Preparing for the California contractor license exam is a major milestone in any builder’s career. Among the many details you’ll juggle (study schedules, application deadlines, and test-day logistics), one requirement stands out as deceptively simple yet absolutely essential: bringing the right identification to the exam center. As we move into 2025, with new regulations and … Read more
Whether you’re preparing for your California contractor license exam or a newly licensee contractor, you’ve probably heard that contracts are a big deal. But do you know exactly when state law requires you to put your agreement in writing? The answer might surprise you, and it’s crucial for both passing your exam and protecting your … Read more
The Foundation of a Successful Contracting Business If you’re preparing for your California contractor license exam, you’re probably focused on codes, regulations, and trade skills. But there’s another crucial element that often gets overlooked by new contractors: bookkeeping. You might be asking yourself, “Do I really need a bookkeeping system if I’m just starting out?” … Read more
Introduction If you’re preparing for the California contractor license exam, you may be wondering if your years spent working in the family business count toward the experience requirements. This is a common question, especially among those who grew up helping out in a parent’s construction company or took on increasing responsibilities in a family-run operation. … Read more
Preparing for the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) exam is a significant milestone for any aspiring contractor. For some, the journey includes navigating the process of requesting special accommodations to ensure a fair testing environment. Whether you have a documented disability, a temporary medical condition, or another qualifying need, understanding how to request accommodations … Read more
Demystifying the 20% Rule If you’re preparing for your California contractor license exam, you’ve likely come across the term “CSLB 20% Rule.” This regulation, set by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB), plays a pivotal role in determining who can act as the qualifying individual for a contractor’s license, especially when it comes to partnerships, … Read more
Introduction If you’re a California contractor preparing for your license exam, you’re likely focused on technical knowledge and business law. But what happens when your business grows and you want to bring a partner on board? Understanding how to add a business partner to your Contractors State License Board (CSLB) license is crucial, not just … Read more
Preparing for the California contractor license exam means mastering not just the technical aspects of construction, but also the legal frameworks that govern your work. One area that often trips up even seasoned professionals is the mandatory arbitration clause. Understanding how these clauses work, when they’re required, and how to draft them correctly is essential—not … Read more
Introduction Preparing for the California contractor license exam is a major milestone in any construction professional’s career. But what happens if you don’t have a traditional supervisor to verify your work experience? This is a common concern, especially for self-employed contractors, owner-builders, or those who have worked in less conventional settings. The good news is … Read more
Breaking out on your own after years on a construction crew is both exciting and daunting. You know the work, but running a business is a whole new job. For many California tradespeople, the dream of owning a contracting company is within reach if you take the right steps, prepare for the state license exam, … Read more