S-License Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for S-License.

Table of Contents

What is a security system?

"Security system" means wires, conduits, apparatus, devices, fixtures, or other appliances installed and interconnected electrically or electronically to permit access control, proprietary signaling, surveillance and the detection of burglary, intrusion, holdup, or other conditions requiring response or the transmission of signals or audible alarms. M.G.L. c. 147, §57.

Who must hold an S-license?

Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 147, §57, any person, firm or corporation who engages in, advertises, or holds himself or itself out as being engaged in the business of installing, repairing, or offering maintenance for security systems, must be licensed by the Department.

Do I need any other licenses to be eligible to receive an S-license?

Yes. You must have a valid electricians' license, of any class. M.G.L. c. 147, §58.

What are the consequences of installing security systems without an S-license?

Anyone who violates the statute may be issued a fine between $200 and $1,000, imprisoned for up to one year, or both. M.G.L. c. 147, §57.

How do I obtain an S-license?

See application instructions on this page.

May I have the S-License issued in the name of my company, instead of my name?

Yes. Please note that you would like the license issued in the name of your company on the S-License application.

Can I apply for an S-License online?

Yes, here is a Link to our online portal.

If applying by mail, where should I send my completed application?

Send the completed application to:

Division of Occupational Licensure
Office of Public Safety and Inspections
1000 Washington Street, Suite 710 
Boston, MA 02118

Will the Department accept credit card payment or cash for a mail-in application fee?

No. The Department can only accept checks or money orders by mail. 

May I fax my application for an S-License to the Department?

No. The Department requires original documents unless specifically provided otherwise.

May I drop off applications or other paperwork in person?

Yes. However, materials that are submitted in person may not be processed the same day. Therefore, you are advised to submit applications at your own convenience.

What happens if the Department has sent back my application as incomplete and I've paid the $250 application fee?

All fees are non-refundable. However, if your application is incomplete, the Department will notify you of what is missing, and you will have an opportunity to complete your application without an additional fee.

Is the CORI request form necessary?

Yes. All applicants for a Security Systems Contractor license must consent to a criminal background check as a condition of licensure.

How will the Department consider my CORI report?

There are three major categories of licensure qualification based on the information found in the CORI report: no record, discretionary disqualification, and presumptive disqualification. No record indicates that the applicant has no record of offenses, and is suitable for licensure as far as the CORI requirement. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 147, §59, persons convicted of a felony, wiretapping or secretly overhearing jury deliberations are presumptively disqualified. Individuals denied a license under these circumstances may appeal to the Commissioner for reconsideration.

If I have been convicted of a felony may I still obtain a Security Systems Contractor license?

Generally, no. Under M.G.L. c. 147, §59, if you have been convicted of a felony or a crime of moral turpitude, you may not receive an S-License unless a hearing is held and the Commissioner at his discretion determines that a license is appropriate.

When will I hear back from the Department regarding my license?

Generally, the Department will get back to you within two to four weeks of receiving a complete application packet.

If I am denied a license, may I appeal the decision?

Yes. You may file an appeal in Superior Court. M.G.L. c. 30A, §14.

When must I renew my S-license?

You must renew your license once every two (2) years. M.G.L. c. 147, §59.

What must I do to renew my S-license?

You should renew within 30 days from your expiration date following the same procedures as the new application.

If I am working for an S-License holder, but am not an S-License holder myself, must I be licensed?

You must have a Certificate of Clearance in accordance with M.G.L. c. 147, §60. Please note that a Certificate of Clearance is different from a Security Systems Contractor license.

What is a Certificate of Clearance, and how is it different from an S-license?

A Certificate of Clearance certifies that an employee of an S-license holder has undergone a CORI inquiry, and has been approved to work for an individual or company licensed to install security systems.. The license is different in that it permits a contractor or corporation to hold himself or itself out as being engaged in the business of installing, repairing, or offering maintenance for security systems. M.G.L. c. 147, §57.

As an S-license holder, how do I obtain a Certificate of Clearance to employ individuals at my business?

Send a completed Attestation for Certificate of Clearance, a non-refundable check made out to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for $50.00, a legible copy of a government issued identification bearing the applicants photograph and signature, and a completed CORI Acknowledgement Form. The packet should be mailed to:

       Division of Occupational Licensure
       Office of Public Safety and Inspections
       1000 Washington Street, Suite 710 
       Boston, MA 02118

If I already have a Certificate, but am going to work for another S-License holder, am I required to obtain a new Certificate?

Yes. Every time you change employment you must re-submit a new Application for a Certificate of Clearance with the company.

If I am denied a Certificate, may I appeal the decision?

Yes. Please send your request for appeal to the following address:

Division of Occupational Licensure
Office of Public Safety and Inspections
1000 Washington Street, Suite 710 
Boston, MA 02118

Can my Certificate of Clearance be revoked?

Your certificate is automatically revoked if you change employment or cease to be employed by a Security Systems Contractor. All certificates are valid for two years from the date of issuance and must be renewed by the S-Licensee on behalf of the licensee's employees.

When must I renew my Certificate of Clearance?

You should renew within 30 days from your expiration date following the same procedures as the new application.

If I’m having a security system installed, what information should I seek from the entity performing the installation?

Ask the individual or company for their S-License number prior to making arrangements to have the system installed. To check the validity of the license, please visit the Check a License page. Before you allow installers to begin work in your home or business, ask to see the certificate of clearance of anyone performing the installation. All employees that work for an S-Licensee are required to have certificates of clearance issued by the DPS, pursuant to M.G.L. c. 147, §60.

Contact   for S-License Frequently Asked Questions

Online

If looking for a status update on a license renewal, please put your full OPSI license number, including prefix, in the subject line. Email Office of Public Safety and Inspections, Division of Occupational Licensure at OPSI-info@mass.gov

Address

Main Office
1000 Washington St, Suite 710, Boston, MA 02118

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