Can a Felon Get a Contractor’s License in California? A Comprehensive Overview

If you’ve ever wondered: “can a felon get a contractor’s license in California?”, you’re not alone! Construction is an attractive industry to those with criminal records, as it usually dispenses with the bureaucratic red tape you’d find when applying to desk jobs.

In addition, construction is quite simply a lucrative job that almost anyone can learn how to do quickly, so it means you can start making good amounts of money right away after getting out.

That said, there are a number of regulations and laws that all contractors have to follow to perform construction work in California – in addition to all the hoops you may have to jump through as a felon.

Not In this article, we’ll walk through some of the finer points of getting your contractor’s license as a convicted felon.

CSLB Background Checks

There is one problem for felons looking to get their contractor’s license in California, and it’s called the California Contractors State Licensing Board (CSLB). 

In California, the CSLB is responsible for regulating and licensing contractors. If you’re doing construction in California for more than $500, you need a license. That’s anyone working in construction, from general contractors to painters.  If you’re doing 

While having a criminal history can create challenges, it’s essential to understand the specific regulations and requirements that apply to those seeking a contractor’s license in the state. 

By being aware of these guidelines and taking the appropriate steps, individuals with a felony record may still qualify for a license.

Can a Felon Obtain a Contractor’s License in California?

In short, yes, a felon can obtain a contractor’s license in California!

It’s important to note that the CSLB doesn’t accept all former felons into the ranks of licensed contractors. The good news is that the CSLB rejects less than 1% of all contractors who have been convicted of a crime – so chances are, if you’re reading this, you’ll most likely be able to still get your license.

The CSLB applies a number of factors as to whether your application will be accepted or rejected as a convicted felon. The things the CSLB considers when deciding include:

  1. Nature and severity of the crime: The type of crime committed and its gravity. As you may expect, more serious crimes will be handled more harshly.
  2. Time elapsed since the crime: The amount of time that has passed since the conviction may also be considered. The more time that has elapsed, the better the chances of obtaining a license.
  3. Evidence of rehabilitation: Rehabilitation – such as completing a rehabilitation program or demonstrating good behavior or simply following the orders from the court – can positively impact an applicant’s chances of obtaining a license. Make sure to provide proof of any rehabilitation programs to the CSLB.
  4. Relation of the crime to the duties and responsibilities of a contractor: If the crime committed is directly related to the role of a contractor, the CSLB will be more likely to reject your application.

Steps for Felons to Obtain a Contractor’s License in California

For individuals with a felony record who wish to apply for a contractor’s license, the following steps can help increase their chances of success:

  1. Review your criminal record: Before applying, review your criminal record to ensure its accuracy and address any discrepancies.
  2. Gather supporting documents: Collect documents that demonstrate your rehabilitation, such as certificates of completion for rehabilitation programs or letters of recommendation.
  3. Complete the required application: Fill out the necessary application forms2 and include all required documents.
  4. Submit your application: Submit your application to the CSLB, along with the appropriate fees and supporting documentation.

The CSLB Application and The Fingerprinting Process

As part of your application to become a licensed contractor, you will be required to submit to a fingerprint check. You will also be asked to disclose any prior convictions.

Always be honest with your answers throughout this process. The CSLB is clear that if you have hidden prior convictions that are revealed by the CSLB background check, you may have your application rejected.

However, there are some situations where the CSLB says you should not disclose prior convictions. Here are the situations where you should keep that information private:

  • Convictions that were adjudicated in a juvenile court;  
  • Convictions under California Health and Safety Code §11357 (b), (c), (d), or (e) or §11360 (b) that are two years old or older;  
  • Under certain circumstances, some arrests/convictions relating to specified marijuana offenses that occurred prior to January 1, 1976, as provided in Health and Safety Code §11361.5 (b);
  • Under certain circumstances, some arrests/convictions relating to specified drug offenses as provided in Penal Code §1000.

You can find more information about disclosure in this CSLB news release.

Be Smart, Be Strategic

While having a criminal record may present challenges, it’s essential to remember that opportunities still exist for those with a felony record in the construction industry in spades. It’s an industry that is always in demand, and your skills can be put to good use. 

By understanding the licensing requirements and taking the necessary steps, felons can get licensed quickly and efficiently – even as quickly as non-felons. Be honest throughout the process and most likely you will have no issues.

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About CSLS

Contractors State License Service (CSLS) is the largest school in California devoted to the Construction professional. For over 23 years, CSLS has helped its students pass the exam to become licensed contractors in the State of California, licensing more students than any other school. From our main offices in Southern California, CSLS operates over 25 locations with full-service support and classrooms. We have grown to this extent by providing quality, professional services. In comparison, this provides 7 times the number of convenient locations than the second largest contractor school. Contractors State License Services is one of the only contractor schools in the state that is run by educators, not lawyers or people mostly interested in the bonding and insurance business. Contractors State License Services formerly operated under the oversight of the State of California's Bureau for Private Post Secondary and Vocational Education. As of January 1 2010, the new Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE) came into existence replacing the BPPVE. CSLS now operates under the provisions of the California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009 (CPPEA), Article 4 Section 94874(f). Our Mission is simple; We can help you pass your California Contractors License Exam. Celebrating our 25th year, CSLS has helped over 120,000 students pass the California contractor licensing exam to become licensed contractors in the State of California. Additionally, we offer complete home study and online contractor’s license programs to help you pass your California contractors license exam. CSLS offers licensing classes for all types of contractor licenses, including General Engineering Contractor, General Building Contractor, Specialty Contractor, Insulation and Acoustical Contractor, Framing and Rough Carpentry Contractor, Cabinet, Millwork and Finish Carpentry Contractor, Concrete Contractor, Drywall Contractor, Electrical Contractor, Elevator Contractor, Landscaping Contractor, Warm-Air Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning Contractor, and many others. For a complete list of contractor licenses, visit www.MakeMeAContractor.com and tuned for more informative posts.