Texas Handyman Rules: What Needs a Licensed Trade

Texas has no handyman license, so general repairs like patching, painting and trim don't require one. Electrical work, plumbing and air conditioning contracting do require state licenses, with limited exemptions. Some cities register contractors for remodeling, and most remodels need permits.

Who licenses handyman services providers in Texas

No state handyman license in Texas (trades licensed by TDLR and the State Board of Plumbing Examiners). Texas does not license handymen. Electrical work requires a license under Occupations Code 1305.151, plumbing requires a license, registration or endorsement under 1301.351, and air conditioning and refrigeration contracting requires a license under 1302.251. Check electricians and AC contractors on TDLR's license search.

Check a trade license on TDLR →

Key facts for Texas

Texas law says a person or business may not perform or offer electrical work or residential appliance installation without an appropriate license, with exemptions.
Texas law says a person may not engage in plumbing unless they hold the proper license, registration or endorsement and their work is supervised as required.
Texas requires a license to engage in air conditioning and refrigeration contracting.
Handyman is not among the programs the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation oversees.
Houston says mechanical, electrical and plumbing work must generally be permitted and performed by a licensed person.
San Antonio requires Home Improvement Contractor registration for non-structural remodeling, conversions and modernizations.
Austin exempts painting, tiling, carpeting, cabinets and countertops from building permits.

What can a Texas handyman do?

Texas doesn't license handymen, so general repairs and finish work are open. Austin, for example, exempts painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets and countertops from building permits (City of Austin).

Some cities still register people who remodel. San Antonio requires Home Improvement Contractor registration for non-structural remodeling (City of San Antonio).

What needs a licensed trade?

Electrical work and residential appliance installation need an appropriate license (1305.151). Plumbing needs the proper license, registration or endorsement (1301.351). Air conditioning and refrigeration contracting needs a contractor license (1302.251). Check electricians and AC contractors on TDLR's license search.

What about pre-1978 homes?

Texas does not run its own lead renovation program, so the EPA's rule applies directly (EPA). Anyone paid to disturb paint in a pre-1978 home above small size limits must be EPA certified.

How to choose a provider in Texas

Use a handyman for finish work and small non-structural repairs.
Hire licensed trades for electrical, plumbing and AC work.
Check your city's registration and permit rules for remodeling.
Ask about EPA lead-safe certification for pre-1978 homes.
Get the scope and price in writing.

Questions people ask

Is there a handyman license in Texas?

No. But electrical, plumbing and AC work require state licenses.

Can a Texas handyman install a ceiling fan?

Electrical work and residential appliance installation require an appropriate license under Texas law, with limited exemptions.

Can a Texas handyman fix a leaking pipe?

Plumbing requires a proper license, registration or endorsement in Texas, with limited exceptions.

Does painting need a permit in Austin?

No. Austin exempts painting and similar finish work from building permits.

Does San Antonio register handymen?

San Antonio requires Home Improvement Contractor registration for non-structural remodeling work.

Does the lead rule apply in Texas?

Yes. Texas isn't authorized to run its own program, so the EPA rule applies.

Sources

This guide was written by our editorial team from the public sources listed above. It is general information, not legal advice; confirm licensing and terms directly with any provider.

What can a handyman do in Texas without a license?