# Do I need a license to start a handyman business?

Usually a general business license, if your city or county requires one; rules on which jobs need a contractor or trade license differ a lot by location, so ProfitDrawer's handyman guide says to check with your city, county and state before you quote any job. One federal rule applies everywhere: paid work that disturbs paint in homes, child care facilities and preschools built before 1978 falls under EPA's lead paint rule, and the firm, even a sole proprietorship, must be certified by EPA or an EPA-authorized state or Tribal program.

**Why it varies:** the SBA explains that licenses can come from federal, state and local agencies. States regulate a broader range of activities than the federal government, and counties and cities often license activities such as construction and plumbing.

**Checklist from the guide:**

1. **Ask your city and county** about a general business license, and ask which jobs need a contractor or trade license.
2. **Register your business name** (a DBA) if you trade under a name other than your own.
3. **Pick a structure:** sole proprietor, or an LLC with a state filing fee.
4. **Get an EIN** if you hire or form a partnership or corporation. It costs $0 on irs.gov.
5. **Get general liability insurance,** since you work in other people's homes, and workers' compensation if you hire in most states.
6. **Follow the EPA lead rule.** The Renovation, Repair and Painting rule covers paid work that disturbs paint in pre-1978 homes, child care facilities and preschools. EPA says certification covers all firms, "even sole proprietorships."

Do not guess on electrical, plumbing or structural work: ask your local licensing office first. General information, not legal advice.

- Source: [Apply for licenses and permits (U.S. Small Business Administration)](https://www.sba.gov/counseling/launch-your-business/#licenses-permits)
- Updated: 2026-10-29
- Published: 2026-10-29
- Category: Start a business
- Canonical: https://profitdrawer.com/answers/do-i-need-a-license-to-start-a-handyman-business.html
- Publisher: ProfitDrawer (https://profitdrawer.com)