Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Trades
General Contractor Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for general contractor in Massachusetts, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for General Contractor in Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$147,750 median (38% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Massachusetts eligibility requirements for General Contractor licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Submit the application to Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Massachusetts
With a median salary of $147,750, General Contractors in Massachusetts earn 38% above the national median of $106,980. Massachusetts ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,805Median annual salary
$147,750Hourly estimate
$71.0338% above national median
Difference: +$40,770
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationGeneral Contractor Salary Ranking
#1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $147,750 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| New Hampshire | $106,980 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Vermont | $99,660 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| New York | $135,530 | No educational requirements | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $118,680 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Rhode Island | $103,500 | Specific course required | No 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Hampshire | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 64 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Connecticut | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Rhode Island | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation
10 Park Plaza, Suite 5170, Boston, MA, 02116
Phone: 6179738700
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $87,270 | Degree required | 1-3 years |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $57,470 | Degree required | 1-3 years |
| Carpenter | $71,110 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $79,220 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a General Contractor in Massachusetts?
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 exams are required for General Contractors in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for General Contractors.
What education do you need to become a General Contractor in Massachusetts?
The board typically expects Specific course required for General Contractor licensure in Massachusetts.
What is the typical General Contractor salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for General Contractors in Massachusetts is $147,750. Salaries range from $101,520 (10th percentile) to $214,910 (90th percentile).
How does the General Contractor salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
General Contractors in Massachusetts earn 38% above the national median of $106,980, with a state median of $147,750.
How many General Contractors work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 9,000 General Contractors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my General Contractor license to Massachusetts from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for General Contractors in Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/ocabr/consumer-rights-and-resources/home-improvement-contract/.
How often do you renew a General Contractor license in Massachusetts?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.