Bulletproof Handyman

What Can a Handyman Do Without a License in Clovis, Curry County, New Mexico?

By , Founder of Bulletproof Handyman · Last reviewed July 2026

In Clovis, New Mexico, handymen can work without a state contractor license if they earn less than $7,200 per year in compensation and perform casual, minor, inconsequential work (like painting, drywall repair, carpentry). However, this exemption does NOT cover electrical, plumbing, or gas fitting work—those trades always require separate CID licenses regardless of job value. All businesses must register with the City of Clovis ($35/year for home-based) and obtain a New Mexico State Tax ID (free). Work above the exemption threshold requires a CID contractor license ($30 application + $100-$250 exam + $50-$100 annual renewal) and a $10,000 Consumer Protection Bond.

The magic number in NM: $7,200. Jobs under $7,200 (labor + materials combined) don't require a contractor license — you can take those as a handyman. Jobs at or above $7,200 require a contractor license. Know your number, know your limit.

✅ What You Can Do Without a License

Common Jobs Handymen Take in Clovis

Based on the NM threshold, handymen in Clovis commonly take on:

⚠️ What Requires a License

What to Tell Clients About Your Scope of Work

In NM, you can take jobs under $7,200 (labor + materials) without a contractor license. When a client asks, be straightforward: for jobs under this threshold, you're operating legally as a handyman. For larger projects, refer them to a licensed contractor or get licensed before bidding that work.

Business License — Clovis

Required. City of Clovis Business Registration (Home Business Registration or Commercial Business Registration)

Setting Up Your Business in NM

To get paid professionally and protect yourself, register your business. LLC filing fee in NM: $50 (one-time). You'll also need a free EIN from the IRS and a business checking account.

Your Next Steps to Operating Legally in Clovis

  1. Step 1: Determine if your work exceeds the $7,200 annual exemption threshold. If you will earn less than $7,200/year and perform only casual, minor, inconsequential work (NOT electrical, plumbing, or HVAC), you may operate under the exemption. Otherwise, proceed to Step 2.
  2. Step 2: Register for a New Mexico Business Tax ID at https://tap.state.nm.us (free). This is required before you can legally operate and is required for CID licensing.
  3. Step 3: If work exceeds exemption or involves trades, apply for a CID Contractor License: (a) Gather work experience documentation; (b) Submit application to CID with $30 application fee; (c) Schedule and pass CID exam (fee: $65-$250 depending on license type); (d) Obtain $10,000 Consumer Protection Bond; (e) Pay initial license fee ($150-$300); (f) Receive license (valid 3 years).
  4. Step 4: Register with the City of Clovis: (a) Complete City Business Registration form; (b) Provide NM Tax ID and CID License number (if applicable); (c) Pay $35/year for home-based business or verify commercial rate; (d) Receive city registration.
  5. Step 5: Obtain general liability insurance ($300-$800/year typical). Many customers require proof of insurance.
  6. Step 6: For each project, determine if permits are required. Contact City of Clovis Building Department at (575) 762-3728 to verify permit requirements before starting work.
  7. Step 7: If work involves tribal land or federal property, contact the appropriate authority (tribal council, Cannon AFB Contracting Office, or SAM.gov) for additional requirements.
  8. Step 8: Maintain compliance: File gross receipts tax returns on schedule, renew CID license every 3 years, maintain insurance, and keep detailed records of all work performed.

Licensing rules and fees change over time, so this information may be out of date. Verify all requirements with your local licensing authority before making business decisions.