Handyman Business Permit Requirements in Dallas, TX

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. Texas — No State Handyman License Required (Under Threshold)

   Texas does not require a general contractor or handyman license for most repair and maintenance work. Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work always require separate trade licenses regardless of project size. For larger renovation projects, consult with local building authorities.

   Official government source

   N/A·N/A

   N/A

   N/A

2. Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit

   Required if you sell materials as part of your handyman work. Labor for residential repair is generally not taxable in Texas, but materials sold to customers are taxable. Apply free through the Texas Comptroller.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online)

   Free

   Immediate (online)

1. Dallas Development Services — Contractor Registration

   Contractors who pull building permits in Dallas must register with Dallas Development Services. A handyman performing only minor repairs that do not require a permit does not need contractor registration; structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing work requires permits pulled by appropriately licensed/registered contractors (state law bars cities from charging registration fees to state-licensed electricians and plumbers).

   Official government source

   Registration fee varies -- see the Dallas Development Services fee schedule; $0 for state-licensed trade contractors' license registration·1–2 weeks

   Registration fee varies -- see the Dallas Development Services fee schedule; $0 for state-licensed trade contractors' license registration

   1–2 weeks

2. Dallas County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)

   Required if operating under a business name other than your legal personal name. Filed with the Dallas County Clerk. Valid for 10 years.

   Official government source

   $23 ($0.50 for each additional owner; $2 acknowledgment fee if a deputy takes the acknowledgment instead of a notary)·Same day to 1 week

   $23 ($0.50 for each additional owner; $2 acknowledgment fee if a deputy takes the acknowledgment instead of a notary)

   Same day to 1 week

Official Sources

• City of Dallas — Development Services
• Dallas County Clerk
• Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation

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