How to get a contractor license in Maryland

Step by step

Experience: 2 years. 2 years of trade experience or related education. Owner, manager or supervisor business experience can replace 1 year (the Commission decides). (source: MHIC license requirements (opens in a new tab), source: COMAR 09.08.01.23 (opens in a new tab))

1. Pass the exam Pass the PSI exam before applying. (source: MHIC license requirements (opens in a new tab))
2. Show your experience 2 years of trade experience or related education. (source: MHIC license requirements (opens in a new tab), source: COMAR 09.08.01.23 (opens in a new tab))
3. Prove financial solvency Send proof of financial solvency, or a surety bond or indemnitor. (source: MHIC license requirements (opens in a new tab))
4. Register your business Corporations send articles and an SDAT Certificate of Good Standing. Trade names are checked with MHIC and registered with SDAT. (source: MHIC license requirements (opens in a new tab))
5. Get insurance Get liability insurance of at least $500,000. (source: Maryland Home Improvement Commission (opens in a new tab))
6. Apply and pay Pay $281.25 application, $22.50 processing and $100 Guaranty Fund. (source: MHIC fees (opens in a new tab))

The exam

An exam is required. Exams are run by PSI. (source: MHIC license requirements (opens in a new tab))

• Pass the PSI exam before you apply. (source: MHIC license requirements (opens in a new tab))

Costs and fees

Fees are set by the board and can change. Check the official fee page before you pay.

Bonds and insurance

• General liability: At least $500,000 for MHIC contractors, from 1 June 2024 (Business Regulation 8-302.1).

The MHIC requirements page still says $50,000. That page is out of date. (source: Maryland Home Improvement Commission (opens in a new tab))