Are you planning to get a handyman license in the state of New Jersey, but you don't know where to start? Perhaps, you've asked someone you know or visited tons of websites already, but the process is still not clear?

Don't worry. I got you covered! I'll explain everything that you need to know on how you'll be able to get that New Jersey handyman license that you are dreaming of! 

Here's everything you need, and let's go straight to the point.‍

Do you need a Handyman License in New Jersey? Here is the answer.

New Jersey doesn't offer handyman licenses. However, handyman professionals must apply for a home improvement contractor license to perform handyman work in New Jersey.

For me, it's a wise career decision to obtain a New Jersey handyman license, and you'll know the reason at the end of this article, so stay with me.

Did you know?

There are plenty of opportunities where a handyman can make a great living performing different home improvement projects in the New Jersey handyman industry. Unlike some states, home service professionals in New Jersey don't face strict limitations on the type of work they're authorized to perform. It's a smart career decision to obtain a New Jersey handyman license. 

What is the cost of obtaining a Handyman License in New Jersey?

The home improvement contractor license is around $100, and it's non-refundable. You must also pay for additional costs associated with a home contractor license.

How to get a Handyman License in New Jersey?

Are you already getting a New Jersey Handyman License? Here are the steps and requirements that you need to know!

First and foremost, you must complete and submit your New Jersey handyman license application together with a disclosure statement and proof of insurance.

An important thing to remember! 

In the state of New Jersey, Handyman License applicants aren't required to take training courses or exams. But make sure to enroll yearly in a few training courses to improve your handyman skills.

Program requirements:

• You are at least 18 years old
• A General Educational Degree (GED) or high school diploma
• You have basic writing, reading, and math skills

On-the-Job Experience

• Construction of fences, porches, decks, and gazebos
• Demolish both residential and commercial structures
• Replace siding and windows
• Replace and repair commercial and residential roofs
• Contract bid submission

Examples of New Jersey Handyman Program Courses:

• New Jersey Building Codes
• Lead and Asbestos Safety
• Project Management for Home Improvement Professionals
• First Aid and CPR
• Construction Blueprints

New Jersey Contractor Course Information:

Trade schools and community colleges in New Jersey expect to pay at least $350 per credit hour. Online classroom courses are also available. You can also seek financial aid if you are a student who attends an accredited school in New Jersey.

New Jersey Contractor Exam Information:

If you are a home improvement contractor, examinations aren't required.

Getting a Home Improvement Contractor License in New Jersey

Home improvement contractors are individuals that are authorized by the state of New Jersey to do the following residential works that involve:

• Home improvement and renovation
• Home remodeling and alteration
• Home repair and restoration
• Modernization and Painting
• Moving or demolishing parts of residential building

Now, for you to get a home improvement contractor license in New Jersey, you must:

• You are at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or General Educational Degree (GED)
• Pay a fee of $100 for your application
• A complete statement of disclosure
• Have at least $500,000 per occurrence general liability insurance

Learn more about tools for your handyman business and pick a good handyman slogan for your business. Floor coverings, basements, garages, bathrooms, doors, fences, bathrooms, cabinets, kitchens, and patios are all part of the work.

What if I got my New Jersey Handyman License? Will it help me get a job?

As a professional handyman or licensed contractor in the state of NJ, many opportunities are available to you. But before you accept any work, the state of New Jersey requires you to have handyman insurance.

You have an opportunity to work as an independent contractor or an employee for an organization with a New Jersey home improvement contractor license. In New Jersey, construction companies, homeowners, and apartment management companies hire licensed home improvement contractors. 

To get a handyman contract, read the tips below.

Handyman Job Search Tips

• Ask family members and friends about job leads
• Use social media to advertise your home improvement services in your community
• Inquire about handyman and contractor job opportunities from industry colleagues.
• Each day, apply for jobs
• Use top job boards to upload copies of your resume
• After submitting resumes to hiring recruiters, send them follow-up emails
• Advertise your services

Places to find handyman jobs:

• Monster Jobs
• ZipRecruiter
• Glassdoor

Got a Job Interview? I got some Job Interview tips for you!

I wish you all the best for your handyman job interview and hope you get the job soon. To help you out and increase your chances of catching the job, here are a few tips:

• You must communicate concisely and clearly
• You must Groom professionally and wear professional attire.
• Arrive early for the interview
• Practice your interview skills.
• Positively acknowledge previous employers.

Is there a trend in the Handyman Industry?

Yes indeed! Did you know that the handyman industry is growing at a rapid rate? Thanks to a strong U.S. economy, thousands of dollars are accessible to homeowners from financial institutions for home renovation. They use this money to hire handyman professionals to replace windows, renovate rooms, and perform electrical work.

Handyman professionals and general contractors do their work differently due to new technology. They learn about new tools and best practices by attending trade shows.

Is my Handyman License only valid in New Jersey?

There aren't any reciprocity agreements for home improvement contractor licenses between New Jersey and other states.

How Often Do I Need to Renew My Handyman License in West Virginia?

You need to renew your New Jersey handyman license every 31st of March, and the renewal fee is $110.

Need more tips?

Are you an amateur handyman seeking to bag your business license or an experienced veteran looking to expand your business entity? Learn how ServGrow's all-in-one handyman software can help your endeavor in the fastest and easiest way. Remember, a successful handyman business is more than a catchy handyman slogan.