How to Get a Contractor's License In Mississippi
Looking to become a licensed general contractor in Mississippi? This guide breaks down the process to help you navigate the state’s licensing requirements with confidence. From submitting your application to understanding exam options like the NASCLA, you’ll get a clear overview of what it takes to earn your Mississippi contractor’s license for both residential and commercial work.
What Are The Benefits of Having a General Contractor's License in Mississippi
Earning your general contractor’s license in Mississippi is a major step forward in your construction career. It shows you’re a trusted professional, strengthens your reputation with clients, and opens the door to larger jobs and more profitable opportunities across the state.
Your Contractor's License
NASCLA Exam
The NASCLA exam is a nationally recognized licensing exam for contractors, known for its acceptance in 17 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands. In Louisiana, passing the NASCLA exam can help you qualify for your general contractor license and makes it easier to work across multiple states without retaking the test.
Mississippi does accept the NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building as the qualifying trade exam for a commercial general contractor’s license.
The Process
Mississippi General Contractor Application Requirements
Being well-prepared for both the application and exam process is key to obtaining your general contractor’s license in Mississippi. For complete instructions and requirements, be sure to visit the Mississippi State Board of Contractors. Some of the key steps include:
1. Determine If You Need A License
- Commercial projects over $50,000 and residential projects over $50,000 require a state license
2. Meet The Financial Requirements
Submit CPA Reviewed Financial Statement
- You must submit a reviewed or audited financial statement, prepared by a licensed certified public accountant within the past 12 months.
- Major classifications (such as Building Construction, Highway/Bridge, Heavy Construction, Electrical, Mechanical, Public Works): Net worth of at least $50,000
3. Obtain Proper Insurance
Commercial License Applicants Should Carry:
- $300,000 per occurrence minimum
- $600,000 aggregate minimum
Workers' Compensation Insurance
- Required if you have 5 or more employees
4. Pass The Required Exams
- Applicants must pass the required exams before obtaining their general contractor's license. Each applicant must pass the Mississippi Business and Law exam as well as the trade exam. Candidates have the option to take the Mississippi Building Construction or NASCLA Exam as their trade exam.
Option 1:
- Mississippi Business & Law Exam—open book, required for all applicants
- Mississippi Building Construction Exam
Option 2:
- Mississippi Business & Law Exam—open book, required for all applicants
- NASCLA Exam
Why We Suggest The NASCLA Exam
- The NASCLA exam has reciprocity in over 16 states and continues to gain popularity. If your business grows to another NASCLA state or a new opportunity arises, you will not have to retake a trades exam.
5. Provide Reference Letters
- Provide one (1) reference letter from your bank and two (2) reference letters from anyone you have worked with/for on construction related projects.
6. Show Experience Requirements
- The applicant must show experience in the classification(s) being applied for. You must show at least three (3) jobs completed in the requested classification.
7. Mississippi Contractor License Application Submission
- Pay the application fee and submit your application to the Board!
1
Pass The Exams
Study for and pass the trade exam and Business and Law Exam.
2
Submit Your Application
Submit your Mississippi general contractor license application and receive approval from the State Board of Contractors.
3
Obtain Your Mississippi Contractor's License!
Obtain your Mississippi contractor’s license and renew your license as needed.
Our NASCLA Prep Plans
NASCLA Practice Exam
For students already well prepared for the NASCLA
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Two attempts on a timed NASCLA practice exam
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Answer key
NASCLA Full Course
For students looking for the best all around NASCLA prep
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Tutorial Videos
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Study guides and test taking tips
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Practice quizzes for each book
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Time practice exams
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1,200+ question bank
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Unlimited quiz and exam attempts
NASCLA Book Tabs
Yes, pre-printed tabbing is allowed and encouraged!
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Pre-printed book tabs for each chapter and each book
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Additional 'Index' printed tabs
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Additional blank tabs
NASCLA Book Set
You Asked, We Delivered – The Complete NASCLA Book Set is Now Available!
At PassTheNASCLAExam.com, we’re excited to offer the full NASCLA Book Set in one convenient bundle. Now, you can make a single purchase and get all the essential NASCLA exam prep materials without the hassle of buying each book separately.
Save time and money while ensuring you have everything you need to pass the NASCLA exam with confidence.
Mississippi Contractor License FAQ
Got questions about getting your contractor’s license in Mississippi?
Check out our FAQs to find quick answers. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, reach out to our team—we’re here to help you through the entire process!
You are required to have a contractor’s license if you are performing new construction of $50,000 or more. You are also required to have a license if you perform remodel or roof construction over $10,000.
The NASCLA exam will allow you to achieve a Building Construction license. This allows the contractor to build, modify, an bid on commercial or residential construction.
The Mississippi contractor license application requires proof of general liability insurance. The general liability insurance must show a minimum coverage of $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate.
In the case that your contractor business in Mississippi has five or more employees, you must have workers compensation insurance.
The contractor license application requires 3 letters of reference. 1 of the 3 letters must be from the bank or financial institution. 2 of the 3 letters of reference can be from anyone you have worked with or for on construction related projects.
The Mississippi contractor license application notes to list at least 3 projects completed in the requested classification.
License applicants must have a net worth of $50,000 to obtain a Building Construction license in Mississippi.
The contractor application fee is $400. There is an additional $100 for specialty licenses you may be applying for.
The NASCLA exam fee is $130. There is also a $35 application fee.
The Mississippi Business and Law exam must be taken after the NASCLA exam to obtain your contractor license. First you must pass the NASCLA exam as your trades exam. Then you will need to pass the Business and Law exam. This exam is easier than the NASCLA as it is a single book, open book exam. You may also tab and highlight in the book. This exam is designed to get you familiar with the rules and regulations in Mississippi.
The Mississippi Business and Law exam has a $120 sign up fee.
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Need more information on how to get your contractor’s license in Mississippi? Our comprehensive guide walks you through each step of the process to help you get licensed with confidence.
