How to Obtain a Handyman License

Co-authored by Ryaan Tuttle

Last Updated: October 30, 2022 References Approved

The requirements for a handyman license vary from state to state. Some states, such as Texas and Arizona require specific credentials that lead to a handyman contractor's license which covers different aspects of handyman work including remodeling and landscaping for commercial and residential properties. Other states, such as Florida, require only a business license for professional handymen. Obtain a handyman license by determining what your state requires and demonstrating the necessary experience and business intent.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Getting a Handyman License

1
Check the licensing requirements in your state.^{[1]
X
Research source} The State Board of Contractors, or a similar agency, will be able to provide you with information on what is required since each state's requirements are different.^{[2]
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- Look for your state's contact information through the National Contractor License Service: http://www.clsi.com/state_contractor_license_board.htm
2
Find a professional handyman association in your area. They can also be a great resource in explaining what type of license is required in your state.^{[3]
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3
Find out from your State Board of Contractors whether you will need a single handyman license, or several. This will depend on your state and the type of services you offer. As an example, a handyman in Arizona must apply for a license in each specific area he services.
4
Get adequate handyman training. In order to become licensed, you will need to demonstrate credentials in areas of handyman work.
- Look for classes offered at your local trade school or community college. There are often handyman training programs on the schedule.
- Find out if training is offered by your state or local handyman association. This might include hands-on training with a qualified and licensed professional as well as classroom learning.
5
Sign up to take an exam. Most states that require a handyman contractor's license will require you to take and pass an exam.^{[4]
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- Get testing dates and locations from the State Board of Contractors, and leave yourself enough time to study and prepare before taking the exam.
6
Study for the exam. There are seminars available through professional handyman associations and the National Contractor License Service.
- Study code books for your state and any other recommended reading provided by the State Board of Contractors or the National Contractor License Service.
7
Fill out an application for your license. Once you successfully pass the handyman contractor's exam, you can apply for your license. Test scores are valid for 1 year in most states, so get your license right after you pass your test.
- Complete any necessary paperwork and forms that are required by your State Board of Contractors. You may be required to submit other documentation, including a resume and proof of insurance, and most states assess a fee for your license.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Obtaining a Business License

1
Create a business name.^{[5]
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Research source} For states that require a business license, you will need a name for your handyman business.
2
Get a licensing information packet from your State Board of Contractors. They will provide information on how to register your business name with your state.
3
Contact your state's office of small business affairs or the Secretary of State for necessary business license application forms.^{[6]
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4
Submit all of the application paperwork and supporting documentation. Pay any associated fees. Some states will award your business license immediately, and other states will have a 4 to 6 week waiting period.
5
Establish yourself as a Sole Proprietorship or a Limited Liability Company (LLC).^{[7]
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6
Obtain liability insurance.^{[8]
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Research source} Most states require that you are insured, and the amounts of insurance you carry will vary by state.
- Shop around for the best handyman insurance rates. You can compare quotes on sites such as www.comparethemarket.com and other commercial insurance sites.

Community Q&A

Question

Do I need a CSCS card to be a handyman on site?

Community Answer

CSCS card applicants need to prove they have the training and qualifications required to carry out their jobs, and apply for the correct card for their occupation. The requirements can be checked by using the online card finder, which also confirms which type of CITB Health, Safety and Environment test needs to be passed.
Question

How do I get a handyman license in Pasco County Florida?

Community Answer

There is no handyman license in the state of Florida. You have to file your business name with the state, and Pasco County (business tax receipt). You can get more than one tax receipt depending on the services you are providing. You may also be required to run a newspaper ad for a fictitious name filing or DBA.
Question

How do I find out if my state requires me to have a handyman license?

Community Answer

clsi.com/state_contractor_license_board.htm. Just find your state, click on it, and it will tell you what you need to know.