surety bond and workers’ comp insurance if applicable. Bond requirements vary by license type and monetary limit and are set by the Board

Required business insurance in Nevada:

• Nevada requires workers’ compensation if you have any employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Nevada’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $20,000 property damage.

New Hampshire

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

Construction contractors, including painting contractors, do not need to be licensed in the state of New Hampshire. There may be local licensing requirements. Businesses must register with the state.

Individuals generally cannot perform lead abatement or lead inspection work in New Hampshire without a valid license. All applicants must attend training through an approved provider licensed by the Division of Public Health Services.

Required business insurance in New Hampshire:

• New Hampshire requires workers’ compensation if you have one or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. New Hampshire’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

New Jersey

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

In New Jersey, you only need to register (New Jersey treats this as a registration, not a traditional contractor “license”) as a contractor in the state. Painters fall under the umbrella of home improvement contractors and must register with the Division of Consumer Affairs.

All registered painters must have a registration badge and display their registration number in their place of business on all business documents and all advertisements.

Contractors performing lead hazard evaluation or lead abatement work in New Jersey may need state certification/permits. Painting renovation work involving lead-based paint may also need to follow the EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule.

Required business insurance in New Jersey:

• Home improvement contractors must have general liability insurance of not less than $500,000 per occurrence.
• New Jersey requires workers’ compensation if you have any employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. New Jersey’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $15,000 per person / $30,000 per accident / $5,000 property damage.

New Mexico

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

New Mexico generally requires contractors — including many specialty trades — to be licensed through the Construction Industries Division (CID). While the specific GS-19 painting license was repealed in 2016, the state might require a general residential or commercial specialty license.

Cities and counties may have license additional business registration or permitting requirements, so painters should check with local governments before taking on jobs.

Required business insurance in New Mexico:

• New Mexico may require workers’ compensation if you have three or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. New Mexico’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $10,000 property damage.

New York

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

New York State does not require a painter’s license at the state level; however, there are requirements at the local government level. Businesses must also register their business.

For example, painters in New York City require a Home Improvement Contractor License, which the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) awards. Applicants must pass a Home Improvement exam (new applicants only) and provide required insurance documents or exemptions to obtain a license. The license is issued on a set cycle and must be renewed; NYC lists an expiration date of February 28 in odd-numbered years.

Required business insurance in New York:

• New York requires workers’ compensation if you have any employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. New York’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $10,000 property damage.

North Carolina

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

Contractors in North Carolina must hold a license to bid on and work on jobs costing $40,000 or more. They must also register their business. Painting is not one of the trades classified within the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors’ license types.

Painters who disturb lead-based paint during renovation work may need EPA-accredited training and certification (such as under the EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule), depending on the type of work and building.

Required business insurance in North Carolina:

• North Carolina requires workers’ compensation if you have three or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. North Carolina’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident / $50,000 property damage. (Auto minimums increased in July 2025)

North Dakota

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

North Dakota requires all contractors who do work that costs more than $4,000 to be licensed in the state. To apply to be a licensed contractor, you must be registered as a business with the Secretary of State and have proof of North Dakota business insurance.

There is typically no exam requirement. Choose between the four classes of contractor licenses, depending on the size of the jobs you want to be licensed for.

• Class A: project exceeding $500,000
• Class B: project less than $500,000
• Class C: project less than $300,000
• Class D: project less than $100,000

Required business insurance in North Dakota:

• Contractors must include a certificate of insurance for general liability with the application
• North Dakota requires workers’ compensation if you have any employees, and it must be purchased through the state fund.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. North Dakota’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Ohio

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

The Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board only requires specific trades to obtain contractor licenses; painters are not included in the requirement. However, home improvement and general contractors in Ohio must be licensed or registered at the local level, with specific requirements depending on the city.

The Ohio Department of Health Lead Poisoning Prevention Program oversees safe and proper lead abatement, detection and analytical services. The program licenses lead-based activities.

Required business insurance in Ohio:

• Ohio requires workers’ compensation if you have any employees, purchased through a state agency.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Ohio’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Oklahoma

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

In Oklahoma, general contractors and subcontractors who provide general construction services, including painters, are not required to hold a state license. Counties, towns and cities may have local license requirements.

The Department of Environmental Quality may oversee certain environmental remediation programs, but renovation work involving lead-based paint typically falls under the EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule.

Required business insurance in Oklahoma:

• Oklahoma requires workers’ compensation if you have at least one employee (with exceptions).
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Oklahoma’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Oregon

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

In Oregon, all contractors who do any construction work to improve a property, including painters, require a state license issued by the Oregon Construction Contractors Board and may also need to register business with the state, depending on their business structure.

To obtain a license, you must complete training and take an exam. When applying, you must submit a surety bond and provide proof of general liability and worker’s compensation insurance. The license will be valid for two years.

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has authority from the EPA to regulate lead-based paint activities in the state. Individuals and firms conducting lead-paint activities must be trained by an authorized, accredited provider, certified by OHA and licensed by the Contractors Board.

Licensed contractors performing RRP work must apply to the CCB for a Lead-Based Paint Renovation (LBPR) license, and EPA firm certification alone does not qualify for Oregon’s LBPR contractor license.

Required business insurance in Oregon:

• Licensed contractors must have general liability insurance. The coverage amount varies based on the contractor’s endorsement and is commonly set at $300,000–$500,000 per occurrence for many residential endorsements.
• Oregon requires workers’ compensation if you have any employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Oregon’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $20,000 property damage.

Pennsylvania

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania does not require most construction contractors to hold a license; however, under the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act, most contractors must be registered and hold current business insurance in Pennsylvania.

Registered contractors must display their registration number on all contracts, advertisements and other business documents. Any contractors, including painters, who work with lead-based paint abatement (lead hazard control/remediation) must be certified through the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry’s lead occupation certification program.

Required business insurance in Pennsylvania:

• Pennsylvania requires workers’ compensation if you have any employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Pennsylvania’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $15,000 per person / $30,000 per accident / $5,000 property damage.

Rhode Island

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

Contractors who repair, build or remodel one to four-family residential buildings in Rhode Island must register with the Contractor’s Registration and Licensing Board.

Any painter who works on a pre-1978 home may need Lead Renovator (RRP) certification if they disturb painted surfaces during renovation, repair, or painting work in pre-1978 homes or child-occupied facilities. Painters must also work under a properly certified firm when firm certification is required. Painting business owners must renew firm and/or renovator certifications on the required cycle (often every five years, though refresher rules can vary by certification type).

Required business insurance in Rhode Island:

• RI requires workers’ compensation if you have one or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Rhode Island’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

South Carolina

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

Contractors in South Carolina need a license when performing commercial construction work costing more than $10,000.

To get the General Contractors-Nonstructural Renovation classification license, applicants must designate a Primary Qualifying Party (PQP) and provide a financial statement or surety bond. They must pass the business and law exam. (No technical exam.)

Painters of residential properties must be registered as a Residential Specialty Contractor but are not required to take an exam. They need three letters of reference demonstrating one year of experience within the past five years. Applicants also need to provide a credit report and a surety bond if they perform work exceeding $5,000.

Required business insurance in South Carolina:

• South Carolina requires workers’ compensation if you have four or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. South Carolina’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

South Dakota

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

There are no specific painter licenses in South Dakota. Painters are considered general construction contractors in the state and are licensed at the local government level. However, painters must register their business with the Secretary of State’s office.

Required business insurance in South Dakota:

• South Dakota does not require businesses to carry workers’ compensation, but it can help protect employers and employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. South Dakota’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Tennessee

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

Painters in Tennessee require a Home Improvement (HI) license for qualifying residential remodel jobs in counties where the HI law is adopted for jobs costing between $3,000 and $24,999. While an examination is not required, applicants must provide a bond and a copy of a sample written contract to be used when contracting with customers. The board may also request an interview.

Any jobs of $25,000 or more require a Contractor’s license. Applicants must provide experience, a reference and financial statement. Painters may or may not need to take a trade exam and a business and law exam based on what license classification they’re applying for.

Both types of licenses require proof of business insurance in Tennessee as a licensing condition. This may include general liability and workers’ comp coverages.

Lead-based paint activities must be conducted by firms and individuals certified by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation.

Required business insurance in Tennessee:

• Licensees must have general liability insurance. Minimums can vary by license type/monetary limit, but $100,000 is a common minimum for HI and some contractor monetary limits.
• Tennessee requires workers’ compensation if you have employees (construction employers are generally required to cover all employees).
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Tennessee’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $15,000 property damage.

Texas

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

Texas has no painter license requirement on a state level; however, you may require a local license to operate your painting business in a specific city. You must also register your business with the appropriate state/local agencies based on your business structure (for example, corporations/LLCs file formation documents with the Texas Secretary of State).

Required business insurance in Texas:

• Texas does not require businesses to carry workers’ compensation, but it is recommended.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Texas’ minimum motor vehicle requirements are $30,000 per person / $60,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Utah

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

A Drywall, Paint, and Plastering Specialty Contractor license is required for general painting in the state of Utah. The license is awarded by the Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL).

Applicants must provide proof of liability insurance and workers’ comp (if you have employees). They must also complete a 25-hour pre-license course. Additional requirements (including exam requirements) can vary by license type/classification

To perform regulated lead-based paint work activities, you must be certified by a Utah-accredited program.

Required business insurance in Utah:

• Contractor licensees must have general liability insurance with the minimum required coverage of $100,000 for each incident and $300,000 in total.
• Utah requires workers’ compensation if you have any employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Utah’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $30,000 per person / $65,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage. (Auto minimums increased in January 2025)

Vermont

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

General contractors and home improvement contractors in Vermont are not licensed at the state level but may need to be licensed at the local level.

There are state licenses for lead abatement, so painters who work with lead paint may need Vermont licensing/credentialing depending on whether the work is RRPM (renovation/repair/painting/maintenance) or abatement.

Required business insurance in Vermont:

• Vermont requires workers’ compensation if you have one or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Vermont’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $10,000 property damage.

Virginia

State license: Yes  Business registration: Yes

Virginia’s painting contractors require a state license from the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. There are three classes of contractor licenses depending on value or contract worth:

• Class A: No monetary restrictions.
• Class B: contracts/projects less than $150,000; total of all contracts/projects less than $1,000,000 in a 12-month period.
• Class C: contracts/projects less than $30,000; total of all contracts/projects less than $250,000 in a 12-month period.

Most applicants must sit for a prelicense business class. Those applying for a Class A and B license must complete examination requirements and provide a financial statement or surety bond.

Applicants can select the Painting & Wall Covering specialty designation. (Must be pre-approved and pass an examination.)

If you work with lead-based paints, you must obtain additional training/certification (such as RRP) depending on the type of work and building.

Required business insurance in Virginia:

• Virginia requires workers’ compensation if you have two or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Virginia’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage. (Auto minimums increased in January 2025)

Washington

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

General and specialty contractors are required to register with the Department of Labor & Industries in Washington State. This includes contractors in the specialty of painting and wall covering. They do not require contractors to be licensed at the state level.

To register as a contractor, you must register with the Department of Revenue, purchase a surety bond and show proof of general liability insurance. No coursework or test is required.

To work with lead-based paints, you must be certified through Washington’s Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program.

Required business insurance in Washington State:

• Specialty contractors must have general liability insurance in the following amounts: $200,000 in public liability and $50,000 property damage, or $250,000 combined single limit.
• Washington requires workers’ compensation if you have any employees, and it must be purchased through the state fund or covered via self-insurance.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Washington State’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $10,000 property damage.

West Virginia

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

A contractor license is required in West Virginia for many types of construction work on projects costing $5,000 or more for residential work or $25,000 or more for commercial work.

However, under the West Virginia Contractor Licensing Act, the definition of “contractor” does not include “a person who performs landscaping or painting services for commercial or residential customers — so many painting-only businesses may not need this license.” It’s best to contact the Division of Labor to confirm if you need a license, specialty or otherwise.

Before engaging in business activity in West Virginia, every individual or business entity must register and get a certificate from the State Tax Department.

Painters must obtain lead licensing if working with lead-based paints.

Required business insurance in West Virginia:

• West Virginia requires workers’ compensation if you have one or more employees.
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. West Virginia’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage.

Wisconsin

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

Wisconsin does not require a license for painters. The only contractors that require licenses are dwelling contractors, electricians, plumbers and HVAC technicians. Building contractors require registration only.

Training and certification are required for professionals who offer or conduct regulated lead-based paint activities. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services issues certifications.

Required business insurance in Wisconsin:

• Wisconsin requires workers’ compensation if you have 3+ employees, or if you have 1+ employees and pay $500+ in wages in any calendar quarter (state rules include multiple triggers).
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Wisconsin’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $10,000 property damage.

Wyoming

State license: No  Business registration: Yes

Painters are not required to be licensed at the state level in Wyoming. All contractors, other than electrical, are licensed at the local level. Painters must register their businesses with the Secretary of State’s office.

Required business insurance in Wyoming:

• Wyoming requires workers’ compensation if you have any employees, and it is typically obtained through Wyoming’s state workers’ compensation program (Wyoming is a monopolistic state; exemptions can apply).
• If you drive for work-related tasks, you may need commercial auto coverage. Wyoming’s minimum motor vehicle requirements are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident / $20,000 property damage.

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We’re providing all of this information as a service. It is correct and updated to the best of our knowledge, but it is not meant to be taken as legal advice and you should always consult with local authorities before making any business decisions. Regulations are subject to change at any time.