California Handyman Cap & Advertising Rule
The Key Rule in California:
Allows up to $1,000 (labor + materials) ONLY if no building permit is required and you hire zero employees. Ads must state you are not a licensed contractor.
Allows up to $1,000 (labor + materials) ONLY if no building permit is required and you hire zero employees. Ads must state you are not a licensed contractor.
Cheapest Legal Registration Path: CSLB Class B-2 Residential Remodeling or C-Specialty License
Estimated Year-1 Cost: $450 App Fee + ~$195/yr Surety Bond ($25,000 CSLB Contractor Bond)
Note on Project Quotes: All 50-state handyman cap rules, permit calculators, and checklists are free nationwide. Direct contractor project estimates are available in Cowlitz & Clark County, WA only; out-of-area visitors can compare national pros via Angi, Thumbtack, or HomeAdvisor on our main hub.
Frequently Asked Questions (California)
1. How much can an unlicensed handyman legally charge in California?
In California (CA B&P Code § 7048 (AB 2622)), the unlicensed handyman threshold is: $1,000 (Raised from $500 under AB 2622). Allows up to $1,000 (labor + materials) ONLY if no building permit is required and you hire zero employees. Ads must state you are not a licensed contractor.
2. What is the cheapest way to become a legal bonded handyman/contractor in California?
The fastest path is CSLB Class B-2 Residential Remodeling or C-Specialty License, with an application fee of ~$450 and a surety bond cost of ~$195/year ($25,000 CSLB Contractor Bond).