Are you a Mississippi general contractor looking to get your license for 2024? If so, then you've come to the right place. In this blog post, we'll go over all the Mississippi general contractor license requirements you need to be aware of in order to get your license and become a licensed Mississippi general contractor. We'll cover all the regulations, fees, and qualifications you need to meet in order to obtain your Mississippi general contractors license in 2024. Read on to learn more!

Do You Need A Contractors License in Mississippi?

Mississippi mandates that all contractors, whether engaged in commercial or residential work, including roofers, must secure a license

Who Issues A Mississippi General Contractor License?

The Mississippi State Board of Contractors is responsible for issuing general contractor licenses. The licensing process involves an application, examination, and other documents like reference letters and proof of employment.

How to Get a General Contractor License in Mississippi

In Mississippi, a residential contractor's license is a requirement for any residential construction project valued at over $50,000. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process:

1. Complete the Residential Application:

• Obtain the residential application from the Mississippi State Board of Contractors' forms page.
• Fill out the application thoroughly and ensure it is notarized.

2. Business Registration (For Corporations or LLCs): If your business is a corporation or LLC, it must be registered with the Mississippi Secretary of State.

3. Tax Identification Numbers: Provide either a Mississippi income tax ID or federal tax ID number.

4. General Liability Insurance: Furnish a certificate of general liability insurance indicating that the Mississippi State Board of Contractors should be notified in case of coverage termination.

5. Workers’ Compensation (if applicable): If your business employs five or more individuals, provide proof of workers’ compensation.

6. Reference Letters: Submit three reference letters:

• One from your bank.
• Two from individuals or entities you have worked with or for on construction projects.

7. Project Portfolio: Showcase three projects you have worked on related to the field in which you are applying.

8. Qualifying Party and Proof of Employment: Identify a qualifying party and provide evidence of their employment.

9. Examination: Successfully complete the required examination.

Tips For Passing The Exam

Preparing for and succeeding in the Mississippi general contractor license exam requires effective strategies and focused preparation. Here are key tips to help you achieve your goal:

1. Understand Exam Content: Begin by reviewing the exam outline provided by the Mississippi State Board of Contractors. This will clarify the exam topics, such as building codes, safety regulations, and contract law. Concentrate your studies on these areas for a solid foundation.

2. Develop a Study Plan: Create an organized study plan to maximize your preparation. Divide content into manageable sections and allocate dedicated study time for each topic. Maintain a consistent study schedule.

3. Use Study Materials: Leverage study materials like textbooks, online resources, and practice exams. These resources offer valuable information and acquaint you with the exam format. Practice exams can pinpoint areas requiring more attention.

How Much Does Licensing Cost?

The initial $50 fee includes one classification. Should you wish to apply for additional classifications, each one incurs an additional cost of $100 per classification.

Penalties for Unlicensed Contractors in Mississippi

Avoiding licensing requirements may offer short-term benefits but carries risks. Mississippi's MSBOC Statewide Investigative Team investigates unlicensed contractors. Penalties for unlicensed contractors, although unspecified, include monetary consequences. Homeowners contracting unlicensed professionals may also face penalties, up to 3% of the total contract amount.

Leveraging your license on Houzz

Now that you know the Mississippi general contractor license requirements, it’s time to start thinking about how you can promote your license to potential clients. Everyone who’s anyone knows the value of a blue checkmark on social media. That’s what the green Verified License Badge is for businesses on Houzz Pro. With one glance, this Badge helps you:

• Let homeowners know that your business is licensed by state industry experts.
• Stand out from the competition while homeowners consider who to hire
• Add credibility to your company name, providing peace of mind to future clients

Here are the steps you can take to add a verified license to your Houzz profile. If you haven’t created a free profile on Houzz, sign up today and get ready to make a bigger impact with your business’ online presence.