MHIC Study Guide 2026

Everything you need to pass the MHIC exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.

📋 MHIC Exam Format at a Glance

80
Questions
150 min
Time Limit
70.00%
Passing Score

📚 MHIC Topics to Study (55)

✍️ Sample MHIC Questions & Answers

1. Under Maryland's contractor regulations, how long must a contractor retain records related to a home improvement contract after project completion?
3 years

Maryland MHIC regulations require contractors to retain all contract-related records for at least 3 years following project completion.

2. A contractor's contract includes a mandatory arbitration clause. Which of the following is NOT a required disclosure within that clause according to MHIC regulations?
A statement that the arbitrator's findings are always legally binding.

The arbitration clause must state *whether* the arbitrator's findings are binding, but it is not required that they must be. The clause must also name the arbitrator, disclose any fees, and state that a Guaranty Fund claim will be stayed pending arbitration.

3. A contractor's MHIC license has lapsed for 6 months. To reinstate it, the contractor must:
Apply for reinstatement, pay fees, and may face penalties for unlicensed work during the lapse

Reinstating a lapsed MHIC license requires a new application, payment of fees, and any unlicensed work performed during the lapse may result in additional penalties.

4. Which of the following is a legitimate reason Maryland may waive the educational requirement for an MHIC license applicant?
Documented proof of substantial equivalent professional experience or prior licensure in a related field as determined by the Commission

Maryland may grant waivers for equivalent experience or licensure, but it must be formally reviewed and approved by the Commission.

5. Which of the following MUST be included in a written home improvement contract under Maryland law?
The approximate start and completion dates of the work

Maryland law requires a home improvement contract to include the approximate start date and completion date (or time frame) for the project. This is one of several mandatory provisions under the MHIA designed to protect consumers.

6. A licensed contractor's work vehicle is used for transporting materials and tools to various job sites. According to MHIC regulations, what must be displayed on both sides of this vehicle?
The contractor's MHIC license number, preceded by "MHIC #".

MHIC regulations mandate that licensed contractors must conspicuously display their home improvement license number, preceded by the letters "MHIC #", on both sides of all work vehicles. The lettering must be at least 3 inches high.

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Your MHIC Study Path
1. Learn with Flashcards → 2. Drill Practice Tests → 3. Take the Full Exam Simulation
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