A career as a handyman can be rewarding if you enjoy working with your hands and doing something different almost every day. Additionally, if you are in business for yourself, you have some flexibility in the location, scheduling, and types of jobs you choose to take on.
Whether you are already working as a handyman or just starting to look into the New Hampshire handyman license process, you may be surprised to learn that there are very few requirements to perform this role in the state.
New Hampshire is one of a few states that do not require a contractor’s license in most cases. Four main construction fields require licensure, so, as long as you do not perform these jobs, you do not need a license in the state. The jobs that require a specialty contractor license are:
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Asbestos removal
- Lead abatement
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 New Hampshire?
You do not need a license to be a handyman in New Hampshire. However, you will not be allowed to perform restricted jobs that do require licensing, such as plumbing, electrical, or lead and asbestos abatement. You can perform other construction jobs without a license without project cost limits.
Is There a Specific Handyman License in New Hampshire?
There is no specific New Hampshire handyman license. However, if you want to work in a specialty field, you may need a permit. You should contact the appropriate board for each type of license to determine any requirements and restrictions.
New Hampshire Handyman License Requirements
There are very few handyman license requirements New Hampshire contractors have to meet. An individual may work as a handyman on general construction, carpentry, repair, or maintenance projects without any license. There are very few exceptions to this policy.
Additionally, New Hampshire does not require a general contractor license regardless of the size of a project. Visit our general contractor guide for more information about becoming a general contractor in New Hampshire.
There are four categories of construction work that require a specialty contractor license. More information can be found about them by contacting the appropriate state licensing board.
- Plumbing: New Hampshire Mechanical Safety and Licensing Board
- Electrical: Office of Professional Licensure and Certification Electricians’ Board
- Lead abatement: Division of Public Health Services, Healthy Homes and Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
- Asbestos removal: New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services
The following resources provide more information about the differences between a general contractor and a handyman and the scope of work you might be asked to perform. They can be helpful as you learn more about getting your New Hampshire handyman license.
- What Type of Work Can a Handyman Do Legally?
- Does a Handyman Need a License? (What Kind and From Whom)
- What Should a Handyman Be Able To Do? (Skills You Need)
- Are Handymen Cheaper Than a Contractor? By How Much?
- Can a Handyman Do a Remodel Job? (Bathroom, Kitchen & More)
- Can a Handyman Hire Subcontractors?
Insurance Requirements
There are no statewide handyman business insurance requirements in New Hampshire. However, you may still need to purchase certain types of insurance depending on the size and structure of your business.
Workers’ compensation insurance is required for all businesses in the state, with very few exceptions. The program is overseen by the State of New Hampshire Department of Labor, which has excellent information resources for employers.
Surety bonds may be required for certain types of work or handyman jobs in certain localities. Therefore, it is always good to check with local building and zoning departments to determine their handyman license requirements in New Hampshire.
Regardless of whether it is required, you should consider obtaining a commercial liability policy. It can help protect your personal and business assets if a claim is filed against you. Use the tool below to request a free commercial insurance quote from our partners.
New Hampshire Handyman Licensing and Registration Fees
There are no fees associated with obtaining a New Hampshire handyman license. However, if you choose to get a specialty license, you will be responsible for those costs. More information can be found by visiting the appropriate licensing boards for each.
- Environmental Services for asbestos abatement license fees
- Mechanical Safety and Licensing Board for plumbing license fees
- Department of Health and Human Services for lead abatement licensing fees
- Electrician’s Board for electrical contractor license fees
Handyman Training and Certification Programs
Many skills will serve you well as a handyman. For example, construction technology courses at community colleges or technical schools can be beneficial. In addition to technical knowledge, they often also provide hands-on experience with building projects.
Volunteering with building programs, such as Habitat for Humanity, individuals who learn best through doing can provide value. Additionally, even if your goal is to run your own business, there is a wealth of knowledge to be gained by working for an experienced handyman when you are getting started.
You’ll need skills beyond basic construction or home maintenance techniques. For example, you may find tremendous benefit from taking business management classes or working with your local Small Business Administration to find out how to build a strong business foundation.
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 New Hampshire FAQ
The following FAQ can help you cut through the confusion generated by the lack of statewide regulations for New Hampshire handyman licenses.
1. What Happens If I Do Not Have the Right License?
There are very few technical trade licenses in New Hampshire. However, you could face penalties if you perform work where a license is required and do not have the appropriate license. For example, under RSA 319-C:15, it is a misdemeanor to perform electrical work without a license.
2. Who Can I Contact If I Have Questions?
If you still have questions about how to get a handyman license in New Hampshire or whether you need a specialty license, you should contact the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification. The office is open Monday – Friday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm and is located at 7 Eagle Square, Concord, NH 03301. To reach customer support, you can also call (603) 271-2152 or email CustomerSupport@oplc.nh.gov.
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 New Hampshire, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
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