Riverside Handyman / Home Contractor License Requirements (2026)

📋 Your checklist

State

1. California contractor license (CSLB) — when needed
   Needed for any job of $1,000 or more in labor and materials, any job needing a building permit, or any job using employees. Jobs can't be split to stay under the limit.
   ⏰ Active licenses expire every two years (verify your date on CSLB)
   Source: California CSLB: Who needs a contractor license · California CSLB: General renewal information
2. Secretary of State and Franchise Tax Board filings
   LLCs and corporations file a Statement of Information ($20 or $25) and most businesses pay at least $800 a year in Franchise Tax. A business name other than your own is filed with your county.
   ⏰ Statement of Information: frequency depends on entity type (verify). Franchise tax: yearly
   Source: California Secretary of State: Business entities FAQs

Local (Riverside / Riverside County)

1. City of Riverside Business Tax Certificate
   All persons conducting business in the city, including independent contractors, home businesses and businesses based outside Riverside, must register and pay before starting.
   ⏰ Paid annually, in advance, on or before your current certificate's expiration date
   Source: City of Riverside Finance: Business license FAQ