Mississippi Contractor Licenses: Updated Requirements Guide
Mississippi licenses contractors at the state level through the Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC). Whether you work as a general building contractor or in a specialty trade such as electrical, mechanical/HVAC, plumbing, roofing, fire sprinkler, construction management, or residential solar, Mississippi uses a statewide structure with clear dollar thresholds that trigger licensure.
Licenses are issued as either commercial or residential based on project type and contract value. Commercial projects over $50,000 require a commercial license; new residential construction over $50,000, residential remodeling or additions over $10,000, and residential roofing over $10,000 require a residential license. Subcontractors in key trades are also licensed by MSBOC when working on qualifying projects.
We highlight several representative licenses and authorities for Mississippi below; this guide is updated periodically as additional details are refined. Use the Quick Navigation to jump to your trade, and always confirm current requirements with MSBOC before bidding or starting work.
Quick Navigation
Overview of Mississippi Contractor Licensing
MSBOC is the statewide authority for contractor licensing across Mississippi. The Board oversees commercial and residential contractors and key specialty subcontractors, including electrical, mechanical/HVAC, plumbing, roofing, fire sprinkler, construction managers, and residential solar. Licenses are classification-based and align with the work you intend to perform.
Thresholds determine when a license is required. For commercial work, a license is required when the contract exceeds $50,000 (including equipment, labor, and materials). Residential licensing applies to new construction over $50,000; residential remodeling or additions over $10,000; and residential roofing over $10,000. Subcontractors performing residential electrical, mechanical/HVAC, plumbing, and roofing on qualifying residential projects are also licensed by MSBOC.
Most applicants designate a qualifying party, provide references, document experience, and submit a recent CPA-prepared financial statement that meets MSBOC net worth standards for the requested classification. All commercial and residential applicants must pass the Mississippi Law and Business Management exam and any required trade exam for their classification, unless they qualify for an exam waiver granted by the Board.
Browse all Mississippi contractor license practice tests →
Electrician Licenses in Mississippi
Mississippi regulates electrical work with 2 license types.
Residential License — Residential Electrical Contractor
Regulatory authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us
Who needs this license
Residential electrical subcontractors working on residential construction or improvement projects must hold an MSBOC residential license, regardless of project dollar amount. This credential covers residential electrical contracting within the residential thresholds established by the Board.
Eligibility and documentation
- Document relevant construction experience aligned to the electrical classification.
- Provide three reference letters: one from a bank and two from construction professionals.
- Designate a qualifying party and provide proof of employment/association.
- Submit a recent CPA-prepared financial statement that meets MSBOC standards for residential classifications.
Exams
- Mississippi Law and Business Management exam (50 questions; 70% passing score).
- Any electrical trade exam required for the classification (70% passing score).
- Exam provider: contact MSBOC to verify the current testing vendor and scheduling process.
Fees
- Application: $50
- Renewal: $100 (annual)
Insurance
- General liability insurance is required; MSBOC’s FAQ does not publish a specific minimum limit for residential licenses.
- Workers’ compensation is required if employing five or more people.
Renewal
- Annual renewal.
Contact MSBOC to confirm examination fees, approved exam provider, and any continuing education or renewal documentation not specified here.
Source: MSBOC FAQ
Commercial License — Commercial Electrical Contractor
Regulatory authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us
Who needs this license
Electrical contractors and subcontractors must hold a commercial license for commercial projects with contracts over $50,000, including equipment installation. This license aligns with MSBOC’s commercial thresholds and applies across electrical scopes on qualifying commercial jobs.
Eligibility and documentation
- CPA-prepared financial statement within the last 12 months meeting MSBOC net worth criteria (commonly cited benchmarks include $50,000 for general construction and $20,000 for specialty classifications).
- Three reference letters (bank plus two construction professionals).
- Documented project experience and proof of qualifying party employment/association.
Exams
- Mississippi Law and Business Management exam (70% passing score).
- Electrical trade exam if required for the classification (70% passing score).
- Exam provider: contact MSBOC to verify current vendor and scheduling details.
Fees
- Application: $400
- Renewal: $400 (annual)
Insurance
- General liability insurance: at least $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate.
- Workers’ compensation required for businesses with five or more employees.
Renewal
- Annual renewal.
Contact MSBOC to confirm examination fees, approved exam provider, and any continuing education or renewal documentation not specified here.
Source: MSBOC FAQ
Plumbing Licenses in Mississippi
Mississippi regulates plumbing work with 2 license types.
Residential License — Residential Plumbing Contractor
Regulatory authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us
Who needs this license
Subcontractors performing residential plumbing on new construction or improvement projects must hold an MSBOC residential license when project thresholds apply. This credential covers residential plumbing contracting in line with MSBOC’s residential definitions.
Eligibility and documentation
- CPA-prepared financial statement within the last 12 months meeting MSBOC standards for residential classifications.
- Three reference letters (one bank, two construction professionals).
- Proof of qualifying party employment/association and documented plumbing project experience.
Exams
- Mississippi Law and Business Management exam (70% passing score).
- Any plumbing trade exam required for the classification (70% passing score).
- Exam provider: verify current testing vendor and scheduling with MSBOC.
Fees
- Application: $50
- Renewal: $100 (annual)
Insurance
- General liability insurance is required; MSBOC’s FAQ does not publish a specific minimum limit for residential licenses.
- Workers’ compensation is required if employing five or more individuals.
Renewal
- Annual renewal.
Contact MSBOC to confirm examination fees, exam vendor, and any continuing education or renewal documentation not specified here.
Source: MSBOC FAQ
Commercial License — Commercial Plumbing Contractor
Regulatory authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us
Who needs this license
Plumbing contractors and subcontractors must hold a commercial license for commercial jobs with contracts exceeding $50,000. This license covers plumbing scopes on qualifying commercial projects statewide.
Eligibility and documentation
- CPA-prepared financial statement meeting MSBOC net worth standards for commercial classifications.
- Three reference letters (bank and two construction professionals).
- Documented plumbing project history and proof of qualifying party employment/association.
Exams
- Mississippi Law and Business Management exam (70% passing score).
- Any plumbing trade exam associated with the classification (70% passing score).
- Exam provider: verify current testing vendor and scheduling with MSBOC.
Fees
- Application: $400
- Renewal: $400 (annual)
Insurance
- General liability insurance: at least $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate.
- Workers’ compensation required if five or more employees.
Renewal
- Annual renewal.
Contact MSBOC to confirm examination fees, exam vendor, and any continuing education or renewal documentation not specified here.
Source: MSBOC FAQ
HVAC Licenses in Mississippi
Mississippi regulates HVAC contractors with 2 license types.
Residential License — Residential HVAC Contractor
Regulatory authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us
Who needs this license
Subcontractors performing residential mechanical/HVAC work on residential construction or improvement projects must hold an MSBOC residential license when residential thresholds apply. This covers HVAC installation, service, and related scopes on qualifying residential jobs.
Eligibility and documentation
- CPA-prepared financial statement consistent with MSBOC requirements for residential classifications.
- Three reference letters (bank plus two construction professionals).
- Proof of qualifying party employment/association and documented HVAC project experience.
Exams
- Mississippi Law and Business Management exam (70% passing score).
- Any mechanical/HVAC trade exam required for the classification (70% passing score).
- Exam provider: verify current testing vendor and scheduling with MSBOC.
Fees
- Application: $50
- Renewal: $100 (annual)
Insurance
- General liability insurance is required; MSBOC’s FAQ does not publish a specific minimum limit for residential licenses.
- Workers’ compensation required if five or more employees.
Renewal
- Annual renewal.
Contact MSBOC to confirm examination fees, the current exam provider, and any continuing education or renewal documentation not specified here.
Source: MSBOC FAQ
Commercial License — Commercial HVAC Contractor
Regulatory authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us
Who needs this license
Mechanical/HVAC contractors and subcontractors on commercial jobs with contract values exceeding $50,000 must hold a commercial license. This license covers HVAC and mechanical scopes on qualifying commercial projects in Mississippi.
Eligibility and documentation
- CPA-prepared financial statement meeting MSBOC commercial standards.
- Three reference letters (bank plus two construction professionals).
- HVAC project documentation and proof of qualifying party employment/association.
Exams
- Mississippi Law and Business Management exam (70% passing score).
- Any HVAC/mechanical trade exam required for the classification (70% passing score).
- Exam provider: verify current testing vendor and scheduling with MSBOC.
Fees
- Application: $400
- Renewal: $400 (annual)
Insurance
- General liability insurance: at least $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate.
- Workers’ compensation required if five or more employees.
Renewal
- Annual renewal.
Contact MSBOC to confirm examination fees, the current exam provider, and any continuing education or renewal documentation not specified here.
Source: MSBOC FAQ
General Contractor Licenses in Mississippi
Mississippi general contractor licensing includes 2 types.
Commercial License — Commercial General Contractor
Regulatory authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us
Who needs this license
Contractors overseeing commercial building work where the contract exceeds $50,000 require an MSBOC commercial license. This classification covers general construction activities on qualifying commercial projects, including work performed by subcontractors under the prime contract.
Eligibility and documentation
- CPA-prepared audited or reviewed financial statement within the last 12 months meeting MSBOC net worth requirements (benchmarks often cited include $50,000 for general construction and $20,000 for specialty classifications).
- At least three completed projects related to the requested classification.
- Three reference letters (one bank and two construction professionals).
- Qualifying party designation with proof of employment/association.
Exams
- Mississippi Law and Business Management exam (50 questions; 70% passing score).
- Applicable trade exam for the classification; for Commercial Building, MSBOC may accept the NASCLA Commercial General Building exam in lieu of the state trade exam.
- Exam provider: contact MSBOC to verify current vendor and scheduling instructions.
Fees
- Application: $400
- Renewal: $400 (annual)
Insurance
- General liability insurance: at least $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate.
- Workers’ compensation required if employing five or more workers.
Renewal
- Annual renewal.
Contact MSBOC to confirm examination fees, exam provider details, and any continuing education or renewal documentation not specified here.
Sources: MSBOC FAQ, Apply for a License
Residential License — Residential Contractor
Regulatory authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us
Who needs this license
Residential contractors must be licensed for new residential construction over $50,000; residential remodeling or additions over $10,000; and residential roofing over $10,000. Residential subcontractors in electrical, mechanical/HVAC, plumbing, and roofing must also hold appropriate MSBOC licensure when working on qualifying residential projects.
Eligibility and documentation
- CPA-prepared financial statement within the last 12 months meeting MSBOC standards for residential classifications.
- Three reference letters (bank plus two construction professionals).
- Documented residential project experience and proof of qualifying party employment/association.
Exams
- Mississippi Law and Business Management exam (70% passing score).
- Any residential trade exam required for the classification; the Residential Contractor exam is reported to include approximately 80 questions with a 3-hour time limit and a 70% passing score.
- Exam provider: verify current vendor and scheduling with MSBOC.
Fees
- Application: $50
- Renewal: $100 (annual)
Insurance
- General liability insurance is required; MSBOC’s FAQ does not publish a specific minimum limit for residential licenses.
- Workers’ compensation required for firms with five or more employees.
Renewal
- Annual renewal.
Contact MSBOC to confirm examination fees, exam provider details, and any continuing education or renewal documentation not specified here.
Sources: MSBOC FAQ, Apply for a License
Roofing Licenses in Mississippi
Mississippi regulates roofing contractors with 1 license type.
Residential License — Residential Roofing Contractor
Regulatory authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us
Who needs this license
Residential roofing contracts over $10,000 require an MSBOC residential license. This applies to roof replacement, major repair, and installation work that meets or exceeds the residential roofing threshold.
Eligibility and documentation
- CPA-prepared financial statement consistent with residential licensing standards.
- Three reference letters (bank plus two construction professionals).
- Evidence of roofing project experience and proof of qualifying party employment/association.
Exams
- Mississippi Law and Business Management exam (70% passing score).
- Any roofing-related trade exam required for the classification (70% passing score).
- Exam provider: contact MSBOC to verify the current testing vendor and scheduling process.
Fees
- Application: $50
- Renewal: $100 (annual)
Insurance
- General liability insurance is required; MSBOC’s FAQ does not publish a specific minimum limit for residential licenses.
- Workers’ compensation required if employing five or more people.
Renewal
- Annual renewal.
Contact MSBOC to confirm examination fees, the current exam provider, and any continuing education or renewal documentation not specified here.
Source: MSBOC FAQ
Specialty Trade Licenses in Mississippi
Mississippi regulates specialty trades with 4 license types.
Commercial License — Fire Sprinkler Contractor
Regulatory authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us
Who needs this license
Contracts involving the construction, reconstruction, repair, or maintenance of fire sprinkler systems require an MSBOC commercial license when the project is on a public job over $5,000 or a private job over $10,000. This classification ensures competency and insurance fitness for fire protection work statewide.
Eligibility and documentation
- CPA-prepared financial statement meeting MSBOC commercial standards.
- Three reference letters (bank and two construction professionals).
- Proof of qualifying party employment/association and documented fire protection project experience.
Exams
- Mississippi Law and Business Management exam (70% passing score).
- Any fire protection trade exam required for the classification (70% passing score).
- Exam provider: verify current testing vendor and scheduling with MSBOC.
Fees
- Application: $400
- Renewal: $400 (annual)
Insurance
- General liability insurance: at least $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate.
- Workers’ compensation required for firms with five or more employees.
Renewal
- Annual renewal.
Contact MSBOC to confirm examination fees, approved exam provider, and any continuing education or renewal documentation not specified here.
Source: MSBOC FAQ
Residential License — Residential Solar Contractor
Regulatory authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us
Who needs this license
MSBOC requires state licensure for residential solar contractors. This classification covers residential solar installation and associated scopes that meet residential licensing thresholds.
Eligibility and documentation
- CPA-prepared financial statement that meets MSBOC residential standards.
- Three reference letters (bank and two construction professionals).
- Qualifying party designation with proof of employment/association, plus documented solar or related construction experience.
Exams
- Mississippi Law and Business Management exam (70% passing score).
- Any solar/renewable energy trade exam required for the classification (70% passing score).
- Exam provider: verify current testing vendor and scheduling with MSBOC.
Fees
- Application: $50
- Renewal: $100 (annual)
Insurance
- General liability insurance is required; MSBOC’s FAQ does not publish a specific minimum limit for residential licenses.
- Workers’ compensation required where applicable (five or more employees).
Renewal
- Annual renewal.
Contact MSBOC to confirm examination fees, the current exam provider, and any continuing education or renewal documentation not specified here.
Source: MSBOC FAQ
Commercial License — Construction Manager
Regulatory authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us
Who needs this license
MSBOC requires a state license for construction managers who oversee and coordinate construction projects within commercial licensure thresholds. This classification ensures responsible management of project scope, cost, schedule, and subcontractors on qualifying commercial work.
Eligibility and documentation
- CPA-prepared financial statement meeting MSBOC’s commercial standards.
- Three reference letters (bank plus two construction professionals).
- Qualifying party designation and documentation of construction management or contracting experience.
Exams
- Mississippi Law and Business Management exam (70% passing score).
- Any trade/management-related exam required by MSBOC for this classification (70% passing score).
- Exam provider: verify current testing vendor and scheduling with MSBOC.
Fees
- Application: $400
- Renewal: $400 (annual)
Insurance
- General liability insurance: at least $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate.
- Workers’ compensation required for firms with five or more employees.
Renewal
- Annual renewal.
Contact MSBOC to confirm examination fees, the current exam provider, and any continuing education or renewal documentation not specified here.
Source: MSBOC FAQ
Mississippi Law and Business Management Exam
Regulatory authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors — https://www.msboc.us
This is a required examination for commercial and residential licensure rather than a standalone license. All applicants must pass it unless they qualify for a Board-approved waiver.
About the exam
- 50 questions; minimum passing score is 70% (35 correct).
- Content areas cover Mississippi contractor law, business regulations, project management, and financial responsibilities.
- Exam provider: verify the current testing vendor and registration process with MSBOC.
Contact MSBOC to confirm exam fees and scheduling details for the Law and Business exam.
Sources: MSBOC FAQ
Application Process
- Determine whether you need a commercial or residential license based on project type and dollar thresholds: commercial projects over $50,000 require a commercial license; new residential construction over $50,000, residential remodeling or additions over $10,000, and residential roofing over $10,000 require a residential license.[6]
- Select the appropriate license classification(s) (general construction, specialty trades such as electrical, mechanical/HVAC, plumbing, roofing, fire sprinkler, solar, construction manager) consistent with the work you intend to perform.[6][3][11]
- Obtain a CPA-prepared financial statement (audit, review, or compilation as required) within the last 12 months that meets MSBOC net worth requirements for the chosen classification (often $50,000 for general construction and $20,000 for specialty classifications).[3][11][20]
- Gather required documentation: proof of business registration with the Mississippi Secretary of State for corporations/LLCs, Mississippi sales or use tax number for commercial licenses, income tax or federal tax ID for residential licenses, certificate of general liability insurance, workers’ compensation (if five or more employees), three reference letters (bank and construction professionals), and proof of employment for the qualifying party.[6][11][20]
- Download and complete the appropriate MSBOC application form (commercial or residential) from the MSBOC website, ensuring all sections are completed and notarized where required.[7][20]
- Submit the application, fee, and supporting documentation to MSBOC by mail to the Board’s Jackson address or P.O. Box as indicated on the application forms.[6][20]
- After MSBOC reviews and processes the application, schedule and pass the required Mississippi Law and Business Management exam and any applicable trade exam through the Board’s designated exam provider.[6][3][11]
- Following successful exam completion, MSBOC staff present the application to the Board at a scheduled Board meeting for final approval; upon approval, MSBOC issues the license certificate and wallet card.[3][11]
- Maintain the license by renewing annually, keeping insurance coverage in force, and complying with all MSBOC rules and Mississippi contractor laws.[6][17]
Timeline: Non-governmental summaries report 2–6 weeks for application processing and a few additional weeks for exam scheduling and Board approval, with licenses typically issued shortly after Board meetings; exact timelines may vary and are not formally guaranteed by MSBOC.[3][11]
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a contractor license in Mississippi?
Non-governmental summaries report 2–6 weeks for application processing and a few additional weeks for exam scheduling and Board approval, with licenses typically issued shortly after Board meetings; exact timelines may vary and are not formally guaranteed by MSBOC.[3][11]
Can I transfer my license from another state to Mississippi?
MSBOC materials cited here do not provide a formal list of reciprocal states. Contact MSBOC to discuss current options, including whether your exam history may qualify you for any waivers. For the Commercial General Building classification, MSBOC may accept the NASCLA Commercial General Building exam in lieu of a Mississippi trade exam, subject to Board approval.
What happens if I fail the exam?
Retake policies and waiting periods are set by the exam vendor in coordination with MSBOC. Contact MSBOC for the current testing vendor and instructions to schedule another attempt.
Do I need insurance?
Yes. Commercial licensees must hold general liability insurance of at least $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate; residential licensees must maintain general liability insurance (MSBOC’s FAQ does not publish a specific minimum limit for residential licenses). Workers’ compensation is required when employing five or more workers.
How do I renew my license?
Licenses renew annually. Commercial renewal is $400; residential renewal is $100. Keep general liability and, if applicable, workers’ compensation coverage active, and follow MSBOC instructions on documentation and deadlines.
Do local permits still apply if I have a state license?
Yes. A state contractor license does not replace local building permits, inspections, or plan reviews. Always verify project-specific permit requirements with the city or county where the work will be performed.
Where can I find practice tests for Mississippi exams?
We offer comprehensive PDF practice tests for Mississippi contractor license exams. Each guide typically includes 1,500–2,500 code-relevant questions with complete answer keys and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline at your own pace with no time or use limits. Browse Mississippi contractor practice tests.
Mississippi · Practice tests
Mississippi contractor license practice tests
The Mississippi practice tests we publish today: comprehensive PDF guides, typically 1,500 to 2,500 questions each, with full answer keys and reference locators to the exact code sections. We add new tests regularly, so if your license isn’t listed here, contact us and we’ll build it.
- Business, Law, and Project Management (NASCLA) Reference Practice Test
- Installing Hardwood Flooring NOFMA - Reference Practice Test
- National Electrical Code (NEC) 2017 Practice Test
Related Official Resources
Official Sources for Further Details:
-
Mississippi State Board of Contractors – Frequently Asked Questions
https://www.msboc.us/general-info/frequently-asked-questions/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-07-26 -
Mississippi State Board of Contractors – About MSBOC
https://www.msboc.us/general-info/about-msboc/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-07-26 -
Mississippi State Board of Contractors – Apply For A License
https://www.msboc.us/contractors/licenses/
Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-07-26 -
Mississippi State Board of Contractors – Commercial Application (PDF)
https://www.msboc.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/COMMERCIAL_APPLICATION_fixed5.pdf
Official Board Site | Publication: 2026-04 | Accessed: 2026-07-26 -
Mississippi State Board of Contractors – Annual Report 2025
https://www.msboc.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/2025-Annual-Report.pdf
Official Board Site | Publication: 2025-12 | Accessed: 2026-07-26 -
Mississippi State Board of Contractors – Strategic Plan FY22–FY26
https://www.lbo.ms.gov/misc/strategic/FY22/834-00-plan.pdf
State Planning Document | Publication: 2022 | Accessed: 2026-07-26 -
Mississippi State Board of Contractors – Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/statecontractorsbd/
Official Board (Social Media) | Accessed: 2026-07-26
Important Disclaimer
Information Currency: This guide reflects licensing information as available in 2026. Licensing requirements are subject to change without notice. Always verify current requirements with official sources.
Official Source: For current information, contact Mississippi State Board of Contractors:
- Website: https://www.msboc.us
- Phone: 601-354-6161; 800-880-6161
No Legal Advice: This guide provides general information only. Consult with the licensing board or a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.
Permits: A state license does not replace local permitting and inspections. Always check permit requirements with the city or county where work will be performed.