Division of Occupational Licensure – Boston, MA

Division of Occupational Licensure (DOL)

Professional Regulation and Safety

The Division of Occupational Licensure (DOL), formerly the Division of Professional Licensure, is the state agency responsible for the oversight and regulation of over 100 trades and professions in Massachusetts. Located at One Federal Street, the agency’s primary mission is to protect the public health and safety by ensuring that individuals and businesses practicing in the Commonwealth meet established standards of competency and integrity. The DOL oversees numerous boards of registration that license more than 500,000 professionals.

• Construction Trades: Licenses electricians, plumbers, gas fitters, and sheet metal workers.
• Service Professions: Regulates cosmetologists, barbers, massage therapists, and funeral directors.
• Real Estate: Oversees the licensing of real estate brokers, salespersons, and appraisers.
• Public Safety: The Office of Public Safety and Inspections (OPSI) within DOL inspects elevators, boilers, and amusement rides 🎡.

Consumer Protection

Beyond issuing licenses, the DOL investigates complaints filed by consumers against licensees. If a professional fails to adhere to statutes or regulations, the agency has the authority to impose sanctions, suspend, or revoke licenses. The Boston office serves as a central hub for administrative hearings, board meetings, and public record requests regarding licensee status.

Visiting the Office

The DOL Boston office is located in a private office tower at One Federal Street. Unlike open public buildings, this facility has strict building security. Visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID 🆔 at the building’s lobby security desk to receive a visitor badge before proceeding to the agency’s suite. It is highly recommended to check if your business can be handled online via the ePLACE portal before visiting in person.