Handyman Responsibilties:
A versatile worker skilled in a range of repairs, typically around the home, who handles various maintenance and fixing tasks. Their duties can include plumbing, electrical work, painting, carpentry, and assembling furniture, among other odd jobs that do not always require a specialized license.
Handyman Benefits:
Handymen benefit from flexible job opportunities and diverse work that prevents monotony, often with the freedom to set their own schedules. Their multi-skilled services are in constant demand, providing a steady stream of income and the potential for entrepreneurial growth.
If you are a handyman in California, you do not need a California handyman license. However, there are limitations to the services you can provide. You can perform a wide range of tasks as long as the scope of work for each job is less than $500, including labor and materials. Here are some of the tasks you can do:
If you wish to exceed this limit and take on larger projects, you will need to apply for a general contractor’s license from the California Contractors State License Board. The requirements for obtaining a general contractor’s license include:
If you are a handyman in California, here is some important information regarding the general contractor's license:
The total cost involved in obtaining the license includes an application fee of $330 and an additional fee of $200 after successfully passing the exam.
You can start your handyman career in California right now if you wish to stay unlicensed. However, you must stay under the $500 per project limit.
To go beyond the limit, you will need a general contractor’s license. Here are the basic legal requirements for obtaining the license:
If you wish to obtain your contractor’s license, you are required to have at least 4 years of journeyman experience before you submit your application. A journeyman works unsupervised on a job site performing all of the duties.
California State License Board will need proof of your journeyman experience. The state needs a credible source to prove your work history. The referral can be any of the following:
In California, the general contractor exam requires legal knowledge and applied competency of general contract work. The 3-hour exam is a closed-book test with 115 multiple-choice questions. Applicants take the exam at a California State License Board testing facility center. Learn more here: www.cslb.ca.gov
Here is a list of educational resources and certifications to help bolster your resume and knowledge base:
These programs are available online, and the costs vary.
According to the California State License Board, an active general contractor’s license needs to be renewed every 2 years (inactive every 4 years). The renewal for your license will cost:
Any changes to the business address, name, or any other general information regarding the business should be reflected on the renewal application.
If you are an unlicensed handyman in California, there are ways to find work by leveraging your current network or asking for referrals from previous clients.
If you prefer a more structured setup, you may consider working for an organization as an employee. There are several businesses seeking workers in this field, such as:
It's important to note that many potential employers will conduct background checks, contact your references, and require you to have reliable transportation.
As a handyman in California, it is crucial to stay up-to-date with industry trends and advancements, whether you are licensed or unlicensed. Attending trade shows can be highly beneficial in expanding your knowledge of the latest technology used in the industry. Additionally, these events provide an excellent opportunity to network with other professionals in the field. Consider checking out the following trade shows:
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