General Contractor License Requirements in Maryland
| Licensing Authority | Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) |
| License Type | MHIC Contractor License (Home Improvement) |
| Experience Required | No specific experience requirement for the MHIC license. Applicants must pass the MHIC exam and meet financial solvency requirements. The MHIC license covers all home improvement work on residential properties (1-4 units). |
| Exam Required | Yes — Maryland Home Improvement Exam |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | Not required |
| Processing Time | 4-6 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $281 |
| Exam Fee | $63 |
| Guaranty Fund assessment (initial) | $100 |
| Guaranty Fund assessment (renewal) | $175 |
| Est. Initial Total | $619 |
Renewal: $250 every 2 years
Exam Requirements
Maryland Home Improvement Exam
55 questions2.5 hours (150 minutes)Pass: 70% (39 correct answers)
Maryland home improvement lawConsumer protectionContract requirementsBusiness practices
Exam provider: PSI
Notes
- 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
- Guaranty Fund protects consumers — contractors contribute $100 initially, $175 at each renewal
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a general contractor license in Maryland?
Yes, Maryland requires a statewide general contractor license through the Maryland Home Improvement Commission.
How much does a general contractor license cost in Maryland?
The estimated initial cost is $344, including application, exam, and license fees.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: MHIC