General Contractor / Massachusetts
2026 data Massachusetts board official source

Massachusetts General Contractor License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

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Oversees construction projects. Requirements vary significantly by state.

What the Massachusetts data shows for General Contractors

Becoming a licensed general contractor in Massachusetts means clearing a defined set of hurdles: board-approved training, a passing score on State Contractor License Exam, and 4 years of supervised work experience, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. Massachusetts regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Experience plus Exam".

Upfront cost is $150, with renewal running $100 on a 2-year cycle. Expect roughly 5 weeks of processing once a complete application is submitted. Massachusetts doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Usually not reciprocal — state-by-state basis.

Licensing Requirements in Massachusetts

Education / Training Hours
Experience plus Exam
Not specified
Exam Requirement
State Contractor License Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$345
Renewal Fee
$281
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
4 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$150
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$100
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
5 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
Not required
Compare fees across all states for General Contractor →

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Compare all states for General Contractor All Massachusetts licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Massachusetts licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for General Contractor in Massachusetts? ▼
In Massachusetts, the license path calls for, a passing score on State Contractor License Exam, and a $345 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a General Contractor in Massachusetts? ▼
Massachusetts licenses general contractors who complete its requirements (4 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Massachusetts licensing board.
Can I transfer my General Contractor license to Massachusetts from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for general contractors: Usually not reciprocal — state-by-state basis. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Massachusetts licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Massachusetts require a background check for General Contractor licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for general contractor licensing in Massachusetts. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
How much does it cost to get a General Contractor license in Massachusetts? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Massachusetts is $150. The renewal fee is $100 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 5 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does General Contractor license processing take in Massachusetts? ▼
In Massachusetts, license processing for general contractors typically takes approximately 5 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.