Skip to main content
USLG
HomeStatesProfessionsAbout

General Contractor License in Massachusetts

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your General Contractor license in MA. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$450

Processing Time

6-8 Weeks

Exam Required

Contractor Business & Law Exam

Difficulty Level

High

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your General Contractor license in Massachusetts.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved General Contractor training program in Massachusetts.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 6 required documents for your MA application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the Contractor Business & Law Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Massachusetts licensing board and pay the $450 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 6-8 weeks in MA. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a General Contractor in Massachusetts, the licensing process begins with education. MA mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the Contractor Business & Law Exam. Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate Massachusetts regulatory board.

Requirements

To qualify for General Contractor licensure in Massachusetts, candidates must satisfy several prerequisites. MA mandates completion of an approved training program, successful passage of the Contractor Business & Law Exam, and a clean criminal background check. Additional requirements may include proof of residency and professional references as determined by the Massachusetts regulatory authority.

Fees & Costs

Obtaining your General Contractor license in Massachusetts requires a financial investment. The base licensing fee in MA is $450, which includes application processing and credential verification. Exam registration fees are separate and vary by testing center. Budget for approximately $600 total when accounting for all associated costs in Massachusetts.

License Fee Calculator — General Contractor in Massachusetts

Base License Fee$450
Estimated Total$450

Renewal Process

Maintaining your General Contractor license in Massachusetts requires timely renewal every 2 years. MA sets the renewal fee at $300. You must complete all required continuing education hours and submit proof to the Massachusetts board. Failure to renew on time may result in license suspension and reinstatement fees in MA.

License Expiry Calculator — General Contractor in MA

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Massachusetts requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Massachusetts takes professional licensing seriously, and the General Contractor field is no exception. The state board in MA regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed General Contractor in Massachusetts, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The MA licensing board provides resources and support to help professionals meet their obligations.

Document Checklist — General Contractor

0 of 6 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Massachusetts General Contractor License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) NoneAK does not recognize MA General Contractor license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize MA General Contractor license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) FullAZ accepts MA General Contractor license via reciprocity agreement.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts MA General Contractor license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for MA license holders.
Delaware (DE) NoneDE does not recognize MA General Contractor license. Full re-application required.
California (CA) FullCA accepts MA General Contractor license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for MA license holders.

Where to File Locally in Massachusetts

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Boston

1000 Washington St, Boston, MA 02118

(617) 701-8600

Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Worcester

455 Main St, Worcester, MA 01608

(508) 799-1000

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Springfield

36 Court St, Springfield, MA 01103

(413) 787-6100

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Cambridge

795 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139

(617) 349-4300

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Lowell

375 Merrimack St, Lowell, MA 01852

(978) 970-4000

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Official Massachusetts Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Massachusetts state board. Regulations may change.

Can't find what you're looking for?

Our research team is here to help. Reach out and we'll get you the licensing information you need.

Contact Our Team

Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.