Do you need a license to work as a mobile mechanic in Massachusetts? Requirements, fees, and the rules that actually apply.
In Massachusetts, general mechanical mobile repair is not separately state-licensed, but auto-body and collision work is (Motor Vehicle Damage Repair Shop registration (G.L. c. 100A) via MA Division of Standards (DOS), roughly $300, plus a $10,000 bond). If you do purely mechanical work you generally need no state license, but verify your specific scope.
| Requirement | Damage/body |
| License / registration | Motor Vehicle Damage Repair Shop registration (G.L. c. 100A) |
| Issuing authority | MA Division of Standards (DOS) |
| Fee | $300 |
| Renewal | Periodic |
| Surety bond | $10,000 bond |
| Scope / notes | Auto-body/damage shops; general-mechanical scope unclear — verify with DOS |
Regardless of your state, these apply to mobile mechanics nationwide:
Not for general mechanical work. Massachusetts licenses auto-body/collision repair, but pure mechanical mobile work generally needs no state license — verify your scope.
The Massachusetts fee is approximately $300 plus a $10,000 bond.
Massachusetts does not require insurance to be licensed, but general liability and garage-keepers coverage are strongly advised and are typically required by fleet clients, apartment complexes, and dealer accounts.
Only if you hold EPA Section 609 certification, which is a federal requirement nationwide. It is a single exam, does not expire, and is required before you handle refrigerant on any vehicle.