Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Trades
Carpenter Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for carpenter in Virginia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Carpenter in Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health Professions • Virginia Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$50,220 median (15% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#36 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Virginia
With a median salary of 50,220, Carpenters in Virginia earn 15% below the national median of $59,310. Virginia ranks #36 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$50,220Hourly estimate
$24.1415% below national median
Difference: -$9,090
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCarpenter Salary Ranking
#36 of 50 statesfor Carpenter median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Hawaii | 85,970 |
| #2 | Illinois | 76,410 |
| #3 | California | 74,820 |
| #4 | Washington | 73,260 |
| #5 | Massachusetts | 71,110 |
Nearby States Comparison
Carpenter licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $50,220 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $60,130 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $47,320 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $50,860 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $49,520 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $47,630 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Health Professions • Virginia Board of Nursing
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8043674515
Related Careers in Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $61,610 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $102,720 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $60,630 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Locksmith | $57,990 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Carpenter in Virginia?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Carpenters in Virginia?
Virginia lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Carpenters.
What education do you need to become a Carpenter in Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Carpenter licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Carpenter salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Carpenters in Virginia is 50,220. Salaries range from $37,250 (10th percentile) to $71,730 (90th percentile).
How does the Carpenter salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Carpenters in Virginia earn 15% below the national median of $59,310, with a state median of 50,220.
How many Carpenters work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 18,340 Carpenters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Carpenter license to Virginia from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Carpenters in Virginia?
The licensing agency is Department of Health Professions / Virginia Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/Nursing/.