A handyman performs valuable services for home and business owners. They often perform routine maintenance, small remodeling or renovation projects, or big cleaning jobs like pressure washing. There is somewhat lax oversight of this type of work in many places; however, that is not the case everywhere.
Arizona requires anyone performing construction work valued at over $1,000 to have a contractor’s license, sometimes called an Arizona handyman license. Without it, you will want to be sure to stay within the constraints of unlicensed handyman services by accepting smaller projects that neither require a building permit nor cost more than $1,000 in labor and materials. If you bid on or accept a project outside those limits, you should be prepared to apply for the appropriate Arizona general contractor license.
Disclaimer: This article is not legal advice. You should consult your local regulations and a qualified attorney for legal advice.
Do You Need a License to be a Handyman in Arizona?
Arizona requires anyone performing remodeling, renovation, or construction services valued at $1,000 or more — or if a building permit is needed, regardless of the cost — to have a contractor’s license. If you only perform work under this threshold, you do not need a license to be a handyman in Arizona. You can instead perform work under the state handyman exemption.
Is There a Specific Handyman License in Arizona?
There is no license specific to handyman services. However, since the cost threshold is so low for contractor licensing, many businesses offering these services will need to obtain an appropriate general contractor license in the state.
Arizona Handyman License Requirements
If you are performing smaller jobs within the scope of the noted “handyman exemption,” then there are no handyman license requirements in Arizona. However, you must be aware that you cannot bid on or complete projects valued over $1,000 or where a building permit is needed. In those cases, you will need an Arizona contractor’s license. For more detail about obtaining that license, visit our Arizona general contractor guide.
Do you need more information about the general requirements for becoming a handyman? These resources may help:
- Does a Handyman Need a License? (What Kind and From Whom)
- Can a Handyman Do a Remodel Job? (Bathroom, Kitchen & More)
- Can a Handyman Hire Subcontractors?
Insurance Requirements
Arizona requires all businesses with employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance. You may apply for self-insurance through the Arizona Industrial Commission, which oversees workers’ compensation programs.
Licensed general contractors must obtain a security bond as part of the licensing process. However, there is no such requirement for handypersons.
Regardless of whether it is required, it is a good business practice to obtain general liability insurance. It can protect you if someone is injured or property is damaged as a result of your work. Use the tool below to request a free commercial insurance quote from our partners.
Arizona Handyman Licensing and Registration Fees
Since you do not need an Arizona handyman license to obtain work, there are no fees outside of registering your business.
The Arizona Register of Contractors provides information about costs associated with obtaining a contractor license. In general, you can expect them to be between $580 and $1050. You will also need to pay any fees for the required exams and background checks–but this is only required if you pursue a general contractor license.
Handyman Training and Certification Programs
There are few formal handyman training programs; however, certain programs can help you acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to perform basic handyman work. For example, many community or technical colleges offer certificates in plumbing, electrical, masonry, and basic carpentry skills.
You might also choose to gain hands-on experience. This can be achieved by working for a tradesperson, volunteering with an organization like Habitat for Humanity, or doing improvement projects around your own home.
Specific certifications or memberships, such as obtaining a home inspector certificate or joining The Association of Certified Handyman Professionals, can lend credibility to your business. It is also essential to understand fundamental business principles, which you can gain through an online training program.
Handyman License Arizona FAQ
Do you need more information about obtaining an Arizona handyman license? These answers to a few of the most common questions we get from potential handypersons may help.
1. What Happens If I Do Not Have the Right License?
There are strict penalties for operating without a license in Arizona. Performing work over the $1,000 cost threshold without a license (a violation of A.R.S. § 32-1151) is a class 1 misdemeanor that could cost you up to $2,500 in fines, six months in jail, and a surcharge.
Most first-time violations will be met with the minimum $1,000 fine; however, repeat violations can cost you significantly more and may land you on the Arizona Registrar of Contractors’ Most Wanted list.
2. Who Can I Contact If I Have Questions?
If you still have questions about how to get a handyman license in Arizona, contact the Arizona Registrar of Contractors licensing office. You can reach them during normal business hours by phone — Phoenix: (602) 542-1525 or Flagstaff: (877) 692-9762 — or email.
For More License and Career Guides
To find out how to become a Handyman in another state, start here.
For information on other trades in Arizona, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
Call Us