United States
Hong KongWhat a state still wants
Experience, financial statements, a bond, insurance, usually a business and law examination, and a qualifying party where a company holds the license. The trade exam is one requirement of six.
Passing feels like the end. It is one item on a list, and the items after it take longer.
The six
| Requirement | What it usually involves |
|---|---|
| Experience | Years in the trade or in a supervisory role, evidenced |
| Financial statements | Often reviewed or audited, with a net worth threshold |
| Surety bond | Amount set by the state, sometimes by license class |
| Insurance | General liability and workers compensation |
| Business and law exam | Separate from the trade exam, in many states |
| Qualifying party | A named individual whose qualifications support a company license |
Candidates finish the NASCLA exam, celebrate, and then discover their state wants another examination on its own law, business practice and licensing rules. It is a separate paper with separate preparation, and the NASCLA exam does not touch it.
Financial statements take longest
Many states want statements prepared or reviewed by a licensed accountant, and the threshold scales with the value of work you intend to bid.
That is not a same-week job. Start it while you are still studying rather than after you pass.
The qualifying party
Where a company holds the license, a named individual's qualifications support it. That person is answerable for the company's work, and if they leave the license is at risk.
It is a serious position and it is worth understanding before agreeing to be one for somebody else's business.
Sequence it properly
Financials and experience evidence in parallel with exam preparation. Bond and insurance once the application is in. Transcript request as soon as you pass.
Common questions
What does a state require after the NASCLA exam?
Experience, financial statements, a bond, insurance, usually a business and law exam, and a qualifying party for a company license.
Is there another exam?
In many states yes, on its own business and law. The NASCLA exam does not cover it.
What takes longest?
The financial statements, which often need a licensed accountant and should be started during exam preparation.
What is a qualifying party?
A named individual whose qualifications support a company license, and who is answerable for the company's work.
When should I request the transcript?
As soon as you pass, since the state cannot act on a result it has not received.