New Mexico is a great place to work as a handyman. The rapid growth in housing in the state means plenty of potential customers needing assistance with minor repairs or installations.
You must have a New Mexico handyman license to work in that capacity in the state. Eligibility requirements are easily met; however, there are many restrictions on the certifications. Keep reading to learn more about how to get a handyman license in New Mexico and what types of work you can and cannot do with one.
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 Mexico?
You must get a New Mexico handyman license to work as a handyman in the state. This certification allows you to complete minor repairs that do not affect the structural integrity of buildings, including repairs to:
- Doors and windows
- Interior walls
- Exterior siding (except stucco)
- Concrete and wooden steps
You are prohibited from completing the following with a handyman certification:
- Roofing (repairs or construction)
- Hiring subcontractors or employees
- Working for a contractor on a larger project
- Building outdoor structures (decks, gazebos, porches, etc.)
- Building driveways
- Electrical, plumbing, or mechanical projects
- Advertising contractor services
Earnings of New Mexico handymen are also limited. Your compensation must remain under $7,200 per year with a handyman certification. This makes the certification excellent for side jobs; however, you may want to consider a general contractor license if you’re going to make being a handyman your primary career.
Is There a Specific Handyman License in New Mexico?
New Mexico is one of a few states with a specific handyman certification. Like other construction-related licenses, it is issued and monitored by the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department, Construction Industries Division.
New Mexico Handyman License Requirements
There are minimal handyman license requirements New Mexico contractors must meet to obtain their certification. They include:
- Be over 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Pay a $15 fee
- Submit a completed, notarized application
- Provide proof of your Certificate of Registration from the Taxation and Revenue Department
- Agree to provide clients a copy of your certification before accepting handyman work
Suppose you want to work on a larger project, earn more than $7,200 per year, or perform restricted construction activities. In that case, you will need to obtain the appropriate license from the Construction Industries Division. Please visit our contractor’s licensing guide, which provides in-depth information about how to get a New Mexico general contractor license.
Additionally, the following articles may help you determine which type of license is best suited for the work you want to do:
- 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)
- Can a Handyman Do a Remodel Job? (Bathroom, Kitchen & More)
- Can a Handyman Hire Subcontractors?
Insurance Requirements
New Mexico handyman license holders are required to carry worker’s compensation insurance. The state Workers’ Compensation Administration mandates this requirement for any businesses requiring licensing by the Construction Industries Division, regardless of the number of employees.
While it is not required, handyman professionals may also decide to purchase a commercial liability policy. This type of insurance protects against claims made for injuries or property damage resulting from your work. Use the tool below to request a free commercial insurance quote from our partners.
New Mexico Handyman Licensing and Registration Fees
You must pay a $15 registration fee to get a New Mexico handyman license. Send your payment along with your completed and notarized application to:
New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department
Construction Industries Division
2550 Cerrillos Road
Santa Fe, NM 87505
Please note that fees are accurate as of the time of writing; however, they are subject to change. Check with the CID for current registration and licensing fees.
New Mexico Handyman License Education Requirements and Exam
There is no examination required to obtain a New Mexico handyman license. However, if you choose to get a contractor license, you must pass the exam administered by PSI testing services.
Handyman Training and Certification Programs
There are several ways to get the training required to complete handyman work in New Mexico. One route is to learn needed skills through direct handyman work. This could be working for a contractor, completing projects around your own home, or volunteering with a building organization like Habitat for Humanity.
Other potential handyman professionals choose to pursue formal education. Several certificates and degrees complement a New Mexico handyman license. These include construction technology, welding, carpentry, and small business management. These are available at many schools throughout the state, including:
- Central New Mexico Community College, Albuquerque, NM (505) 224-3000
- Dona Ana Community College, Las Cruces, NM (575) 527-7592
- Eastern New Mexico University, Ruidoso, NM (575) 315-1140
- New Mexico State University, Carlsbad, NM (575) 527-7732
- San Juan College, Farmington, NM (505) 566-3365
- Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM 505-428-1664
- University of New Mexico, Gallup, NM
- University of New Mexico, Taos, NM (575) 737-6225
- Western New Mexico University, Silver City, NM (575) 538-6301
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.
New Mexico Handyman License Application
A brief application is part of the handyman license requirements New Mexico has instituted. You must provide your name, contact information, and a statement of understanding about the scope of work you can perform as a handyman. You must also have the form notarized.
Handyman License New Mexico FAQ
It is pretty standard for individuals to have questions about how to get a Handyman license in New Mexico. However, the following FAQ may provide some clarification.
1. What Happens If I Do Not Have the Right License?
The CID enforces contractor rules and laws. If an individual with a New Mexico handyman license performs work beyond the scope of their registration, they could face stiff penalties. Potential penalties for unlicensed contracting include:
- Stopping your construction project
- Fines up to 10% of the value of the project or $500, whichever is greater
- Up to six months in jail
2. How Long Is My New Mexico Handyman License Valid?
You must renew your New Mexico handyman license annually. The renewal fee is $15.
3. Who Can I Contact If I Have Questions?
Additional questions about getting a new Mexico handyman license should be directed to one of the three CID help centers. You can contact them at:
- CID – Santa Fe, 2550 Cerrillos Road – 3rd Floor, Santa Fe, New Mexico 87505 (505) 476-4700
- CID – Albuquerque, 5500 San Antonio Dr. Suite F, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87109 (505) 222-9800
- CID – Las Cruces, 505 South Main Street, Suite 103, Loretto Town Center, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88001 (575) 524-6320
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 Mexico, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
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