In the skilled trades, versatility can be a powerful asset. Many professionals consider expanding their qualifications by getting certified in more than one trade—such as combining plumbing and HVAC, or electrical and general contracting. But is this strategy right for you?
At @HomePrep, we support trade professionals at every stage of their careers, and we often get questions like: “Is it worth it to get certified in multiple trades?” In this blog, we’ll explore the advantages and drawbacks so you can make a smart decision for your career goals, workload, and income potential.
What It Means to Be Multi-Certified
Getting certified in multiple trades means you’ve passed the required licensing exams (and any continuing education requirements) for more than one discipline. This could include:
- A general contractor also licensed for HVAC or plumbing.
- An electrician certified to install solar systems.
- A tradesperson holding both a specialty and business license.
It’s a growing trend among professionals looking to diversify their income streams, offer full-service solutions, or break into high-demand specialties.
Pros of Getting Certified in Multiple Trades
1. Expanded Job Opportunities
Having more than one license opens the door to a broader range of projects. Instead of turning down work that falls outside your primary trade, you can legally accept more complex or multi-phase jobs.
✅ Example: A contractor licensed in both general construction and HVAC can bid on full renovation projects without needing to subcontract the HVAC portion.
2. Higher Earning Potential
Multi-certified professionals often command higher rates because of the convenience and value they bring to a job site.
- You can bill for multiple services.
- You reduce subcontracting costs.
- Clients may be willing to pay more for a single expert who can do it all.
3. Greater Independence
With multiple licenses, you rely less on subcontractors and other trade partners. This can simplify project timelines, reduce liability, and give you more control over project quality.
4. More Resilience in a Shifting Market
If demand for one trade slows (due to economic cycles, seasonality, or regulations), having another trade license helps you pivot. For example, HVAC work may slow in spring, but general repair and electrical upgrades stay steady year-round.
5. Better Positioning for Business Owners
If you plan to launch or grow a contracting business, multiple certifications can:
- Enhance your company’s service offering.
- Allow you to take on larger or more diverse projects.
- Give your business a competitive edge.
Cons of Getting Certified in Multiple Trades
1. More Time and Cost to Get Licensed
Each trade comes with its own licensing exam, fees, books, and possible educational or experience requirements.
- Prep time and test scheduling may overlap.
- Application fees, CE courses, and insurance requirements add up.
@HomePrep makes this easier by offering bundled, state-specific exam prep courses and CE tracking—but the upfront investment is still something to consider.
2. Increased Continuing Education Requirements
Each license must be kept current, which usually means fulfilling CE hours and renewal paperwork. Managing deadlines for multiple licenses can become complex.
Tip: Use @HomePrep’s 24/7 online CE access to stay on top of your renewal schedule.
3. Risk of Burnout or Overextension
Expanding into multiple trades can spread your time and energy thin—especially if you’re a one-person operation.
- Will you still have time to manage client relationships?
- Are you willing to delegate or hire help as your workload grows?
Trying to do everything yourself may compromise the quality of your work or customer service.
4. Liability and Insurance Complexity
Operating under multiple licenses may require different forms of insurance or bonding depending on your state or project scope.
You may need to:
- Increase your liability coverage.
- Obtain additional contractor bonds.
- Update your business structure or accounting practices.
When It Makes Sense to Expand
Consider pursuing a second (or third) license if:
- You frequently refer out work you could do yourself with certification.
- You’re hitting income ceilings in your current trade.
- You’re planning to grow a business and want to offer bundled services.
- You’re passionate about learning and improving your professional skillset.
It may not be the right move if:
- You’re still building experience in your first trade.
- You’re struggling to keep up with licensing and CE requirements.
- You lack the capital to invest in additional exams, insurance, or tools.
How to Get Started
If you’re considering expanding your certifications, follow these steps:
1. Check Your State’s Requirements
Each trade and state has its own rules. Start by visiting your state licensing board or browsing @HomePrep’s trade-specific exam guides.
2. Choose Strategic Licenses
Select certifications that align with your current projects or future business goals. For example:
- A general contractor might add electrical or plumbing.
- An HVAC tech could pursue solar or mechanical certifications.
3. Use Bundled Exam Prep Courses
At @HomePrep, we offer self-paced, online prep for business & law, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and contractor licenses—state-specific and always up-to-date.
4. Plan for CE and Renewal
Create a calendar or system to track CE hours, license renewals, and exam dates. Our dashboard makes this easier with automatic reminders and downloadable certificates.
Final Takeaway
Getting certified in multiple trades can significantly increase your value, flexibility, and income—but it also comes with additional responsibilities and time investment.
The right move depends on your goals, resources, and current stage in your trade career.
At @HomePrep, we’re here to help every step of the way:
👉 Explore exam prep and continuing education courses for all major trades at athomeprep.com
👉 Study on your schedule, get licensed, and stay compliant—all in one place.
Build your skills. Expand your business. Maximize your career potential with @HomePrep.
