Handyman Business Permit Requirements in Nashville, TN

Complete permit and license guide for starting a handyman business in Nashville, Davidson County, Tennessee.

Updated 2026-02-15 3 stops $100–$600 est. 4–8 weeks if pursuing state Home Improvement license
Get my personalized route — $14.99

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Tennessee

1 stop

  1. Tennessee Home Improvement Contractor License (for projects $3,000–$24,999 in Davidson County)

    Tennessee requires a state Home Improvement Contractor license for residential remodeling or repair projects valued between $3,000 and $24,999 in Davidson County (Nashville's county). Projects under $3,000 do not require a state license. Projects over $25,000 require a General Contractor license. The Home Improvement license requires: a $250 initial application fee, a $55 exam fee per exam, proof of financial responsibility ($10,000 minimum bond or equivalent), and general liability insurance ($100,000 minimum).

    Official government source

    $250–$400 (application + exam fees)4–8 weeks

City of Nashville / Davidson County

1 stop

  1. Nashville Metro Business License

    All businesses operating in Nashville-Davidson County must obtain a Metro Business License from the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County. This applies to home-based handyman businesses. The fee is based on gross receipts.

    Official government source

    $15 (minimal gross receipts) to $100+/year1–2 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $100–$600 · 4–8 weeks if pursuing state Home Improvement license

Want this mapped to your exact business and structure, in filing order?

Get my personalized route — $14.99

Official Sources

Related Guides