Who must obtain a Ticket Resellers license?
Anyone who engages in the business of reselling any ticket or tickets of admission or other evidence of right of entry to any theatrical exhibition, public show or public amusement or exhibition must be licensed by the OPSI.
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What are the consequences of operating as a ticket reseller without a license?
An unlicensed ticket reseller may be fined up to $500 for violation of the statute. After the third offense, the unlicensed ticket reseller may again be fined, and may also be imprisoned up to one year.
How do I obtain a Ticket Resellers license?
1. First, please read through and complete the application. You must submit the following with your application:
a. A completed Ticket Resellers Application form. This is a one page form requiring general information about you and your business.
b. One legible copy of a government issued picture identification bearing a signature.
c. One copy of your business certificate and proof of zoning approval. These are papers that you should already have in your records. The certificate and proof were issued to you by your city or town when you initiated your business. You need only make a copy of these papers to send with your application.
d. Two (2) affidavits or recommendations from two (2) reputable Massachusetts citizens.
2. Complete and sign a "CORI Request Form." This form authorizes the OPSI to request a copy of your criminal record from the Department of Criminal Justice Information Services (DCJIS). You may obtain a form by requesting one from the OPSI.
3. Include a check or money order for the $250.00 licensing fee. The fee is non-refundable.
Where do I send the completed application?
Send the completed application to:
Division of Occupational Licensure
Office of Public Safety and Inspections - Ticket Resellers
1000 Washington Street, Suite 710
Boston, MA 02118
May I fax my application to be a ticket reseller?
No. We require original documents unless specifically provided otherwise.
May I drop off applications or other paperwork in person?
Yes. However, materials that are submitted in person are not processed the same day. They are not processed any faster than materials submitted by mail. Therefore, you are advised to submit applications and other paperwork by mail.
When will I hear back regarding my license?
Generally, we will get back to you within two to four weeks of receiving a complete application packet. You will be notified if any part is incomplete.
If my application is incomplete, may I just submit the missing or incorrect parts, or do I have to complete a new application?
You may submit the missing information or resubmit the corrected forms. You do not need to complete a new application.
Will you accept credit card payment or cash for the fee?
No. We only accept checks or money orders.
Is the CORI request form necessary?
Yes. All applicants for ticket reseller licenses must consent to a criminal background check as a condition of licensure.
Why must I include two affidavits from Massachusetts citizens?
The affidavits of two reputable citizens are among these requirements to obtain a license. The affidavits should attest to your good moral character.
Who can provide the recommendations/ affidavits of character for my application?
The two recommenders must be 1) citizens of the Commonwealth, and 2) reputable.
Where do I obtain the tickets for resale?
Even as a licensed ticket reseller, you must still purchase your tickets directly from exhibition venue, from a licensed ticket seller, or from another licensed ticket reseller. You are not entitled to a separate process by virtue of holding a Ticket Resellers license.
Are there limitations on how much I can charge for the tickets I am reselling?
Yes. You may charge a service fee, which may include but is not limited to, charges for messengers, postage, and long distance telephone calls, extensions of credit and costs attributable to resale. You may also charge for the cost of the ticket. By statute, it is illegal to increase the price of the ticket by more than two dollars ($2) above the face value of the ticket. The Commissioner may revoke the license and/or fine a ticket reseller found to be in violation of the statute.
Are there restrictions on where I can operate?
There are currently no restrictions on where ticket resellers can operate.
Do I need to notify anyone that I am becoming a licensed ticket reseller?
There are currently no notice requirements for ticket resellers.
If I am denied a license, can I appeal the decision?
Yes. You may file an appeal in Superior Court. G.L. c. 30A, §14.
When do I need to renew my license?
All licenses to operate as a ticket reseller expire on December 31st of the year in which the license was issued. You must renew your license once every year.
Do I need to complete the application process again to renew my license?
No. You do not have to complete the entire renewal process again. However, you must notify the OPSI of your desire to renew your license, and submit the fee set for that year. The fee is non-refundable.
How do I notify the OPSI that I wish to renew my Ticket Resellers license?
You should receive a renewal application in the mail approximately 1 month before your license is due to expire. If you do not get a renewal application in the mail, it is your responsibility to contact the OPSI and request that a renewal application be sent to you by mail, fax, or e-mail.
What happens if I do not complete the renewal process in time?
Your license will expire and you must reapply for a new license if it is your intent to continue operating as a ticket reseller in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Contact for Ticket Resellers FAQs
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Open Mon. - Fri., 8:45 am - 5:00 pm