Mississippi contractor license bond
No statewide bondMississippi has no state contractor license bond.
The Mississippi State Board of Contractors requires a commercial Certificate of Responsibility for work of $50,000 or more, and a residential builder license when a home project exceeds $50,000. The Board's rules require a reviewed financial statement showing net worth of $50,000 (major classifications) or $20,000 (others) plus general liability insurance; they don't require a surety bond to be licensed. Bonds appear only at the local permit or specific project level. [Source: MSBOC ↗]
Good to know
Licensure turns on net worth and insurance, not a state bond; the '$100,000 contractor bond' often cited online is not a Board requirement.
If your city requires a bond, estimate the cost
You pay a percentage of the bond amount each year, based on credit.
About 1.5–3.0% of a $25,000 bond.
Estimate only. Your real rate is set by the surety after a quick credit check, and the premium is typically nonrefundable once the bond is issued.
How to get licensed in Mississippi
- 1Mississippi has no statewide contractor license, so start with the building department in the city or county where you'll work and ask what they require.
- 2Meet that jurisdiction's local license, bond, and insurance rules — amounts vary by city, so confirm them directly.
- 3If you do electrical, plumbing, or HVAC work, get the matching state trade license, which is issued separately.
- 4Keep your local registration and any trade licenses current as you renew.
Mississippi contractor bond FAQ
Does Mississippi require a contractor license bond?
No. Mississippi licenses contractors on net worth and insurance, not a statewide surety bond, for work over $50,000.
How much does a contractor license bond cost in Mississippi?
You don't pay the full bond amount. You pay an annual premium that's a small percentage of it, usually around 1–3% with good credit and more while your credit is still building. Use the calculator above to estimate the premium for your bond amount.
Who regulates contractor licensing in Mississippi?
Mississippi has no single statewide contractor licensing agency — general contractors are licensed by city and county building departments. Licensure turns on net worth and insurance, not a state bond; the '$100,000 contractor bond' often cited online is not a Board requirement.
What does a contractor license bond protect?
A contractor license bond protects your customers and the licensing authority, not you. It guarantees you'll follow the state's contractor laws; if you break them and someone is owed money, they can file a claim against the bond, and you must repay the surety.
Is the bond premium refundable?
Generally no. Once the bond is issued, the premium is earned by the surety and is typically nonrefundable, even if you never have a claim. Most bonds run one to two years, and you renew to keep your license active.
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Bond requirements and amounts are set by MSBOC and can change. Confirm the current figure with the authority before you buy. This page is general information, not legal advice.