Handyman license requirements in Tennessee

By PlainJob · Updated October 13, 2026 · 3 min read

Short answer: Tennessee has three tiers: jobs under $3,000 need no state license, $3,000 to $24,999 needs a home improvement license in certain counties, and $25,000 and up needs a full contractor license. Electrical and plumbing always need a license.

General information, not legal advice. Checked October 13, 2026 against the sources below. Rules change, so confirm with the agency before you take a job.

The three tiers

Under $3,000 (labor and materials): no state license, as long as it isn't electrical, plumbing or HVAC work.
$3,000 to $24,999: a Home Improvement License from the Board for Licensing Contractors, required in certain counties, including Davidson (Nashville), Shelby (Memphis), Knox (Knoxville) and Hamilton (Chattanooga).
$25,000 and up: a full contractor license with exams and financial requirements.

Splitting a job to stay under a limit counts as unlicensed contracting.

Trade work

Electrical and plumbing work need a trade license at any job size. For smaller jobs, Tennessee offers limited electrician and plumber licenses, and cities may add their own requirements.

Official sources

Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance: licensing boards

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Questions

Do you need a license to be a handyman in Tennessee?

Not for jobs under $3,000 that aren't electrical, plumbing or HVAC. From $3,000 to $24,999, some counties require a home improvement license, and $25,000 and up needs a contractor license.