Mississippi Contractor Licenses: Updated Requirements Guide

Mississippi regulates contractor licensing at the state level through the Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC). Commercial contractors must be licensed when projects meet statutory thresholds, and residential contractors are licensed for larger-scale residential construction, remodeling, and roofing. Core requirements typically include passing the Mississippi Law and Business Management Exam, meeting insurance and (for commercial) financial prerequisites, and documenting experience.

Electrical and mechanical work on commercial projects is licensed by MSBOC (e.g., Commercial Electrical and Commercial Mechanical classifications). By contrast, residential electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work is set by the local city or county where the work occurs. This guide spotlights several representative Mississippi licenses and authorities to help you get oriented; we update it periodically.

Overview of Mississippi Contractor Licensing

The Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC) regulates both commercial and residential contractors. Commercial licensure applies to major classifications such as Building Construction, Electrical, Mechanical, Heavy Construction, Highway/Street and Bridges, and Municipal and Public Works, typically for projects over $50,000. Residential licensure covers building, remodeling, and roofing, with key thresholds including $50,000 for new residential construction and $10,000 for residential remodeling or roofing.

Every applicant—commercial and residential—must pass the Mississippi Law and Business Management Exam before license approval. Commercial applicants must also meet insurance minimums and provide a CPA-prepared financial statement demonstrating net worth for major classifications. The Board offers NASCLA-accredited exam options for certain trades (e.g., Building Construction and Electrical), alongside Mississippi state trade exams. Residential electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work is overseen by the local city or county where the project occurs, while commercial electrical and mechanical work is licensed by MSBOC.

Primary Licensing Authority

Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC)

🌐 https://www.msboc.us
📞 Not provided in available sources

Electrician Licenses in Mississippi

Commercial electrical contracting over $50,000 is licensed at the state level by MSBOC under the Commercial Electrical Contractor classification. Residential electrical permitting and competency requirements are set by the local city or county where the work occurs.

Where to start

For commercial electrical licensure requirements, exams, and applications, visit MSBOC: https://www.msboc.us. For residential electrical rules, contact the building department in the city or county where you plan to work.

Exam Prep: Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material: View Mississippi study guides. PDF study guides typically include 1,500–2,500 questions, answer keys for every question, and reference locators pointing to exact code sections. Study offline at your own pace; no time or use limits.

Plumbing Licenses in Mississippi

Plumbing on commercial projects is regulated at the state level within MSBOC’s Commercial Mechanical Contractor classification (mechanical covers HVAC, plumbing, boilers, and process piping) when project value exceeds $50,000. Residential plumbing work is overseen by the local jurisdiction where the work is performed.

Where to start

For commercial mechanical/plumbing licensure, exams, and applications, visit MSBOC: https://www.msboc.us. For residential plumbing requirements, consult your city or county building department.

HVAC Licenses in Mississippi

Commercial HVAC is licensed by MSBOC within the Commercial Mechanical Contractor classification for projects over $50,000. Residential HVAC permitting and competency are determined by the local city or county where the work is performed.

Where to start

For state commercial mechanical (HVAC) licensing, exams, and applications, visit MSBOC: https://www.msboc.us. For residential HVAC rules, contact your local building department.

General Contractor Licenses in Mississippi

MSBOC issues commercial and residential contractor licenses across nine classifications. All applicants must pass the Mississippi Law & Business Management Exam, maintain general liability insurance, and meet additional requirements by classification. Commercial majors also require a CPA-prepared financial statement demonstrating minimum net worth.

Residential Builder License

Regulatory Authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us

Scope: Residential construction for one- and two-family dwellings not over three stories; also permits limited commercial construction up to 7,500 square feet. Required for residential construction valued over $50,000.

Exams and Experience

Mississippi Law & Business Management Exam (open-book)
Residential Contractor Trade Exam (NASCLA-equivalent option recognized)
Experience: Three completed residential building projects

Fees

Application: $50
Additional classification: $100

Insurance and Renewal

General liability: Minimum $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate
Workers’ compensation: Required if employing 5 or more
Renewal: Annual; expires one year from issuance

Application Requirements

Notarized application; proof of employment for qualifying party
Three reference letters (one bank, two prior work)
General liability insurance certificate; workers’ compensation if applicable
Mississippi income tax ID or federal EIN
Certificate of Good Standing (for corporations/LLCs/LLPs)
Pass required exams; provide business and personal tax returns

Notes: Valid for residential work within the stated limits and small commercial projects as noted.

Source: MSBOC Licensing

Exam Prep: Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material: Residential Builder study resources. PDF study guides typically include 1,500–2,500 questions with answer keys and reference locators. Study offline at your own pace with no usage limits.

Residential Remodeler License

Regulatory Authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us

Scope: Residential remodeling projects, including residential roofing, for work valued over $10,000.

Exams and Experience

Mississippi Law & Business Management Exam
Residential Contractor Trade Exam (NASCLA-equivalent option recognized)
Experience: Three completed residential remodeling projects

Fees

Application: $50
Additional classification: $100

Insurance and Renewal

General liability: Minimum $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate
Workers’ compensation: Required if employing 5 or more
Renewal: Annual; expires one year from issuance

Application Requirements

Notarized application; proof of employment for qualifying party
Three reference letters (one bank, two prior work)
Insurance certificates (GL and WC if applicable)
Tax ID (Mississippi income tax ID or federal EIN)
Certificate of Good Standing (if applicable)
Pass required exams; provide business and personal tax returns

Source: MSBOC Licensing

Exam Prep: Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material: Residential Remodeler study resources. PDF study guides typically include 1,500–2,500 questions with answer keys and reference locators. Study offline at your own pace with no usage limits.

Residential Roofer License

Regulatory Authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us

Scope: Residential roofing work valued over $10,000. This is a residential contractor classification specific to roofing.

Exams and Experience

Mississippi Law & Business Management Exam
Residential Contractor Trade Exam
Experience: Three completed residential roofing projects

Fees

Application: $50
Additional classification: $100

Insurance and Renewal

General liability: Minimum $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate
Workers’ compensation: Required if employing 5 or more
Renewal: Annual; expires one year from issuance

Application Requirements

Notarized application; proof of employment for qualifying party
Three reference letters (one bank, two prior work)
Insurance certificates (GL and WC if applicable)
Tax ID and (if applicable) Certificate of Good Standing
Pass required exams; provide business and personal tax returns

Source: MSBOC Licensing

Exam Prep: Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material: Residential Roofer study resources. PDF study guides typically include 1,500–2,500 questions with answer keys and reference locators. Study offline at your own pace with no usage limits.

Commercial Building Construction Contractor License

Regulatory Authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us

Scope: Required for commercial projects exceeding $50,000. Covers structural framing, foundations, roofing, interior/exterior finishes, and overall project coordination.

Exams and Experience

Mississippi Law & Business Management Exam
Commercial Building Construction Trade Exam or NASCLA-accredited Building exam
Documented experience as evidenced in the application

Fees

Application: $400 (includes one specialty)
Additional specialty: $100

Insurance and Financial Requirements

General liability: Minimum $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate
Workers’ compensation: Required if employing 5 or more
Financials: Reviewed or audited CPA statement (within 12 months) showing minimum $50,000 net worth

Renewal

Annual; expires one year from issuance

Application Requirements

Notarized application; proof of employment for qualifying party
Certificate of Good Standing (MS Secretary of State) for entities
MS sales or use tax number
Three reference letters (one bank, two previous work)
CPA financial statement meeting net worth minimum
Pass required exams; provide business registration proof

Source: MSBOC Licensing

Exam Prep: Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material for Building Construction: Commercial Building resources. PDF study guides typically include 1,500–2,500 questions with answer keys and code reference locators.

Commercial Electrical Contractor License

Regulatory Authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us

Scope: Required for commercial electrical work over $50,000. Applicants may choose the Mississippi electrical trade exam or the NASCLA-accredited electrical exam.

Exams and Experience

Mississippi Law & Business Management Exam
Commercial Electrical Trade Exam or NASCLA-accredited Electrical exam
Documented electrical contracting experience as evidenced in the application

Fees

Application: $400 (includes one specialty)
Additional specialty: $100

Insurance and Financial Requirements

General liability: Minimum $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate
Workers’ compensation: Required if employing 5 or more
Financials: Reviewed or audited CPA statement (within 12 months) showing minimum $50,000 net worth

Renewal

Annual; expires one year from issuance

Application Requirements

Notarized application; proof of employment for qualifying party
Certificate of Good Standing (for entities)
MS sales or use tax number
Three reference letters (one bank, two previous work)
CPA financial statement meeting net worth minimum
Pass required exams; provide business registration proof

Note: Residential electrical work is regulated by the city or county where the work is performed.

Source: MSBOC Licensing

Exam Prep: Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material for Electrical: Commercial Electrical resources. PDF study guides typically include 1,500–2,500 questions with answer keys and code reference locators.

Commercial Mechanical Contractor License

Regulatory Authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us

Scope: Required for commercial mechanical work—HVAC, plumbing, boilers, and process piping—over $50,000.

Exams and Experience

Mississippi Law & Business Management Exam
Commercial Mechanical Trade Exam
Documented mechanical contracting experience as evidenced in the application

Fees

Application: $400 (includes one specialty)
Additional specialty: $100

Insurance and Financial Requirements

General liability: Minimum $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate
Workers’ compensation: Required if employing 5 or more
Financials: Reviewed or audited CPA statement (within 12 months) showing minimum $50,000 net worth

Renewal

Annual; expires one year from issuance

Application Requirements

Notarized application; proof of employment for qualifying party
Certificate of Good Standing (for entities)
MS sales or use tax number
Three reference letters (one bank, two previous work)
CPA financial statement meeting net worth minimum
Pass required exams; provide business registration proof

Note: Residential plumbing and HVAC work is regulated by the city or county where the work is performed.

Source: MSBOC Licensing

Exam Prep: Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material for Mechanical: Commercial Mechanical resources. PDF study guides typically include 1,500–2,500 questions with answer keys and code reference locators.

Commercial Heavy Construction Contractor License

Regulatory Authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us

Scope: Required for heavy construction projects over $50,000.

Exams and Experience

Mississippi Law & Business Management Exam
Commercial Heavy Construction Trade Exam
Documented experience per application

Fees

Application: $400 (includes one specialty)
Additional specialty: $100

Insurance and Financial Requirements

General liability: Minimum $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate
Workers’ compensation: Required if employing 5 or more
Financials: Reviewed or audited CPA statement (within 12 months) showing minimum $50,000 net worth

Renewal

Annual; expires one year from issuance

Application Requirements

Notarized application; proof of employment for qualifying party
Certificate of Good Standing (for entities)
MS sales or use tax number
Three reference letters (one bank, two previous work)
CPA financial statement meeting net worth minimum
Pass required exams; provide business registration proof

Source: MSBOC Licensing

Exam Prep: Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material for Heavy Construction: Heavy Construction resources. PDF study guides typically include 1,500–2,500 questions with answer keys and code reference locators.

Commercial Highway/Street and Bridges Contractor License

Regulatory Authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us

Scope: Required for highway, street, and bridge work over $50,000.

Exams and Experience

Mississippi Law & Business Management Exam
Commercial Highway/Street and Bridges Trade Exam
Documented experience per application

Fees

Application: $400 (includes one specialty)
Additional specialty: $100

Insurance and Financial Requirements

General liability: Minimum $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate
Workers’ compensation: Required if employing 5 or more
Financials: Reviewed or audited CPA statement (within 12 months) showing minimum $50,000 net worth

Renewal

Annual; expires one year from issuance

Application Requirements

Notarized application; proof of employment for qualifying party
Certificate of Good Standing (for entities)
MS sales or use tax number
Three reference letters (one bank, two previous work)
CPA financial statement meeting net worth minimum
Pass required exams; provide business registration proof

Source: MSBOC Licensing

Exam Prep: Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material for Highway/Street and Bridges: Highway & Bridges resources. PDF study guides typically include 1,500–2,500 questions with answer keys and code reference locators.

Commercial Municipal and Public Works Contractor License

Regulatory Authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us

Scope: Required for municipal and public works projects over $50,000.

Exams and Experience

Mississippi Law & Business Management Exam
Commercial Municipal and Public Works Trade Exam
Documented experience per application

Fees

Application: $400 (includes one specialty)
Additional specialty: $100

Insurance and Financial Requirements

General liability: Minimum $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate
Workers’ compensation: Required if employing 5 or more
Financials: Reviewed or audited CPA statement (within 12 months) showing minimum $50,000 net worth

Renewal

Annual; expires one year from issuance

Application Requirements

Notarized application; proof of employment for qualifying party
Certificate of Good Standing (for entities)
MS sales or use tax number
Three reference letters (one bank, two previous work)
CPA financial statement meeting net worth minimum
Pass required exams; provide business registration proof

Source: MSBOC Licensing

Exam Prep: Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material for Public Works: Municipal & Public Works resources. PDF study guides typically include 1,500–2,500 questions with answer keys and code reference locators.

For additional study support across Mississippi contractor classifications, you can also browse the full catalog of resources: Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material.

Roofing Licenses in Mississippi

Mississippi regulates residential roofing through a dedicated residential contractor classification when project value exceeds $10,000.

Residential Roofer License

Regulatory Authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us

Scope: Residential roofing work over $10,000. Classified under residential contracting with specific coverage for roofing.

Exams and Experience

Mississippi Law & Business Management Exam
Residential Contractor Trade Exam
Experience: Three completed roofing projects

Fees

Application: $50
Additional classification: $100

Insurance and Renewal

General liability: Minimum $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate
Workers’ compensation: Required if employing 5 or more
Renewal: Annual; expires one year from issuance

Application Requirements

Notarized application; proof of employment for qualifying party
Three reference letters (one bank, two prior work)
Insurance certificates (GL and WC if applicable)
Mississippi income tax ID or federal EIN; Certificate of Good Standing if applicable
Pass required exams; provide business and personal tax returns

Source: MSBOC Licensing

Exam Prep: Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material for Roofing: Residential Roofer resources. PDF study guides typically include 1,500–2,500 questions with answer keys and code reference locators.

Need help with another Mississippi trade? Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material.

Specialty Trade Licenses in Mississippi

MSBOC also oversees certain specialty classifications and the mandatory statewide business and law exam for all contractor applicants.

Mississippi Law and Business Management Exam (Mandatory for All Applicants)

Regulatory Authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — Testing information: https://www.msboc.us/general-info/testing/

Scope: Required for all commercial and residential contractor applicants prior to license approval.

Exam Details

Open-book; 80 questions; 3 hours; 70% passing score
Content includes business management, contracts, lien law, accounting, insurance, taxes, safety, Mississippi construction law, mechanics liens, bonds, consumer protection, contractor responsibilities, OSHA compliance, and workers’ compensation rules

Note: Out-of-state waivers apply to certain trade exams only—this Business and Law exam is still required for all applicants.

Source: MSBOC Testing

Exam Prep: Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material for the Law & Business exam: Business & Law resources. PDF study guides typically include 1,500–2,500 questions with answer keys and code reference locators. Study offline with no time or use limits.

Commercial Fire Sprinkler Systems Contractor (Specialty Classification)

Regulatory Authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us

Scope and Thresholds: Fire sprinkler work on commercial projects exceeding $5,000 (or residential projects over $10,000) requires a commercial contractor license with the appropriate specialty classification.

Exams and Requirements

Mississippi Law & Business Management Exam
Applicable trade exam for fire sprinkler systems
Meet general commercial contractor requirements (including financial and insurance standards)

Fees

Application: $400 (commercial specialty)

Source: MSBOC program information and trade references; see overview resources above.

Exam Prep: Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material for Fire Sprinkler specialty: Fire Sprinkler resources. PDF study guides typically include 1,500–2,500 questions with answer keys and code reference locators.

Explore more classifications and study tools here: Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material.

Application Process

1. Prepare and complete notarized application form (must be printed and mailed – no online submission for full application)
2. For corporations/LLCs/LLPs: Obtain Certificate of Good Standing from Mississippi Secretary of State
3. Obtain Mississippi sales tax number (or use tax number for commercial) or Mississippi income tax ID
4. Provide proof of general liability insurance ($300,000 per occurrence minimum)
5. If 5+ employees: Provide workers compensation insurance proof
6. Compile three reference letters (one from bank, two from prior work contacts)
7. Document proof of employment for each qualifying party
8. For commercial: Provide reviewed/audited financial statement from CPA showing required net worth
9. For residential: Provide documentation of three prior projects
10. Mail completed application, all documents, and application fee to MSBOC
11. Wait for Board review and approval
12. Receive exam authorization
13. Schedule and take required exams (Law & Business Management + Trade Exam)
14. Submit exam results to MSBOC
15. Receive license approval and valid contractor license

Timeline: Approximately 7–10 days after passing exams and submitting all required documentation; the total process typically takes 2–4 weeks from initial application to license issuance.

Reciprocity

Available with: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana

Requirements: Hold a valid license for three consecutive years in a reciprocating state and provide proof of licensure history. Reciprocity generally provides a trade exam waiver only; the Mississippi Law and Business Management exam remains required for all applicants.

Limitations: Alabama: waives all but Mechanical and Plumbing (may grant HVAC waiver). Arkansas: waives all but Mechanical or Electrical. Georgia: requires that the Georgia exam has been taken. Louisiana: specific limitations apply to Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical waivers. Always confirm current reciprocity terms with MSBOC.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a contractor license in Mississippi?

After you pass the required exams and submit all documents, MSBOC typically processes licensure in about 7–10 days. From initial application to issuance, most candidates complete the process within 2–4 weeks.

Can I transfer my license from another state to Mississippi?

Mississippi offers reciprocity with Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, and Louisiana, typically as a trade exam waiver. You must have held a valid license in the reciprocal state for three consecutive years and still pass Mississippi’s Law & Business Management Exam.

What happens if I fail a required exam?

Retake policies are set by the exam provider and the Board’s current procedures. Review the MSBOC testing page and your scheduling confirmation for retake rules and any applicable waiting periods.

Do I need insurance?

Yes. General liability insurance is required for all contractor licenses (commonly $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate). Workers’ compensation is required if you employ five or more people.

How do I renew my license?

Licenses renew annually and expire one year from issuance. MSBOC provides renewal instructions with each license; renew before expiration to avoid lapses.

Are residential electrical, plumbing, and HVAC licenses handled by the state?

Residential electrical, plumbing, and HVAC permitting and competency are set locally by the city or county where the work occurs. Commercial electrical and mechanical work is licensed at the state level by MSBOC.

Where can I find practice tests for Mississippi exams?

We offer comprehensive PDF-based study materials for Mississippi contractor exams. Each guide typically includes 1,500–2,500 questions with detailed answer keys and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline at your own pace. Browse Mississippi contractor license practice tests and study material.

Related Official Resources

Official Sources for Further Details:

Mississippi State Board of Contractors
https://www.msboc.us
Official Regulatory Authority Homepage | Accessed: 2026-05-12
Mississippi State Board of Contractors – Licensing Information
https://www.msboc.us/contractors/licenses/
Official Board License Application Page | Accessed: 2026-05-12
Mississippi State Board of Contractors – Testing Information
https://www.msboc.us/general-info/testing/
Official Board Examination Page | Accessed: 2026-05-12
Mississippi State Board of Contractors – Frequently Asked Questions
https://www.msboc.us/general-info/frequently-asked-questions/
Official Board FAQ | Accessed: 2026-05-12
Mississippi State Board of Contractors – Reciprocity Information
https://www.msboc.us/one-stop-shop/
Official Board Reciprocity Page | Accessed: 2026-05-12
Mississippi State Board of Contractors – Commercial Application
https://www.msboc.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/COMMERCIAL-APPLICATION-updated-7-2024.pdf
Official Board Application Form | Accessed: 2026-05-12
NASCLA – North American Statute and Code Administration
https://nascla.org
Official Examination Provider | Accessed: 2026-05-12

Important Disclaimer

Information Currency: This guide reflects Mississippi licensing information available in 2026. Requirements can change. Always verify current rules and forms with MSBOC before applying.

Official Source: Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC):

Website: https://www.msboc.us
Phone: Not provided in available sources

No Legal Advice: This guide provides general information. Consult MSBOC or a qualified professional for advice specific to your circumstances.

Local Requirements: Residential electrical, plumbing, and HVAC requirements are set by the local jurisdiction where work occurs. Confirm local rules before starting work.