At a Glance: Massachusetts Contractor License
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Licensing Board | Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR) |
| License Types |
|
| License Threshold | CSL required for any construction work; HIC for home improvement |
| Application Fee | $100–$200 (HIC); $150–$250 (CSL) |
| Exam Required | ✅ Yes |
| Exam Provider | PSI Exams |
| Exam Cost | $70–$120 |
| Experience Required | 3 years for CSL |
| Insurance Required | Workers' Comp required; Liability recommended |
| License Renewal | Biennial; varies |
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Massachusetts Contractor License
- Determine if you need HIC, CSL, or both
- Document 3 years experience for CSL
- Pass Massachusetts building code exam
- Carry required workers' comp insurance
- Register online via OCABR
- Both licenses required for most residential work
Exam Requirements
Provider: PSI Exams
Cost: $70–$120
Topics covered: Massachusetts Building Code, Business & Law
Most state contractor exams test two main areas: Business & Law (contracts, lien law, workers' comp, licensing regulations) and Trade Knowledge (construction practices, building codes, safety). Prepare for both sections — even experienced contractors struggle with the Business & Law portion without dedicated study.
Study Resources
- PSI Candidate Handbook (available on PSI website — free, covers exactly what's on the exam)
- ICC Study Guides for code-based exams
- Contractor's Business & Law Study Guide by Craftsman Book Company
- Online prep courses from Contractor Exam Prep and similar providers
Insurance & Bonding Requirements
Workers' Comp required; Liability recommended
Beyond what Massachusetts requires, consider these coverage types for complete protection:
- General Liability: Protects against third-party bodily injury and property damage claims
- Workers' Compensation: Required if you have employees; protects against job-site injury claims
- Commercial Auto: Your personal auto policy won't cover your work truck
- Inland Marine (Tools & Equipment): Covers tool theft from job site or vehicle
Reciprocity
Massachusetts has the following reciprocity agreements with other states:
No active reciprocity agreements.
Important: Reciprocity agreements change over time. Always contact the Massachusetts licensing board directly to confirm current reciprocity status before assuming your out-of-state license qualifies for expedited licensure.
Important Notes for Massachusetts
Massachusetts requires BOTH a CSL for the supervisor and an HIC registration for the business. Most residential work requires both. Failure to have both is a criminal offense.
Official Resources
- Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR) — Official Website
- PSI Exams — Schedule Your Contractor Exam
- Contractor Insurance Guide
- Contractor Bonding Guide
- How to Start a Construction Business
Always verify requirements directly with the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR). Requirements, fees, and exam procedures change frequently — this guide is updated periodically but may not reflect the most recent changes.