Ceramic tile is attractive and low-cost. Since you can usually replace tiles very easily when they break, most homeowners prefer to do this themselves with their bathrooms and kitchens. As a tile installer, you must be experienced in installing a variety of tiles and have a good knowledge base regarding floor preparation and installation. In any U.S. state, you will need to obtain a license for the tile business.

Things You Will Need

  • State tax number

  • Business name

  • Construction-related degree

Decide the legal structure of your business, whether it is a franchise, sole ownership, limited liability corporation or any other. Register the business with your Secretary of State.

Obtain the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) and Employer Identification Number (EIN) for your business through the IRS website and filling Form W-7 and Form SS-4 respectively or visiting the IRS website at IRS.gov.

Obtain a State Tax Number, since you will have employees and want to open a business bank account. Look into your state’s Department of Revenue, or check the link under the "Resources" section for taxation details.

Obtain a business name from your County clerk office. Ensure that the name is unique and no one else has the rights to the name.

Obtain the necessary business licenses and permits from your state.

Get a construction-related degree from an accredited college. Complete one year of training or get experience in the construction, especially in the installation of tiles. Learn to prepare and install ceramic flooring, the maximum spacing between floor joists, to waterproof the substrate and other construction-related knowledge.

Decide what service you will offer. You can become a ceramic tile specialist, ceramic tile installer, ceramic stone maintenance specialist or prepare Ceramic Tile Institute of America (CTIOA) Field Reports. The certifications vary for each. Choose one and get the necessary certification.

Pass the examination conducted by your state to obtain the title of ceramic and mosaic tile contractor. For example, in California, your examination consists of parts such as planning and estimating, tile and stone rough preparation, finish installation and repairs and worker and job-site safety. You may also have a hands-on test.

Fill all applications and submit them to the respective departments.

Tip

Include all documentation for all related coursework and experience for easier verification.