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Contractor License in Maryland

State license

Maryland licenses residential contractors through the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC), part of the Department of Labor. Any contractor performing home improvement work at a Maryland residential property for $500 or more per contract must hold an MHIC contractor license. (New commercial construction is generally not MHIC-regulated.)

Quick facts

When a license is neededMHIC license required for home improvement work of $500 or more per contract.
ExperienceAt least two years of experience in home improvement/construction or related education.
ExamYes. Applicants must pass the MHIC licensing exam (administered by PSI) before applying.
BondNo bond in most cases; applicants who do not meet financial-solvency guidelines may satisfy the requirement with a surety bond or an indemnitor. Contractors also pay into the Guaranty Fund.
InsuranceProof of current $50,000 general liability insurance must be filed with the application and kept active.
FeesApplication fee $281.25 (effective Aug 1, 2024); new-license Guaranty Fund contribution $100; renewal Guaranty Fund assessment $175 per two-year term.
RenewalTwo-year license term. Renewal requires paying the Guaranty Fund assessment and maintaining insurance.
Main agencyMaryland Home Improvement Commission
Official sitehttps://www.dllr.state.md.us/cgi-bin/ElectronicLicensing/OP_search/OP_search.cgi
Requirements, thresholds, and fees change, and local rules can be stricter than the state. Always confirm directly with the board and your local building department before you bid or pull a permit. This page is a starting point, not legal advice.
Apply / official Maryland board →

License classifications

How to get licensed in Maryland

  1. Confirm you have at least two years of home improvement/construction experience or qualifying education.
  2. Pass the MHIC licensing exam through PSI Examinations.
  3. Obtain and file proof of current $50,000 general liability insurance.
  4. Demonstrate financial solvency (or provide a surety bond/indemnitor) and register your trade name.
  5. Submit the MHIC application with fees (application fee plus Guaranty Fund contribution) through the Maryland Labor licensing portal; renew every two years.

Frequently asked questions

When do I need an MHIC license?

For any home improvement work at a Maryland residential property with a contract of $500 or more.

How much experience is required for MHIC?

At least two years of experience in home improvement work or construction, or qualifying related education.

Is there an exam for the MHIC license?

Yes. Applicants must pass the MHIC exam through PSI before submitting a license application.

What insurance does MHIC require?

Proof of current $50,000 general liability insurance must be filed with the application and maintained continuously.

How long is an MHIC license valid?

Two years from issuance. Renewal includes a Guaranty Fund assessment of $175 per two-year period.

Sources

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Guide compiled from official Maryland licensing-board sources. Verify current details with the board before acting; licensing rules change.