Massachusetts Handyman License Requirements (Complete Guide)

If you want to work as a handyman in Massachusetts, you need to understand the state’s licensing rules. While Massachusetts doesn’t issue a general handyman license, you may need to register as a home improvement contractor (HIC) or get a construction supervisor license (CSL), depending on the work you take on. 

This guide breaks down license types, costs, requirements, and application steps so you can start your handyman business legally.

Massachusetts handyman license requirements at a glance

Before you take handyman jobs in Massachusetts, understand what the state requires.

Do you need a handyman license in Massachusetts?

You don’t need a license in Massachusetts to do small, one-off handyman tasks like furniture assembly or yard cleanup. But once you start contracting for work on a one- to four-unit, owner-occupied residence, you have to register as an HIC. Also be aware that jobs over $1,000 require written contracts.

HIC registration covers common jobs like: 

• Bathroom or kitchen remodeling
• Cabinet installation
• Exterior painting 
• Simple carpentry work

If your work involves structural changes—like moving load-bearing walls, building a deck, replacing a roof, or installing an addition—you’ll need your CSL, which is more involved than HIC registration.

Handyman work that may require additional licenses

Some trades are highly regulated for safety reasons. If you want to perform these types of work, you’ll need a special license, exam, or apprenticeship:

• Construction: Swimming pool, exterior walls, exterior stairs, plastering, and demolition
• Electrical: Wiring, installing outlets, panels, or lighting fixtures
• HVAC: Central air and heating systems
• Plumbing: Involving water or gas lines
• Structural carpentry: Window and door installation, roofing, and shed construction 
• Structural framing: Load-bearing walls, major structural changes, or new additions

What can a handyman do without a license in Massachusetts?

Unlicensed handymen can do smaller, nonstructural tasks that don’t require specialty credentials or advertising as a contractor, such as:

• Basic plumbing repairs (like fixing a leaky faucet)
• Hanging pictures or shelves
• Interior painting and touch-ups
• Patio work
• Routine landscaping

Consequences of working without registration in Massachusetts

Doing home improvement contracting work without proper registration or licensing is risky. Aside from hurting your reputation, you could face serious consequences that affect your finances and ability to continue working in the state.

According to Massachusetts law, anyone who operates without a valid certificate of registration can be fined up to $5,000, jailed for up to two years, or both. You also lose legal protections: unregistered contractors can’t enforce contracts or place mechanics’ liens.

Massachusetts licensing and registration requirements

Massachusetts makes registering as an HIC straightforward. No formal education or experience is required. You’ll only need to register your business, pay the required fee, and make a contribution to the Guaranty Fund.

Getting a CSL requires a few more steps. You must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have at least three years of documented construction experience
• Pass the CSL exam with a 70% or above

Massachusetts checks for outstanding tax liabilities or past violations when you apply for a license, so clear up any unresolved complaints before starting the application process.

Recommended skills for a handyman in Massachusetts

Though you don’t need formal training to be a registered HIC, you’ll want to build a solid skillset to outperform competitors and keep clients happy. Handymen generally benefit from these skills:

• Basic carpentry (shelving, trim, light framing)
• Drywall patching and painting
• Effective communication, estimates, time management, and customer service
• Minor fixture replacements with no electrical rewiring
• Small flooring or tile repairs
• Weatherproofing (caulking, sealing windows, gutter cleaning)

Contractor license cost in Massachusetts

The cost to register as a handyman is relatively low in Massachusetts. First, you need to pay a $150 nonrefundable HIC registration fee. You’ll also need to make a Guaranty Fund contribution. This fee protects homeowners should a contractor fail to complete a project.

Guaranty Fund contributions vary depending on your company’s size:

• 0–3 employees: $100
• 4–10 employees: $200
• 11–30 employees: $300
• Over 30 employees: $500

If you decide to apply for a CSL, add the following fees:

• CSL application fee: $150
• Exam fee: $100

Once active, each is valid for two years.

How to apply for a contractor license in Massachusetts

Registering as an HIC involves completing an application form through the Contractor Registration Portal or by mail, providing all necessary documentation, and mailing the requirements to the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Registration (OCABR) along with your $150 check or money order.

For structural projects or anything more than a one- to four-unit owner-occupied residential property, you’ll need a CSL. Before starting the application process, select the appropriate CSL type:

• Unrestricted CSL: This lets you supervise any type of one- and two-family residential construction less than 35,000 cubic feet.
• Restricted CSL: This is limited to certain types of small-scale projects under a specific size.
• Specialty CSL: This covers specific trades within construction (like masonry, roofing, insulation, and demolition).

Then, follow these steps to get a license:

• Complete your CSL application and mail it to Prometric
• Schedule your CSL exam
• Use the state-provided content outline to study for the exam
• Take the exam and pass with a 70% or higher score
• Provide proof of liability insurance

If you pass the exam, you’ll receive your license card by mail within 30 days. This card tells clients, inspectors, and regulators that you’re a licensed professional who meets Massachusetts standards.

Transferring your contractor license to or from Massachusetts

Massachusetts doesn’t honor handyman or contractor licenses issued in other states. That means if you’re moving your business to Massachusetts, you’ll need to start fresh by registering for an HIC or applying for a CSL.

While you can’t transfer an out-of-state license, your past work history and education do count toward eligibility. This is especially important when applying for a CSL, which requires a minimum of three years of construction experience in the field before you can sit for the exam.

How to renew your contractor license in Massachusetts

The HIC registration expires after two years, and the renewal costs $100. The state offers a 30-day grace period, after which your registration is no longer eligible for renewal. When this happens, you’ll have to register again. Visit the MA Contractor Hub to renew your HIC registration.

The CSL is also valid for two years, and renewals cost $100. To renew your license, you must complete a continuing education (CE) course through a state-approved provider, such as RocketCert or 24/7 Massachusetts Contractors Academy.

Here’s a breakdown of how many hours of continuing education you must complete to renew your CSL:

• Unrestricted CSL: 12 hours of CE
• Restricted CSL: 10 hours of CE
• Specialty CSL: 6 hours of CE

You can renew your license online, by mail, or in person at the following address:

Division of Occupational Licensure (DOL)

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Office of Public Safety and Inspections

One Federal Street, Suite 600

Boston, MA 02110-2012

CSL renewal processing can take up to five weeks.

What happens if your license expires?

Letting your CSL expire puts you out of work in Massachusetts. You lose the right to advertise, take on certain jobs, or pull permits. Here’s what usually happens:

• Late fee: The state gives you a one-year grace period to renew your license. After it lapses, you have to pay a late fee of $100.
• Work suspension: Until your renewal goes through, you can’t legally do any work that requires a license. Even during the grace period, you must wait for renewal approval before resuming licensed work.
• Fresh application: If a license has expired for more than two years, you won’t be allowed to renew. You have to start fresh—that means retaking the CSL exam and filing as a new applicant.

Pro tip: Set a calendar reminder at least 90 days before your license is due for renewal. This gives you enough time to finish your CE hours and prepare the paperwork before the deadline.

Requirements to start a handyman business in Massachusetts

If you’re employed by a handyman or construction company, you don’t need a license. Your employer covers all the legal aspects of running a business, including licensing and insurance. But if you own the business, you’ll need to register with the Massachusetts Secretary of State. 

Depending on where in Massachusetts you do business, you may need a general business license or permit to operate legally. Check with your town clerk or city hall to see which laws apply to you.

Insurance and bonding needs

Even if you’re just doing small handyman jobs, insurance protects your business from lawsuits and unexpected liabilities. Plus, it helps clients trust you as a professional service provider.

Here’s what you should know about handyman insurance and bonding requirements in Massachusetts: 

• General liability insurance: Strongly recommended for all handymen and required if you hold a CSL. Most contractors carry $300,000 to $500,000 in coverage.
• Bonds: Massachusetts doesn’t require bonds for most handyman work. However, some larger municipal or commercial projects may need you to be bonded.
• Workers’ compensation: Required if you have employees, no matter how small the team.
• Guaranty Fund contribution: All HIC registrants pay into this fund, which protects homeowners from losses incurred on the job.

Tips for growing your handyman business in Massachusetts

The most successful handyman businesses are usually those that build trust with clients and are more visible in the community. Follow these tips to grow your handyman business:

• Market locally: Set up a Google Business Profile, drop your business details in local Facebook groups, and get listed in town directories. 
• Price like a pro: Start by understanding what people in your area can realistically pay, then stack that against expenses and the margin you need to stay profitable. How you price handyman jobs determines whether or not you’ll make a profit. If you need help setting the right price, try our free handyman calculator.
• Show off your trust signals: Don’t hide your license and insurance—put them front and center. Homeowners want to know they are dealing with a legit contractor that shows accountability if something goes wrong.
• Collect honest feedback: A few glowing five-star reviews will do more for your reputation than a slick ad or sales pitch. Most satisfied clients are happy to leave a review when asked. 
• Be transparent: Nothing destroys trust faster than hidden costs or missed deadlines. Be clear about the important details like job scope, cost, and due date before starting a project. 

Using advanced handyman software like Housecall Pro to automate your scheduling, invoicing, and payment processing means you can spend less time behind the desk and more time working. 

Ready to see how Housecall Pro streamlines operations for a handyman business? Start a 14-day free trial and save hours every day.

FAQ

What’s the difference between an HIC and a CSL?

A home improvement contractor (HIC) registration lets you fulfill minor home improvement contracts that require no specialty certifications. A construction supervisor license (CSL) allows you to supervise large construction projects that involve structural changes. Most full-time contractors carry both.

Can I use my license from another state in Massachusetts?

No. Massachusetts does not recognize contractor licenses from other states. You must apply from scratch to legally operate in Massachusetts.

Do I need insurance as a handyman?

Liability insurance isn’t required for HIC registration, but it’s highly recommended and can save you from legal trouble. If you apply for a CSL, you must have liability insurance. You’ll also need workers’ compensation insurance if you plan to hire employees.