A North Carolina landscape contractor license does not remain valid indefinitely. The NCLCRB requires all licensees to renew their credentials on a regular cycle, demonstrating that they have kept their knowledge current and that their insurance coverage remains active. Understanding the renewal process helps you avoid late fees, penalties, and the complications that come with a lapsed license.
When Your License Expires
NC landscape contractor licenses are issued on an annual basis and expire on a set date each year. Your expiration date is printed on your license certificate. The NCLCRB typically sends renewal notices in advance of the expiration date, but it is your responsibility to renew on time regardless of whether you receive a reminder. Mark your expiration date on your calendar and begin the renewal process at least 30 days before the deadline to avoid any last-minute complications.
Renewal Requirements
To renew your license in good standing, you must:
- Complete the required number of continuing education (CEU) hours for the renewal period.
- Maintain current general liability insurance coverage at or above the NCLCRB's minimum limits and provide updated proof if requested.
- Submit the completed renewal form with accurate and current information.
- Pay the renewal fee in full by the expiration date.
Failing to meet any one of these requirements can delay the processing of your renewal or result in your license not being renewed on time.
How to Renew
The NCLCRB provides a renewal form that you must complete each year. Depending on the board's current processes, you may be able to renew:
- Online: Through the NCLCRB's licensee portal, where you can submit your renewal form, upload documentation, and pay by credit card or electronic check.
- By mail: By printing and completing the renewal form, enclosing your payment by check or money order, and mailing the package to the NCLCRB's office before the expiration date.
Check the NCLCRB's website for the most current renewal instructions. Online renewal is generally faster and provides immediate confirmation of receipt.
Renewal Fee
The NCLCRB charges an annual renewal fee. This fee is separate from the original application fee and must be paid each renewal cycle. The amount is set by the board and may be adjusted periodically. Confirm the current renewal fee on the NCLCRB's website or renewal notice. Renewals submitted on time pay only the standard renewal fee; late renewals are subject to additional charges.
Continuing Education Requirement
As a condition of annual renewal, NC landscape contractors must complete a specified number of continuing education hours during each renewal period. The NCLCRB approves courses and providers that qualify for CEU credit. Eligible topics include landscape design, plant science, horticulture, pest management, business practices, safety, and NC regulatory updates.
You must complete your CEU hours before you submit your renewal — you cannot renew and then make up the hours afterward. See our Continuing Education page for a full breakdown of approved categories, providers, and documentation requirements.
Late Renewal
If you miss the renewal deadline but act within a short grace period — typically 30 to 60 days after expiration, though you should confirm the current grace period with the NCLCRB — you may still be able to renew by paying an additional late fee on top of the standard renewal fee. During the grace period, your license is technically expired; operating as a landscape contractor on an expired license may constitute a violation of Chapter 89D.
If you receive a notice of late renewal, respond immediately and do not continue performing licensed work until your renewal is confirmed.
Lapsed License
A license that is not renewed within the grace period is considered lapsed. Once lapsed, you may no longer legally perform landscape contracting work for compensation in North Carolina. To resume working, you must apply for reinstatement through the NCLCRB. Reinstatement typically requires:
- Payment of all outstanding renewal fees plus applicable reinstatement fees.
- Proof that your continuing education requirements are met.
- Confirmation that your insurance coverage is current.
- In some cases, the board may require additional review or even re-examination if the lapse has been extended.
Avoid allowing your license to lapse, as reinstatement is more burdensome and expensive than timely renewal.
Renewing After a Long Absence
If your license has been lapsed for a significant period — typically more than one or two renewal cycles — the NCLCRB may treat your reinstatement more like a new application. This can mean paying all back fees, demonstrating that your skills remain current, completing a higher volume of continuing education hours, or in some circumstances, retaking the licensing examination. The board reviews these situations on a case-by-case basis. Contact the NCLCRB directly to understand what will be required before submitting payment or paperwork.