How to Get a CSL in Massachusetts
Published on August 27, 2024 by Nate Bortz
The Steps and Process for Getting a MA CSL
In the state of Massachusetts, a general contractor is known as a construction supervisor. The Board of Building Regulations and Standards (BBRS) regulates licenses.
These types of contractors must be present during the construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, removal or demolition of the following building types:
- Buildings of any use containing less than 35,000 cubic feet
- One- and two-family dwellings with any additional accessory
- Agricultural use buildings or structures
- Walls less than 10 feet from the base of the footing to the top of the wall
NOTE: Buildings over 35,000 cubic feet require the control of an engineer or architect.
What type of license do I need?
BBRS offers different license types for various construction jobs. Here, we’ll focus on the two most popular types. Visit this page if you’re interested in specialty CSLs like masonry, roof covering or demolition. Specialty licenses require completing an additional exam.
Unrestricted
Getting an Unrestricted CSL allows you to supervise work done on any of the building types listed above.
CSL One- and Two-Family Dwellings (Restricted)
This license limits you to direct supervision of work done on one- and two-family dwellings or accessory buildings, regardless of size.
NOTE: Your local municipality may have different license requirements. Remember to check with local municipalities directly for local contractor licensing requirements in addition to the state requirements.
Are there any requirements exemptions?
The State Building Code provides exemptions for the following construction-related activities:
- Construction of swimming pools
- Erection of signs or tents
- Any building which is subject to construction control
Some local municipalities still require the above types of contractors to be licensed. Please check with your local building department for verification.
Do I need work experience to obtain this license?
Yes. Candidates need to provide proof of three years of experience in building construction or design to be eligible for the licensing exam. Work experience does not have to be continuous. Over the past 10 years, you must have a total of 36 months of full-time (40 hours per week) experience.
In some cases, education can replace work experience.
The following exceptions are equivalent to one year of work experience:
- Graduating from a three- or four-year vocational high school or general vocational school in building construction.
- Receiving a bachelor, master or PhD degree from an accredited college or university.
Completing a bachelor, master or PhD program from an accredited college or university in architecture or science, engineering, or technology in a related field satisfies two years of work experience.
NOTE:
- Union affiliation alone is not accepted as work experience.
- Active military service relevant to construction may be considered work experience
How do I verify my work experience?
You can verify your work experience in one of two ways:
- Tax forms: W-2, IRS Schedule C, or 1099 forms are accepted. Submit forms for the equivalent of three years of full-time experience. If using your education for experience, submit a copy of your diploma and/or degree.
- Letter of Attestation: Instead of tax records, you can submit a letter of attestation from an individual (engineer, architect, employer, military supervisor, licensed contractor, or other) stating that you have at least three years of construction and/or design experience.
How do I get a CSL?
- Determine which type of license you need.
- Verify your three years of full-time work experience in building construction or design.
- Submit the candidate exam registration form and exam fee to Prometric, the exam provider.
- Wait 10 days and then schedule your exam.
- Study for your exam to prepare to pass (an exam prep course can help with this).
- Mail the score report from your exam and applicable license fees to BBRS.
How do I schedule my exam?
You can schedule your exam online or by phone. Visit Prometric’s dedicated MA page and click Schedule to get started.
Or call 800.813.6671 between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. Eastern, Monday through Friday. Have your Visa or MasterCard information available for the exam fee. At the end of the call, you will get an appointment confirmation number.
What is the exam based on?
All exam material is based on the Commonwealth’s Building Code (780 CMR). Specialty license exams include additional reference materials. See them all here.
Are reference materials allowed during the exam?
Yes, all Massachusetts CSL exams are open book. However, you will need to bring your own reference materials.
The exam is open book, but you still need to understand the codes and where to find the information. Why not let us do the nitty-gritty work for you?
Our exam prep course guides you through the material found on the exam and makes sure you solidify your code knowledge. Gain the confidence you need to pass the exam on your first try. We also have book packages so you can get everything you need in one place — get started here.
What will my exam be like?
The Unrestricted exam contains 75 open-book questions with a three-hour time limit.
The Restricted exam includes 60 open-book questions and has a three-hour time limit.
Both exams ask questions on topics such as energy efficiency, sitework and foundations, concrete and masonry moisture intrusion/protection, structural framing, and more.
If you get 70% or more of the questions correct, your score report will say Pass. Numerical scores are not shown to prevent hiring discrimination.
Can I retake the exam if I fail?
Yes. In the unlikely event that your score report says Fail, you may retake the exam twice in a 90-day period. Once that period expires, you can take the exam another two times, if needed, during the next 90-day period.
How long will it take to get my license?
Once you pass the exam, your score report will explain how to apply for and obtain your license.
License applications are processed about 30 days after receipt. You must submit the application and licensure fee to the Department of Public Safety (DPS) within one year of passing your exam.
Ready to start your licensing journey? Let us do the hard work for you with our comprehensive exam prep courses. Click here to get started!