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Contractor License in Mississippi

State license

Mississippi licenses contractors through the Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC), which now oversees both commercial and residential contractors and roofers. A state license is required once a project exceeds the applicable dollar threshold; below those thresholds, work is generally unregulated at the state level but local permits still apply.

Quick facts

When a license is neededCommercial: state license required for projects over $50,000. Residential: over $50,000 for new construction; over $10,000 for residential remodeling or roofing. Subcontractors performing electrical, mechanical, HVAC, or plumbing on residential projects must be licensed regardless of amount.
ExperienceApplicants must demonstrate experience and submit reference letters and proof of employment/financials; no single fixed number of years is published for all classes.
ExamYes. All applicants must pass the Mississippi Law & Business Management exam. Commercial applicants must also pass a trade exam or an accepted NASCLA exam.
InsuranceWorkers' compensation required for contractors with employees (Mississippi requires it in construction with one or more employees); general liability is commonly required for licensure and permits.
FeesReported at roughly $200 for the application/one classification plus $50 per additional classification for some categories; commercial new license around $400 and commercial renewal about $200/year; residential builder/remodeler/roofer roughly $50 initial and $100 annual renewal. Confirm exact current figures with MSBOC.
RenewalLicenses generally renew annually (commercial renewal reported around $200).
ReciprocityMSBOC has reciprocity with several states (including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee) that can waive the trade exam, but the Law & Business Management exam is required of all applicants.
Main agencyMississippi State Board of Contractors
Official sitehttps://www.msboc.us/contractors/licenses/
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 Mississippi board →

License classifications

How to get licensed in Mississippi

  1. Determine whether your project value crosses the commercial ($50,000) or residential ($50,000 new / $10,000 remodel-roofing) threshold.
  2. Gather required documents: financial statement, reference letters, and proof of experience.
  3. Register and pass the Mississippi Law & Business Management exam (plus a trade or NASCLA exam for commercial classifications).
  4. Submit the license application with the applicable fee to MSBOC.
  5. Provide required insurance/workers' compensation documentation.
  6. Renew the license as required (commercial typically annually).

Frequently asked questions

When do I need a Mississippi contractor license?

For commercial projects over $50,000, new residential construction over $50,000, and residential remodeling or roofing over $10,000. Residential electrical, mechanical, HVAC, and plumbing subcontractors must be licensed regardless of value.

Does Mississippi accept the NASCLA exam?

Yes. NASCLA accredited exams are accepted, which can help experienced multi-state commercial builders avoid retaking a trade exam.

Do I still have to take an exam if I hold a license in another state?

Reciprocity can waive the Mississippi trade exam for certain states, but the Law & Business Management exam is required of every applicant.

Who regulates residential builders in Mississippi?

The Mississippi State Board of Contractors now oversees residential builders, remodelers, and roofers along with commercial contractors.

What is the residential remodeling threshold?

Residential remodeling or roofing work over $10,000 requires a state license, which is lower than the $50,000 threshold for new residential construction.

Sources

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