Skip to main content
USLG
HomeStatesProfessionsAbout

Excavation Contractor License in Tennessee

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Excavation Contractor license in TN. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$350

Processing Time

4-6 Weeks

Exam Required

State Excavation Exam

Difficulty Level

Medium

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Excavation Contractor license in Tennessee.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Excavation Contractor training program in Tennessee.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your TN application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the State Excavation Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Tennessee licensing board and pay the $350 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 4-6 weeks in TN. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

Getting licensed as a Excavation Contractor in Tennessee starts with meeting the educational prerequisites set by the TN licensing authority. Once you have completed your training, you will need to register for and pass the State Excavation Exam. After passing, submit your application along with all required documents to the Tennessee state board.

Requirements

Tennessee has specific requirements for Excavation Contractor licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to perform earthwork and excavation for construction projects. A clean background check is mandatory in TN, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The State Excavation Exam must be passed with a minimum score set by the Tennessee board.

Fees & Costs

Obtaining your Excavation Contractor license in Tennessee requires a financial investment. The base licensing fee in TN is $350, which includes application processing and credential verification. Exam registration fees are separate and vary by testing center. Budget for approximately $500 total when accounting for all associated costs in Tennessee.

License Fee Calculator — Excavation Contractor in Tennessee

Base License Fee$350
Estimated Total$350

Renewal Process

Your Excavation Contractor license in Tennessee must be renewed every 2 years. The renewal fee in TN is $200. Tennessee requires completion of continuing education credits before renewal. Submit your renewal application at least 30 days before expiration to avoid late fees. Practicing with an expired license in TN can result in fines and disciplinary action.

License Expiry Calculator — Excavation Contractor in TN

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Tennessee requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Working as a Excavation Contractor in Tennessee offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. TN has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. Tennessee also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Excavation Contractor professionals.

Document Checklist — Excavation Contractor

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Tennessee Excavation Contractor License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) FullAK accepts TN Excavation Contractor license via reciprocity agreement.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for TN license holders.
Arizona (AZ) FullAZ accepts TN Excavation Contractor license via reciprocity agreement.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts TN Excavation Contractor license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) FullCO accepts TN Excavation Contractor license via reciprocity agreement.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for TN license holders.
California (CA) FullCA accepts TN Excavation Contractor license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize TN Excavation Contractor license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in Tennessee

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Nashville

500 James Robertson Pkwy, Nashville, TN 37243

(615) 741-3449

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Memphis

125 N Main St, Memphis, TN 38103

(901) 576-6000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Knoxville

400 Main St, Knoxville, TN 37902

(865) 215-2000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Chattanooga

101 E 11th St, Chattanooga, TN 37402

(423) 643-7800

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Clarksville

1 Public Square, Clarksville, TN 37040

(931) 645-7444

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Tennessee Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Tennessee state board. Regulations may change.

Can't find what you're looking for?

Our research team is here to help. Reach out and we'll get you the licensing information you need.

Contact Our Team

Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.