Handyman Business Permit Requirements in Las Cruces, 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 Las Cruces — Business Registration

   Las Cruces requires an annual business registration for any business with a physical location in city limits, including home-based businesses. Apply through the city's online Citizen Portal; an NM CRS/Business Tax ID number is required first. The registration must be renewed annually.

   Official government source

   $35/year ($20/year for nonprofits)·1–3 weeks

   $35/year ($20/year for nonprofits)

   1–3 weeks

2. Doña Ana County Building Permit (for regulated work)

   Certain handyman tasks — including electrical, plumbing, HVAC work, or structural modifications — require permits pulled from the Doña Ana County or City of Las Cruces building department. Handymen should not perform licensed contractor work without the appropriate state license.

   Official government source

   Fees vary by project scope and valuation; confirm with Doña Ana County Building Services (575-647-7350) or, inside city limits, City of Las Cruces Building Services·Varies by scope; City of Las Cruces processes residential permits in 0–3 business days and commercial in 0–8 business days — confirm county timelines with Building Services

   Fees vary by project scope and valuation; confirm with Doña Ana County Building Services (575-647-7350) or, inside city limits, City of Las Cruces Building Services

   Varies by scope; City of Las Cruces processes residential permits in 0–3 business days and commercial in 0–8 business days — confirm county timelines with Building Services

Official Sources

• City of Las Cruces Development Services
• New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department — Contractor License

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