You do not have to obtain a Nebraska handyman license to do this type of work legally in the state. However, you do have to register as a home repair contractor with the Department of Labor if you earn more than $5,000 a year doing handyman work. This guide walks you through the necessary handyman license requirements in Nebraska.
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 Nebraska?
You don’t need a handyman license in Nevada, but you do need a valid registration from the Department of Labor as a contractor. For this purpose, the state defines a contractor as anyone who does real estate construction work for pay, including both general contractors and subcontractors. The term construction includes new builds, rebuilds, modifications, additions, repairs, and installations, but does not include installation of water wells and septic systems.
Is There a Specific Handyman License in Nebraska?
Nebraska does not have a handyman license. You must register with the state as a home repair contractor.
Nebraska Handyman License Requirements
Nebraska requires contractor registration through the Department of Labor instead of a handyman license. You must be registered if you make more than $5,000 a year performing home repair work. While the DOL registration covers the construction tasks described above, you must be licensed at the state to perform electrical work and at the city level for plumbing work. Review the General Contractor License Guide to learn more about contractor licensing and registration in Nebraska.
Insurance Requirements
If you have one or more employees in your handyman business, Nebraska requires you to have a certificate of workers’ compensation insurance on file with the Department of Labor. Failure to keep a current certificate will result in the loss of your state contractor registration. You may also want to purchase a general liability policy to protect your personal assets from a business-related lawsuit.
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Nebraska Handyman Licensing and Registration Fees
Nebraska charges an annual fee of $25 to register as a contractor. You do not need to take an exam or have a background check to qualify. While this price is currently accurate, fees are subject to change.
Handyman Training and Certification Programs
Although Nebraska does not require handyman certification, training programs can help you advance your career and build consumer trust in your business.
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.
Nebraska Handyman License Application
To apply for a handyman license in Nebraska, you must create a profile on the state’s Contractor Registration Portal. To register, enter your name and birthdate and create a username and password. After you successfully access the system, follow the prompts to complete your application.
Handyman License Nebraska FAQ
These are the answers to the most common questions people have about how to get a handyman license in Nebraska.
1. What Happens If I Do Not Have the Right License?
While Nebraska does not require a handyman license, you must register your business with the state if you earn more than $5,000 a year. Lack of registration can result in fees and penalties along with the suspension of your ability to legally do business in the state until you come into compliance.
2. How Long Is My Nebraska Handyman License Valid?
Nebraska does not have a handyman license, but your required registration is good for one year. The state will send you a letter when it is time to renew, and you can do so on the contractor registration portal.
3. Who Can I Contact If I Have Questions?
If you have questions about registering as a handyman in Nebraska, you can contact the Department of Labor at (402) 471-2239 or by email at NDOL.ContractorRegistration@nebraska.gov.
Pursing a career as a handyman does not require special training or a Nebraska handyman license. If you like working with your hands, you can potentially thrive as a general home repair contractor.
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 Nebraska, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
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