Plain-language guides to licensing, public bidding and getting paid in Kentucky, written from the statutes, rules and agency pages and linked to them.
Licensing
Kentucky does not issue a statewide general contractor license. Electrical, plumbing and HVAC work is licensed by the state, and some cities and counties license builders locally.
Reviewed Oct 30, 2026
Bidding
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet takes bids electronically through Bid Express on its monthly letting. Only firms prequalified in the project's work categories may register to bid.
Reviewed Oct 30, 2026
Lien law
Subs and suppliers without a contract with the owner must notify the owner within 75 or 120 days. Every claimant must file the lien statement within six months and sue within 12 months of filing.
Reviewed Oct 30, 2026
Procurement
State agency solicitations run through Kentucky's eProcurement site and the eMARS Vendor Self Service system.
Reviewed Oct 30, 2026
Guides are general information, not legal advice.