Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MD Board of Trades
General Contractor Licensing in Maryland
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for general contractor in Maryland, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for General Contractor in Maryland
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Maryland Department of Labor • Board of Home Improvement
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$128,500 median (20% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#8 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Maryland eligibility requirements for General Contractor licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to Maryland Department of Labor~Board of Home Improvement and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Maryland
With a median salary of $128,500, General Contractors in Maryland earn 20% above the national median of $106,980. Maryland ranks #8 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,497Median annual salary
$128,500Hourly estimate
$61.7820% above national median
Difference: +$21,520
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationGeneral Contractor Salary Ranking
#8 of 50 statesfor General Contractor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Massachusetts | $147,750 |
| #2 | Washington | $136,180 |
| #3 | Alaska | $135,630 |
| #4 | New York | $135,530 |
| #5 | Delaware | $135,200 |
Nearby States Comparison
General Contractor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $128,500 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Pennsylvania | $103,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Delaware | $135,200 | No educational requirements | No exam required | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $76,150 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $107,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Maryland Department of Labor • Board of Home Improvement
1100 N Eutaw Street, Baltimore, MD, 21201
Phone: 4102306176
Related Careers in Maryland
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $97,660 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $57,560 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Carpenter | $60,130 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $71,990 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a General Contractor in Maryland?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical General Contractor salary in Maryland?
The median annual salary for General Contractors in Maryland is $128,500. Salaries range from $79,820 (10th percentile) to $198,220 (90th percentile).
How does the General Contractor salary in Maryland compare to the national average?
General Contractors in Maryland earn 20% above the national median of $106,980, with a state median of $128,500.
How many General Contractors work in Maryland?
Maryland employs approximately 5,780 General Contractors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my General Contractor license to Maryland from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for General Contractors in Maryland?
The licensing agency is Maryland Department of Labor / Board of Home Improvement. Review agency details at http://www.psiexams.com/.
How often do you renew a General Contractor license in Maryland?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.