Solar Licensing Requirements by State for Contractors

Understanding solar licensing requirements by state is essential for anyone installing solar panels professionally. In most cases, you do need a license to install solar panels, but the type of license required varies widely by state. Some states mandate a dedicated solar contractor license, while others require an electrical or general contractor license to perform solar PV installations.

Because solar photovoltaic systems must comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC), licensing requirements are designed to ensure installers have the electrical knowledge and experience needed to complete safe, code-compliant projects. Failing to meet solar licensing requirements by state can result in permit delays, fines, or the inability to legally install solar systems in certain jurisdictions.

For companies operating across state lines, knowing what license you need to install solar panels in each jurisdiction is critical. Since 2013, GreenLancer has supported solar installers nationwide with solar design, engineering, permitting, and interconnection requirements. This guide breaks down solar licensing requirements by state so you can stay compliant and scale with confidence.

Do You Need a License to Install Solar Panels?

In most cases, yes — you do need a license to install solar panels. But, solar licensing requirements by state vary widely. Some states require a dedicated solar contractor license, while others allow solar installations under an electrical or general contractor license. The exact license you need depends on where the work is performed and whether the project includes electrical, structural, or roofing scope.

Because solar PV systems must comply with the National Electrical Code, states use licensing requirements to ensure installers have the technical knowledge to complete safe, code-compliant installations. Failing to meet licensing requirements by state can delay solar permits, void inspections, or expose contractors to fines and liability.

What License Do You Need to Install Solar Panels?

Understanding solar licensing requirements by state means knowing which type of license allows you to legally install, modify, or maintain solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Requirements vary: some states issue a dedicated solar contractor license, others require an electrical contractor license, and many allow solar work under more general contractor credentials.

States With a Dedicated Solar Contractor License

Some states issue specific licenses designed for solar contractors, meaning the license explicitly authorizes solar PV work:

California (C-46 Solar Contractor License)

California requires the C-46 classification for dedicated solar contractors, authorizing the installation and maintenance of both PV and thermal systems. While C-10 (Electrical) and General contractors may also perform solar work, the C-46 is the specific specialty license. Applicants must meet four years of journey-level experience and pass trade and business law exams via the CSLB.

Arizona

Arizona regulates solar work through specialty classifications under the Registrar of Contractors (ROC). For PV systems, contractors typically hold an R-11, C-11, or CR-11 (Electrical) license. State law often requires these contractors to demonstrate specific solar competency or hold a solar-specific sub-classification to ensure systems meet safety and performance standards.

Nevada

The Nevada State Contractors Board classifies solar PV work under the C-2g (Photovoltaic) subclassification of the electrical license. This specific license allows contractors to install, alter, and maintain PV systems. For solar thermal (water heating), Nevada utilizes the separate C-37 (Solar Contracting) license to ensure technical compliance.

Florida

Florida issues a Certified Solar Contractor (CV) license, which explicitly authorizes contracting for solar PV and thermal systems. While Certified Electrical Contractors (EC) are also permitted to install PV, the CV license is the state’s dedicated solar-specific credential regulated by the Construction Industry Licensing Board.

States That Require an Electrical Contractor License

In many states, solar installation is performed under the broader electrical contractor license, which covers all electrical work, including PV systems:

Texas

Texas does not have a standalone solar contractor license. Solar installers typically need a Texas Electrical Contractor License (TECL) to install, repair, or alter electrical systems, which includes solar installations. Licensed electricians must be on staff to perform and supervise the electrical components.

North Carolina

North Carolina requires solar PV installers and repairers to hold appropriate electrical contractor licensing through the State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors. This ensures installers meet NEC-aligned electrical standards in solar work.

New York (Varies by AHJ)

New York State does not have a unique solar license, but many Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) require installations to be done under a licensed Master Electrician or general contractor with electrical credentials. Local building departments may enforce additional requirements.

States Without a Solar-Specific License

Many states do not have a dedicated solar contractor license but still regulate solar installation through general contractor or electrical licensing frameworks:

General Contractor License

Several states allow solar installation under a general contractor license, particularly when the work is categorized as home improvement or construction contracting. In these cases, a state or local general contractor license plus appropriate electrical or subcontracted expertise may be sufficient.

Local AHJ Rules

Even in states without specific solar licenses, local jurisdictions — cities or counties — may require additional registration, permitting, or certifications to install PV systems. This can include local electrician registrations or building permits tied to electrical work.

County or City Variation

Some areas may interpret requirements differently or impose separate licensing rules, so installers expanding into new territories should always confirm licensing expectations with local building departments and state boards.

Solar Licensing Requirements by State: Installer Reference Guide

Below is a high-level overview of solar contractor license requirements by state. Always verify with the licensing authority before applying.

Arizona Solar Contractor Licenses

Arizona does not issue a single universal solar installer license, but solar contractors must hold an appropriate Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC) license to legally install, repair, or service solar PV systems.

In practice, solar work in Arizona is performed under one of the following ROC classifications, depending on scope and project type:

• CR-17 / A-17 Solar Contracting - Authorizes residential (CR-17) or commercial (A-17) solar energy system installation, including photovoltaic systems.

• C-11 or L-11 Electrical Contractor - Commonly used for solar PV installations that fall primarily under electrical scope, including wiring, inverters, and interconnection work.

Solar contractors must be properly licensed for the exact scope of work being performed. The Arizona Registrar of Contractors oversees licensing, compliance, and enforcement. Using the wrong classification can delay permits or result in citations, which is why Arizona solar licensing requirements are often more nuanced than installers expect.

California Solar Contractor Licenses

California has one of the most clearly defined solar licensing frameworks in the U.S. Solar PV installers must hold a C-46 Solar Contractor License, which is specifically designed for solar energy systems.

The C-46 license authorizes contractors to:

• Install, modify, maintain, and repair solar photovoltaic systems

• Perform associated mounting, racking, and system integration work

• Comply with California solar regulations, utility interconnection rules, and NEC requirements

To qualify for a California solar contractor license, applicants must meet CSLB experience requirements, typically four years of journey-level experience. Experience may include a combination of hands-on work, education, and apprenticeship training.

Applicants must also pass:

• A C-46 trade exam covering solar installation practices and safety

• A Business and Law exam administered by the California Contractors State License Board

Licenses are issued and regulated by the CSLB, and failure to hold the proper C-46 classification can result in permit rejections or enforcement actions, especially as California tightens oversight under evolving solar market rules.

Florida Solar Contractor Licenses

Florida has clear solar licensing requirements for contractors, and solar PV installations must be performed by contractors holding an appropriate state-certified license. Solar contractors in Florida typically operate under one of the following licenses:

Certified Solar Contractor (CVC)

The Certified Solar Contractor license allows contractors to install, repair, and maintain:

• Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems

• Solar water heating systems

• Solar pool heating systems

This license covers both residential and commercial solar installations and is the most direct solar-specific license in Florida.

Certified Electrical Contractor (EC)

A Certified Electrical Contractor license also qualifies contractors to install solar PV systems, since solar installations involve significant electrical work.

• ECs may legally perform PV installations and interconnections

• Roofing or structural work may need to be subcontracted to a properly licensed contractor if required by the local building department

  
  

To obtain a Florida solar contractor license, applicants must meet experience and exam requirements, including:

• Four years of field experience, with at least one year in a supervisory role

• Up to three years of college education may count toward experience

• Passing a trade exam (solar or electrical) and a Business and Finance exam

Solar contractor licensing in Florida is regulated by the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) and the Electrical Contractor’s Licensing Board, depending on license type.

Georgia Solar Contractor Licenses 

Georgia does not issue a solar-specific contractor license at the state level. However, solar installers must still comply with general contractor licensing requirements.

Contractors performing solar installations in Georgia typically need:

• A Residential Basic or Residential Light Commercial Contractor license, or

• A General Contractor license, depending on project size and scope

Licenses are issued by the Georgia State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors. In addition, electrical work must be performed by a properly licensed electrician, and local AHJs may impose additional permitting or licensing requirements.

Illinois Solar Contractor License

Illinois does not have a dedicated solar contractor license. Instead, solar PV installers must comply with general contractor and electrical licensing requirements.

Contractors typically need:

• A valid contractor license issued by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)

• Proper electrical licensing for PV system wiring and interconnection

Licensing requirements may include:

• Verified work experience, education, or apprenticeship

• Passing a licensing exam covering applicable laws and codes

• Proof of general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance, when applicable

Because Illinois licensing can vary by municipality, solar contractors should always confirm local AHJ requirements before pulling permits. (IDFPR).

Nevada Solar Contractor Licences

Nevada requires solar contractors to hold a state-issued contractor license through the Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB).

Solar PV work falls under:

• C-2 Electrical Contractor, subclassification C-2g (Photovoltaic Systems)

The C-2g license covers:

• Installation, alteration, and repair of photovoltaic panels

• Inverters, batteries, and balance-of-system components

• Electrical work up to, but not beyond, the service panel

Licensing exams evaluate knowledge aligned with nationally recognized standards, including guidance from organizations such as NABCEP and IREC. Holding the correct Nevada solar license is critical for permit approval and interconnection.

New Jersey Solar Contractors Licenses

New Jersey requires multiple credentials for solar installations, depending on project scope.

Most residential solar contractors must hold:

• A Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration for residential work

If the contractor performs electrical work, they must also hold:

• An Electrical Contractor License issued by the New Jersey Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors

In practice, many solar companies partner with or employ licensed electricians to meet New Jersey’s electrical licensing requirements for PV system installations.

New York Solar Contractor Licenses

New York State does not issue a solar-specific contractor license, but local AHJs set licensing rules, and requirements vary widely by county and city.

Common requirements include:

• An electrical license, a home improvement contractor license, or both

• Local permits issued by the AHJ having jurisdiction

  
  

New York City (NYC)

Solar PV installations in NYC require:

• An electrical permit issued to an NYC-licensed Master Electrician

• A construction work permit issued to an NYC-licensed General Contractor

Because New York licensing is highly localized, solar installers must verify requirements for each municipality before bidding or permitting a project.

North Carolina Solar Contractor Licenses

North Carolina requires licensed electrical contractors for most solar PV installation work. Under NCGS §87-43, anyone who installs, repairs, or maintains solar electric systems must hold an appropriate North Carolina electrical contractor license.

Solar installers must be licensed through the North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors, which regulates electrical classifications and enforces compliance with state and local code requirements.

• Solar PV systems are treated as electrical installations

• Electrical licensing is required for system wiring, interconnection, and equipment installation

• Local AHJs may impose additional permitting or inspection requirements

For solar companies operating in North Carolina, working with or employing a properly licensed electrical contractor is essential to meet state licensing and permitting rules.

Texas Solar Licenses for Contractors

Texas does not issue a solar-specific contractor license, but solar PV installation work requires an electrical license. Contractors performing solar installations must hold a Texas Electrical Contractor license issued by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) and employ Texas-licensed electricians.

Key distinctions in Texas solar licensing:

• A license is required to install, alter, or repair solar PV systems

• A company may legally sell solar systems without a license, as long as it does not perform installation work

• Electrical licensing applies to PV wiring, inverters, service panel connections, and interconnection

Because Texas has strong local control, AHJs may add requirements related to permitting, inspections, or roofing scope, making it important to confirm rules before starting a project.

Virginia Solar Contractor Licenses

Virginia offers a solar-specific specialty known as Alternative Energy Systems (AES) through the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR).

Solar contractors in Virginia must:

• Hold a Class A, B, or C contractor license, and

• Pass a specialty exam to add the AES classification to their license

The AES specialty allows contractors to install, repair, or improve alternative energy systems and associated equipment from the customer’s electric meter downstream, including solar PV systems.

Important limitation:

• Solar systems larger than 100 kW fall outside the AES scope

• Projects over 100 kW require contractors to hold a Highway / Heavy (H/H) classification instead

Virginia’s licensing structure makes it especially important for contractors to understand system size thresholds before bidding or permitting commercial solar projects.

Common Licensing Mistakes Solar Installers Make

Even experienced contractors can run into trouble with solar licensing requirements by state. These are some of the most common mistakes that lead to failed inspections, permit delays, or compliance issues.

 ⛔ Assuming an Electrician License Covers Solar Everywhere

An electrical contractor license is required in many states, but it does not automatically authorize solar PV installation in every jurisdiction. Some states require a dedicated solar contractor license or specialty classification, while others limit the scope of electrical licenses for PV work.

 ⛔ Overlooking Reciprocity and State-to-State Limits

License reciprocity is often misunderstood. A solar contractor license valid in one state may not transfer automatically to another, even if the work scope is similar. Installers expanding into new states often miss required registrations or exams.

 ⛔ Selling Solar Legally but Installing Illegally

In states like Texas, companies can legally sell solar systems without a license, but installation, wiring, or system modification requires licensed contractors. This distinction is a frequent source of violations.

 ⛔ Ignoring AHJ-Level Requirements

Even when state licensing is clear, local Authorities Having Jurisdiction may impose additional rules, such as electrical permits, roofing licenses, or registered contractor requirements. AHJ rules often override assumptions based on state law alone.

Meeting Solar Contractor License Requirements at Scale

Keeping up with solar licensing requirements by state becomes more complex as your business grows. Each new market brings different contractor license rules, AHJ expectations, utility standards, and documentation requirements. Even fully licensed solar contractors can lose time navigating permitting details that change by jurisdiction.

This is where operational support matters. Many licensed installers rely on standardized, permit-ready documentation to move projects forward without reworking designs for every AHJ. Accurate plan sets, code-aligned engineering, and complete interconnection packages help reduce back-and-forth with building departments and utilities.

Since 2013, GreenLancer has supported licensed solar contractors nationwide by preparing solar design and engineering deliverables that align with local permitting and interconnection requirements. By handling the design and documentation layer, GreenLancer helps contractors focus on execution while maintaining compliance as they scale into new states and markets.

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FAQs on Solar Licensing Requirements by State