Handyman Licensing in New Jersey - Housecall Pro
Handyman LICENSING

New Jersey handyman license: everything you need to know

A career in the New Jersey handyman industry provides plenty of opportunities to perform a variety of home improvement projects. In fact, New Jersey is one of the few states that does not place strict limitations on the type of work that home service professionals are authorized to perform.

Obtaining a New Jersey handyman license is a smart career decision. Read this guide to learn more about licensing requirements and job resources.

Do you need a license in New Jersey to become a handyman?

New Jersey does not offer handyman licenses. However, handyman professionals must apply for a home improvement contractor license to perform any type of handyman work in New Jersey.

Home improvement contractors

in New Jersey are authorized to alter, paint, remodel, repair, restore, renovate, move, modernize, or demolish any part of residential properties. This work includes patios, kitchens, cabinets, porches, doors, fences, bathrooms, garages, basements, and floor coverings. Applicants for a New Jersey home improvement contractor license must:

  • Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
  • Submit an application and pay a fee ($110).
  • Complete a disclosure statement.
  • Possess general liability insurance of at least $500,000 per occurrence.

The New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs  issues home improvement contractor licenses. Contractors may be required to obtain additional permits for each job. They earn between $25 to $150 per hour.

How much does It cost to get a handyman license in New Jersey?

The New Jersey home improvement contractor license fee is $110 (non-refundable). Applicants are required to pay any additional costs associated with obtaining a home improvement contractor license.

How to get a handyman license in New Jersey

First, complete a New Jersey handyman license application. Submit the application along with proof of insurance and a disclosure statement.

New Jersey does not require applicants to take exams or training courses. If you want to improve your handyman skills, you should enroll in a few training courses each year.

New Jersey Handyman Training Programs

Program Requirements

  • Possess a high school diploma or GED.
  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Possess basic math, reading, and writing skills.

On-the-Job Experience

  • Construct decks, gazebos, fences, and porches.
  • Demolish commercial and residential structures.
  • Replace windows and siding.
  • Repair and replace residential and commercial roofs.
  • Submit contract bids.

Examples of New Jersey Handyman Program Courses:

  • New Jersey Building Codes
  • Lead and Asbestos Safety
  • Project Management for Home Improvement Professionals
  • First Aid and CPR
  • Construction Blueprints

New Jersey Contractor Course Information:

Expect to pay at least $350 per credit hour at trade schools and community colleges in New Jersey. Online and classroom courses are available. Financial aid is generally available to students who attend accredited schools.

New Jersey Contractor Exam Information:

Home improvement contractor applicants are not required to take examinations.

How to use your handyman license to get a job

A New Jersey home improvement contractor license provides you with the opportunity to work as an independent contractor or an employee for an organization. Apartment management companies, construction companies, and homeowners hire licensed home improvement contractors in New Jersey.

Where to Find Handyman Jobs

Handyman Job Search Tips

  • Inquire about job leads with friends and family members.
  • Advertise your home improvement services on social media or in your community.
  • Contact industry colleagues to inquire about handyman and contractor job opportunities.
  • Apply for jobs each day.
  • Upload copies of your resume to top job boards.

Useful Handyman Job Interview Tips

  • Provide straightforward answers to interview questions.
  • Wear business attire.
  • Bring copies of your references and resumes to the job interview.

Home improvement trends contribute to the expansion of the handyman industry. Residential property owners are keeping their homes longer. Homeowners spend billions of dollars in kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom renovations every year.

Home improvement customers use internet searches to find skilled contractors. Therefore, it’s important for home improvement contractors to have a website with videos and helpful home improvement tips.

With your New Jersey handyman license, Attend home improvement industry trade shows to learn about new trends, tools, and technology. Take a few moments to explore these popular trade shows.

Is my handyman license only valid in New Jersey?

New Jersey does not have reciprocity agreements for home improvement contractor licenses with other states.

I already have a license but:

How often do I need to renew my handyman license in New Jersey?

Handyman professionals are required to renew their home improvement contractor licenses each year by March 31. The renewal fee is $110.