Do you need a license in West Virginia to become a handyman?

West Virginia does not offer handyman licenses. However, you must possess a West Virginia contractor license to work on any project that is valued above $2,500. Handyman professionals can perform minor services, such as repairing windows, patching holes in walls, and interior painting.

Contractors in West Virginia are authorized to replace and repair roofs, advertise contractor services, make structural changes to building, replace garage doors, repair steps, build driveways, supervise subcontractors, and replace siding. Applicants for a West Virginia contractor license must:

• Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
• Be a full-time employee or owner/officer/member of a company.
• Register to take the West Virginia contractor exam.
• Register with the West Virginia Tax Department to receive a business registration tax number.
• Possess workers’ compensation and unemployment compensation for employees (business owners only).
• Submit a wage bond status affidavit.
• Submit a contractor license application and fee.

The West Virginia Division of Labor – Contractor Licensing Boar issues contractor licenses. Handyman professionals may be required to obtain additional permits for each job.Handyman professionals in West Virginia earn between $12 and $30 per hour. Licensed contractors generally earn up to $95 per hour.

How much does it cost to get a handyman license in West Virginia?

The cost to submit a contractor application is $90. Applicants are required to pay additional costs for bonds, tax applications, and other fees associated with applying for a West Virginia handyman license.

How to get a handyman license in West Virginia

First, determine your license classification by contacting the West Virginia contractor licensing board. Schedule your exam and obtain a tax number and Certificate of Authority. Then, submit your application, wage bond affidavit, and application fee to the licensing board.

The West Virginia licensing board does not require contractors to take classes. However, enrolling in classes sharpens your skills and increases your value in the marketplace.

West Virginia Handyman Training Programs

• Contractor Training Center
• WV Laborers Training Center
• West Virginia University Extension Service

Program Requirements

• Possess a high school diploma or GED.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Possess basic math, reading, and writing skills.

On-the-Job Experience

• Replace and repair commercial and residential roofs.
• Demolish commercial and residential structures.
• Replace windows and siding.
• Submit contract bids.

Examples of West Virginia Handyman Program Courses:

• Asbestos Safety
• Project Management and Operations
• West Virginia Building Codes
• First Aid and CPR
• Blueprints for Construction

West Virginia Contractor Courses:

Expect to pay at least $250 per credit hour at trade schools and community colleges in West Virginia. Online and classroom courses are available. Financial aid is available to students who attend accredited schools.

West Virginia Contractor Exam Information:

The West Virginia contractor examination is administered by

ProV Exams

. Each exam costs $51.95. You can take your contractor exam at any of the designated exam centers in West Virginia. Applicants must pass a knowledge test and a business/law exam. The passing score for each test is 70%.

West Virginia Contractor Exam Content

• Remodeling and Repair
• Piping
• Multifamily
• General Building
• Masonry

West Virginia Exam Resources

• WV Licensing Candidate Exam Information
• Contractor License Exam Prep
• West Virginia Contractors Practice Exam

How to use Your handyman license to get a job

In West Virginia, laborer and management opportunities exist for handyman professionals and contractor licensees. Maximize your West Virginia handyman license with the resources below.

Where to Find Handyman Jobs

• Glassdoor
• Monster Jobs
• ZipRecruiter

Handyman Job Search Tips

• Contact industry colleagues to inquire about handyman and contractor job opportunities.
• Advertise your services in your community.
• Create profiles on job boards.
• Apply for at least three jobs a day.
• Send follow-up emails to hiring recruiters after you submit your resumes.

Useful Handyman Job Interview Tips

• Speak clearly and concisely.
• Wear professional clothing to the interview.
• Arrive at the interview early.

Handyman industry trends

When it comes to home renovations and repairs, customers value convenience. Some customers prefer scheduling appointments on handyman apps. Not only can they book their services within a few minutes, they can pay for their services with a credit card.

Commercial and residential renovations are on the rise. Instead of moving to new locations, many property owners hire contractors to renovate their properties.

To learn more about the latest trends in the handyman and contractor industry, you should attend trade shows. Here are a few popular trade shows for you to explore:

• The National Association of Women in Construction National Conference
• West Virginia Construction and Design Expo
• Build Expo USA
• PlanGrid Construction Summit

Is my handyman license only valid in West Virginia?

West Virginia has contractor license reciprocity agreements with North Carolina, Ohio, and Alabama. To obtain licenses in these states, submit an application to each state’s licensing authority.

I already have a license but:

• I changed my name – Contact the West Virginia licensing board to change your name on your card. ($10 fee)
• I misplaced the card – Order a replacement card. ($10 fee)
• I changed my address – Change your address on your card. ($10 fee)

How often do I need to renew my handyman license in West Virginia?

Handyman professionals who have a West Virginia contractor license must renew it every year. The renewal cost is $90. The late payment fee is $25.