Evening classes in a rented room

Adults who work during the day and want a new skill, hobby or career boost. Some are retirees and some are small business owners.

A fee per student for each course, usually paid upfront when they register. You earn more by filling more seats per class and by running several courses a term.

• Strong knowledge of the subject you teach
• Clear, patient teaching
• Organizing schedules and registrations
• Basic marketing to local groups

• General liability insurance, which many venues require before they will rent to you
• Whether your state requires approval for schools that teach job or career skills. Hobby classes are often treated differently, so check with your state's education or licensing agency
• A local business license and sales tax rules for course fees, which vary by city, county and state
• Room rental costs are due even if few students sign up, so set a minimum enrollment before you commit
• Your own credentials if you teach anything people rely on for work, such as tax or safety topics

Startup costs are typically around $500 to $2,500, depending on your subject, supplies and how much room rental you pay up front. These are estimates only. Room rental is due even if few students sign up, so set a minimum enrollment first.

Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on your course fees, class sizes and how many courses you run. These are estimates, not guarantees. A minimum of about 6 hours a week is a realistic starting point.

Check general liability insurance, which many venues require, and whether your state requires approval for schools teaching job or career skills. Also check local business license and sales tax rules for course fees, which vary by city, county and state.