Handyman Business Permit Requirements in Albuquerque, NM

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. New Mexico Taxation and Revenue — Gross Receipts Tax Registration

   New Mexico levies a GROSS RECEIPTS TAX (GRT) rather than a conventional sales tax, and it applies to goods AND most services performed in New Mexico. Register (free) with the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department for a Business Tax Identification Number. The state GRT rate is 4.875% (since July 1, 2023); combined state + local rates range from about 5.125% to just over 9% depending on your location code — use the department's official rate map.

   Official government source

   Free (no registration fee)·Immediate (online via Taxpayer Access Point)

   Free (no registration fee)

   Immediate (online via Taxpayer Access Point)

2. New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department — Contractor License

   Contractors performing work in New Mexico must be licensed by the NM Regulation and Licensing Department, Construction Industries Division. Requires passing a trade exam and proof of insurance.

   Official government source

   $36 CID application fee (14.5.5 NMAC) + examination fees (~$95 via the testing vendor)·4–8 weeks

   $36 CID application fee (14.5.5 NMAC) + examination fees (~$95 via the testing vendor)

   4–8 weeks

1. City of Albuquerque Planning Department — Business License

   Albuquerque requires an annual Business Registration ($35 per location) through the Planning Department's Business License Section, plus a Certificate of Occupancy for commercial spaces. A current NM Taxation & Revenue Department registration certificate (CRS/BTIN) is required before applying. Renew annually; display at the place of business.

   Official government source

   $35 per year per location (Business License Ordinance section 13-1-4(A)(1), effective 2025-07-01).·1–3 weeks

   $35 per year per location (Business License Ordinance section 13-1-4(A)(1), effective 2025-07-01).

   1–3 weeks

2. Bernalillo County Building Permit (for regulated work)

   Regulated work (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, structural) requires permits — from the City of Albuquerque Building Safety Division inside city limits, or the county for unincorporated addresses. Contractor-licensed work requires an RLD/CID state contractor license; handymen must stay within unlicensed-work limits.

   Official government source

   Per Building Safety fee schedule; unverified.·1–3 weeks

   Per Building Safety fee schedule; unverified.

   1–3 weeks

Official Sources

• City of Albuquerque Planning Department
• New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department — Contractor License

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