How to Get Your
California Handyman License
Your complete guide to becoming a licensed handyman in California. Learn about requirements, costs, insurance needs, and the step-by-step process to launch your handyman career.
California Handyman License Quick Facts
Minimum Age
18 years
Experience Required
4 years journeyman level
License Fee
$530 (initial)
Licensing Body
CSLB
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Bond Required
$15,000
Do you know that a skilled handyman is in high demand in California? In 2022, the size of the global handyman service market was around $339.10 million, and it has the potential to reach $1.65 billion by the year 2032 with a CAGR of 17%. In California's booming housing market, you might find that homeowners are seeking handyman services to repair, remodel, and maintain their homes. When you decide to start your own small business and want to become a part of this trend, you may wonder if you need a handyman license in California to do so. A handyman could benefit from adhering to the law and expanding their business. This article lists the steps for getting a California handyman license, from determining whether you need the license to obtaining one.
Do You Need a Handyman License in California?
The California license law does not require a license for you to work as a handyman. Despite this, certain conditions need to be met. It is permissible for an unlicensed contractor to perform most services without getting penalized if the job does not cost more than $500 (including labor and materials).
An unlicensed handyman in California can complete projects under $500 (including labor and materials) without a contractor license.
The unlicensed handyman in California can complete the following tasks:
- Make fences more secure
- Door repair
- Patch drywall and hang it
- TV mounts
- Appliance repair
- Fan installation
- Fix faulty toilets
CSLB requires general contractors to obtain a California license if their project exceeds $500. Below is a list of requirements:
- Work experience of four years
- An insurance certificate
- $15,000 bond for the contractor
- The completion of the trade, business, and law examinations
It is not advisable to break down projects into smaller amounts to remain under this threshold. As a result, your projects will be limited. Imagine you are renovating a dining room. For the entire project, the Contractors State License Boards (CSLB) will consider the material costs, labor costs (including your own), and expert fees. This way, the project's total cost is determined; hence, determining whether you need a contractor license.
Who Provides Handyman Licenses in California?
California Licensing Authority
Contractors State License Board
CSLBThe CSLB is responsible for issuing all contractor licenses in California under the Department of Consumer Affairs
Types of Contractor Licenses in California
There is nothing wrong with working on smaller projects as an unlicensed handyman, but getting your license is an excellent way to gain the trust of your customers and work on larger projects. An excellent place to begin is by researching what different types of California contractor licenses are available. Licensing by CSLB (Contractors State License Board) is issued by the California Department of Consumer Affairs.
License Types Available
Choose Your License Path
Class A: General Engineering
Engineers and technical experts specializing in general engineering and technological problems.
Key Requirements
- 4 years experience at journeyman level
- Pass trade and law exams
- $15,000 contractor bond
Class B: General Building Contractor
When larger projects require the skills of at least two different types of trade specialists, a general contractor can hire subcontractors and specialty contractors.
Key Requirements
- 4 years experience at journeyman level
- Pass trade and law exams
- $15,000 contractor bond
Class C: Specialty Contractor
A contractor with specialized skills. 43 different subclassifications within class C correspond to different trades including carpenters, HVAC specialists, roofers, electricians, and swimming pool builders.
Key Requirements
- 4 years experience in specialty trade
- Pass specialty trade exam
- $15,000 contractor bond
Requirements for Getting Handyman License
Before applying for your contractor's license, your experience and documentation must be in order before you start handyman work.
CSLB Requirements
California Contractor License Requirements
1Basic Requirements
All applicants must meet these
Basic Requirements
All applicants must meet these
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Driver's license, state identification card, or individual taxpayer identification number
- Business entity and owner information
- Qualified individual information (who meets the requirements for work experience)
- Work experience certification form for qualified individual
2Experience Requirements
Journeyman level experience
Experience Requirements
Journeyman level experience
- Minimum of 4 years of experience as a journeyman, foreperson, or supervisor in the field
- Experience must be from within the last 10 years
- Up to 3 years can be counted from completing an apprenticeship program or accredited school's training program
- Military training and experience can also count (documentation required)
- List of tutors or specialists who can verify your training or work experience
3Additional Requirements
Before license issuance
Additional Requirements
Before license issuance
- Submit fingerprints for background check
- Pass state examination (law and business)
- Post a surety bond of $15,000 with CSLB or file a cashier's check for $15,000
- Provide worker's compensation insurance for employees (or exemption if no employees)
As defined by the CSLB, a journeyman has the experience of completing an apprenticeship program or that of being an experienced worker, not a trainee, and is capable of performing a specific trade without supervision. It's a comprehensive definition that could be used in various ways. Your help as your parent's licensed employee could add up over time. Adding a formal education could put you well on your way to passing.
Essential Skills for California Handymen
Before applying for a contractor's license in California, handymen should possess a few skills. A minimum set of skills that you'll need (whether you're looking for a job or starting your own business) includes:
- Assembling furniture
- Maintenance of exteriors and interiors
- Installation and repair of doors and windows
- Repairing tiles
- Painting and staining of the interior and exterior
- Repairing drywall
- Maintenance and installation of lighting
- Installation of ceiling fans
- Carpentry, plumbing, and electrical tasks of a minor nature
- Services for winterizing interiors
- Maintenance and repair of yards and fences
How Much Does it Cost to Get Handyman License in California?
CSLB Fee Structure
California Contractor License Fees
| License Type | Exam Fee | License Fee | Renewal Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application Fee Paid at time of application | — | $330 | |
| Initial License Fee 2-year term when approved | — | $200 | |
| Additional License If applying for additional classification | — | $75 | |
| Fingerprint Processing Criminal history verification | — | $49 | |
| Exam Rescheduling If you need to reschedule | — | $60 |
Source: California Contractors State License Board
California contractor's licenses cost at least $699 for one classification (not including potential rescheduling fees). This includes $330 application fee + $200 license fee + $49 fingerprinting + additional fees.
Renewal Fees
Maintaining your handyman license with the CSLB is a requirement once you have it. An active California handyman license expires every two years, while an inactive license expires every four years. Approximately 60 days before the expiration of your license, the CSLB will send you a renewal application.
Active vs Inactive Licenses
License Renewal Fees
| License Type | Exam Fee | License Fee | Renewal Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Renewal (On Time) Every 2 years | — | $450 | |
| Active Renewal (Late) After expiration | — | $675 | |
| Inactive Renewal (On Time) Every 4 years | — | $225 | |
| Inactive Renewal (Late) After expiration | — | $337 |
After 45 days of your license's expiration, the CSLB recommends you order a renewal online.
Steps to Get Your California Handyman License
The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) is responsible for issuing California general contractor licenses.
Step-by-Step Guide
Your Path to Becoming a Licensed Contractor
Getting to Know Different Types of Contractor Licenses
Research the different types of California contractor licenses available: Class A (General Engineering), Class B (General Building Contractor), or Class C (Specialty Contractor with 43 subclassifications).
Get Contractor Licensing Information
Gather required documentation including age proof (18+), SSN or ITIN, business entity information, and qualified individual information. The requirements differ slightly for each classification.
CSLB License RequirementsObtain the Required Training and Experience
Gain at least 4 years of experience as a journeyman, foreperson, or supervisor in your field. Experience must be from within the last 10 years. Up to 3 years can count from apprenticeship programs or accredited training.
Fill Out and Submit Your Application
Complete the contractor license application with all necessary documents. Submit online or mail to: California Contractors State License Board, P.O. Box 26000, Sacramento, CA 95826. Pay the $330 application fee.
Apply OnlineComplete Fingerprinting
Submit fingerprints for criminal background check. This typically costs $49.
Prepare for and Take the Examination
You will receive notification about 3 weeks before your exam date. Study the California law and business topics including construction safety, project contracting, budgeting, and financial management.
CSLB Study GuidePost Your Contractor Bond
File a surety bond of $15,000 with CSLB or submit a cashier's check for $15,000 to the agency.
Obtain Workers' Compensation Insurance
Provide proof of worker's compensation insurance for anyone you hire, or file an exemption if you do not hire others.
Congratulations! You're Licensed!
Upon passing the exams, the Board will issue your license. It will take about one week to receive both your certificate and card. You can now legally work on projects over $500!
If an unlicensed contractor is caught commencing an offense for the first time, they will be fined or sentenced to imprisonment. If the offense is done continually, the penalties and fines increase. It is possible to face hefty fines and even criminal charges if you fail to obtain a California handyman license. Fines can range from $100 to $5,000, depending on the severity of the violation.
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Start Your FREE TrialWhat Kind of Insurance Does a Handyman Need in California?
You will need the right general contractor insurance to obtain a handyman license in California. As long as you only do small jobs, you should have handyman insurance. For a handyman services provider, the following types of insurance are recommended:
1. Workers' Compensation Insurance
It's essential to have workers' compensation insurance if you have employees, and it covers lost wages, medical expenses, and other costs associated with on-the-job injuries.
2. The General Liability Insurance Policy
The liability insurance you need will cover your liability for bodily injury to third parties and accidental loss or damage to property. This type of insurance will be asked for as proof by most clients.
3. Tools and Equipment Insurance
If your work gear, tools, and equipment are damaged or stolen, insurance coverage can provide repair and replacement coverage for your equipment and tools.
4. Commercial Auto Insurance
As handymen are likely to drive to different job sites at different times, you must obtain insurance for your auto for commercial purposes to cover any expenses related to an accident, such as towing, repairs, and rental reimbursements. Additionally, managing towing invoices efficiently can help ensure that all related costs are documented and handled properly.
5. Commercial Property Insurance
Whether you own or rent a commercial property, your equipment and inventory are covered by your commercial property insurance.
Here, we discussed different types of insurance that any handyman needs to run his business in California. Apart from insurance, we also discussed the requirements, steps, and penalties to get a handyman license in California. Once you successfully get a license and start your own independent business, then you will definitely need an estimate and invoice software. The software allows you to create estimates and invoices in real time, saving you time and effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Upon receiving a form or document, it is processed in the order it is received. By visiting the CSLB website, it is possible to check the status of your contractor's license application online.
It is possible to face hefty fines and even criminal charges if you fail to obtain a California handyman license. In case you don't have a contractor's license, it can result in a fine of between $100 and $5,000, depending on the severity of the violation.
Yes, you can work as an unlicensed handyman in California as long as your projects (including labor and materials) cost less than $500. However, getting a contractor's license allows you to work on larger projects and builds trust with clients.
Class A is for general engineering and technical projects. Class B is for general building contractors who manage larger projects requiring multiple trade specialists. Class C is for specialty contractors with 43 different subclassifications for specific trades like carpentry, HVAC, roofing, electrical, etc.
The process typically takes several weeks to months, depending on how quickly you can gather your documentation, schedule and pass your exam, and complete all requirements. The CSLB processes applications in the order they are received.
No, this is not advisable and is against CSLB regulations. The CSLB considers the total cost of the entire project, including all material costs, labor costs (including your own), and expert fees. Breaking down projects artificially to stay under the limit could result in penalties.
Conclusion
A contractor's license isn't always required in California, but it can help you get new customers and grow your business. A handyman who possesses a contractor license can accept large projects, and potential clients can be amazed at how professional the handyman appears. Getting a handyman license could be a great investment if you plan to run your handyman business in California.
The global handyman service market is projected to grow from $339.10 million to $1.65 billion by 2032 with a CAGR of 17%. California's booming housing market offers tremendous opportunities for licensed handymen to grow their businesses and serve homeowners seeking quality repair, remodel, and maintenance services.
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