Continuing education is an important requirement for Georgia contractors. As building codes and standards change regularly, contractors must stay up to date. This article will provide information on Georgia contractor continuing education requirements for contractors, approved course topics, and how to meet the credit hours needed to renew licenses. We will explore the classes available and how they keep professionals knowledgeable.
Georgia Contractor Continuing Education Requirements
There are a few requirements for Georgia contractors regarding continuing education. First and foremost, all residential and general contractors must complete at least three hours of approved courses each year. Additionally, if a contractor holds multiple licenses in different categories (e.g. residential and commercial), they must complete three hours for each category. This means that a contractor with two licenses must complete six hours of continuing education courses per year.
Georgia Contractor CE Approved Course Topics
You need to select approved courses that align with your license category carefully. Courses offered for residential contractors differ from those offered for commercial contractors. However, some common topics apply to both categories. They include:
1. Building Codes
Changes to International Building Codes occur frequently, so classes on the latest code provisions are widely available. Contractors take these to maintain compliance and properly design and construct projects. Courses cover structural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical code updates.
2. Construction Methods and Standards
As technologies and materials advance, contractors must learn improved building techniques. Classes teach the latest industry standards for foundation, framing, and roofing systems. Contractors gain knowledge applicable to their trade.
3. Business Management
Running a construction business requires non-technical business skills. Approved classes provide information on estimating, project management, legal/regulatory compliance, hiring/managing employees, financial management, and marketing. Contractors earn credits while improving their administration abilities.
4. Health and Safety Procedures
Job site accidents can be costly and damaging. Contractors remain aware of current Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) compliance rules through ongoing education. They take classes on construction hazards, material handling processes, first aid, and CPR certifications to foster a culture of safety.
5. Specialty Topic Courses
Certain licenses may require specialty training related directly to their field. Electricians take classes on new wiring methods, while plumbers focus on updates to plumbing systems. Home inspectors receive credits covering recent innovations, inspection methods, and standards. There is a wide selection of continuing education courses relevant to various construction specialties.
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How to Meet the Credit Hours Needed to Renew Licenses
You need to attend an approved institution offering courses in your license category. Approved providers include:
1. Online and Classroom Course Options
Contractors have flexibility in how they earn continuing education credits. Many approved courses are offered online for the convenience of self-paced learning from any location. Traditional classroom lectures are also widely available throughout the state.
2. Providers and Schedules
Credits can be acquired from numerous providers, including trade associations, community colleges, and private training companies. Course schedules vary from one-day events to multi-week programs. Contractors find options that fit into their work schedules.
3. Tracking Credit Hours
The Georgia Secretary of State maintains a Continuing Education Registry where contractors log all completed classes. Contractors should request certificates of completion from course sponsors. These, along with the Registry, provide documentation and ensure credits will be accepted towards renewal.
4. Extending an Expired License
If credits were not fully earned by the expiration date, contractors have a brief grace period and the opportunity to complete any remaining hours while paying a late fee penalty. This prevents the need for retaking exams and maintains an uninterrupted license to continue practicing the trade. However, the credits must be logged quickly during this extension.
Get Started Today!
RocketCert is a top provider of high-quality Georgia contractor continuing education courses. Their online programs allow flexible, self-paced learning from any location at times convenient for busy schedules. RocketCert classes cover all required topics, from code updates to project management skills. As a Contractor Licensing Board-approved sponsor, you can be confident that RocketCert credits will satisfy your renewal needs. Visit RocketCert.com today to view their full catalog of courses and start earning credits toward your next license renewal. Don’t leave your education to chance – enroll with RocketCert and start immediately.
Final Words
Continuing education classes are an accessible way for Georgia contractors to gain valuable knowledge and fulfill license renewal obligations. By completing courses to keep current on industry topics, contractors can feel confident that they are equipped to handle projects safely and legally. Their skills stay sharp, benefiting both their businesses and clients.