Maryland Contractor & Trade License Requirements
Maryland requires statewide licensing across all major trades. The Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) licenses all contractors performing residential improvement work. Electricians are licensed by the State Board of Master Electricians, plumbers by the State Board of Plumbing, and HVAC contractors by the Board of HVACR Contractors. Roofing contractors performing residential work must hold an MHIC license. All boards operate under the Maryland Department of Labor, Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.
General Contractor
RequiredElectrician
RequiredPlumber
RequiredHVAC Technician
RequiredRoofing Contractor
RequiredMaryland Licensing Overview
Maryland requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 contractor trades. The licensed trades — general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor — are regulated by 4 separate agencies: Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC), Maryland State Board of Master Electricians (SBME), Maryland State Board of Plumbing (SBP), Maryland Board of Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors (HVACR Board). Across all licensed trades, initial costs range from $153 to $344, including application fees, exams, and license issuance.
Maryland Contractor License Cost Summary
| Trade | Application | Exam | License | Bond | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | $281 | $63 | — | — | $344 |
| Electrician | $25 | $65 | $190 | — | $280 |
| Plumber | $88 | $65 | — | — | $153 |
| HVAC Technician | $75 | $150 | — | — | $225 |
| Roofing Contractor | $281 | $63 | — | — | $344 |
Estimated totals include application, exam, license, and fingerprinting fees. Bond amounts are separate and typically paid as an annual premium.
Key Facts About Maryland Contractor Licensing
- As of June 1, 2024, MHIC requires $500,000 minimum general liability insurance. Must provide Certificate of Insurance (COI) with application and at each renewal. Workers comp required for all employers.
- MHIC license required for ANY residential home improvement work (repair, replacement, remodeling, alteration)
- Open-book exam — Maryland MHIC law reference materials allowed
- Subcontractors working for an MHIC-licensed contractor may be exempt from separate licensing
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Maryland require a contractor license?
Yes, Maryland requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 trades: general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor.
How much does a contractor license cost in Maryland?
Initial licensing costs range from $153 to $344 depending on the trade, including application, exam, and license fees.
Does Maryland have license reciprocity with other states?
Maryland does not currently have reciprocity agreements with other states. Contractors from other states must apply and meet the full requirements.
Do I need workers compensation insurance in Maryland?
As of June 1, 2024, MHIC requires $500,000 minimum general liability insurance. Must provide Certificate of Insurance (COI) with application and at each renewal. Workers comp required for all employers.
Official Maryland Licensing Resources
- Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) — for general contractor, roofing contractor
- Maryland State Board of Master Electricians (SBME) — for electrician
- Maryland State Board of Plumbing (SBP) — for plumber
- Maryland Board of Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors (HVACR Board) — for hvac technician