Handyman license requirements in Texas
Short answer: Texas has no state handyman or general contractor license and no dollar limit. What matters is the type of work: electrical, HVAC and plumbing need state licenses at any job size, and some cities require you to register.
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.
What needs a state license
- Electrical work: licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).
- Air conditioning and refrigeration: also licensed by TDLR.
- Plumbing: licensed by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE).
These apply no matter how small the job is. General repairs, carpentry, drywall, painting, doors, trim and assembly don't need a state license.
City rules
Several Texas cities, including Dallas and San Antonio, ask contractors to register before pulling permits, and some ask for proof of insurance. Check the building department in each city you work in.
Official sources
Questions
Do you need a license to be a handyman in Texas?
No. Texas has no state handyman or general contractor license. Electrical, HVAC and plumbing work need state licenses, and some cities require contractor registration.
Is there a dollar limit for handymen in Texas?
No. Texas regulates by type of work, not job size.
More guides
- Do you need a license to be a handyman? Rules by stateDollar limits, trade work and local rules, state by state.
- How to start a handyman business: a checklistLicensing, insurance, pricing and your first customers.
- How to price handyman jobs: hourly, flat rate, or bothHourly, flat rate or both, and how to set each one.
- How to write a handyman estimate that gets a yesWhat to include, what to leave out, and when to follow up.