When it comes to doing contracting work in California, there are few more common words than these three: “general contractor license.”
As by far the most popular contractor license classification in the state – with over 300,000 Class B license holders – becoming a general contractor is a highly desired and highly lucrative career path for many in the state.
But can anyone get a Class B General Contractor license from the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) – and become a licensed general contractor?
In this article, we’ll take a look at whether just anyone can become a GC in California – and the steps you need to take to get there.
The Journey From Apprentice To General Contractor
So, can anyone become a general contractor?
Maybe you know someone else who went after it and successfully obtained their general contractor license. Maybe you’re the first person you know to even try. In any case, taking on this significant milestone can be satisfying and rewarding – financially, professionally, and personally.
The beauty of a career as a general contractor is that anyone can become a general contractor if they’re willing to put in the time and effort to learn the trade. Yes, even you. With no traditional school requirements – only on-the-job experience – becoming a GC is a great way to make good money in a stable industry.
However, there is a long journey ahead – a journey that is, in many ways, much more difficult than the cushy classrooms of a university. Every contractor must complete four years’ worth of journeyman experience in their given trade to even be eligible to apply for their license. For general contractors, that means they must do 4 years’ worth of journeyman work as a general contractor!
An apprenticeship with a general contractor can also pay dividends massively by allowing you to only need three years’ work experience as an apprentice – plus one year of journeyman experience.
Becoming an apprentice or journeyman is critical for your path to becoming a general contractor. In many ways, it’s a lot like a four-year university – except in this case, you’re getting paid to learn your future job!
Review And Understand The Eligibility Requirements
Before you apply for your general contractor license, you must make sure that you meet the eligibility requirements set by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB).
In order to get a Class B License, applicants must meet the following requirements. In some cases – such as situations where an applicant has a criminal record – you may be required to meet other, more rigorous standards to even apply for a general contractor license.
Here are the basic requirements to become a general contractor:
- Be 18 or older.
- Have a valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer ID.
- Have at least four years of work experience as a journeyman working as a general contractor
- OR have three years’ apprenticeship experience and one year of on-the-job training
- Pass the CSLB exam
Prep for The CSLB Exam
Besides the rigorous four-year training period for all contractors, the other most difficult part of becoming a general contractor is passing the notoriously rigorous CSLB exam. This two-part exam, covering both general contractor knowledge and contractor law and business respectively, has broken many contractors in their pursuit of licensure.
With a stunning 130+ questions, we suggest enrolling in exam prep courses and using study materials provided by the CSLB. You can also find practice exams online to help you gauge your level of readiness. Either way, practice and preparation are critical for saving time, money, and energy.
Submit Your Application
If you meet the experience requirements and pass your exam, then congratulations! You’re past the worst stuff. You can apply online through the CSLB website!
You can submit your application online, or you can submit a physical application instead if that is your preference. Make sure you complete all required sections accurately!
Get Bonded and Insured
In California, it is required for general contractors to secure a contractor’s bond and liability insurance for themselves.
All general contractors are required to have a contractor’s bond – a financial guarantee that you will fulfill contractual obligations on your side. Most GCs will also have to have liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance, which protects you financially in case of accidents or damages on the job site.
Be advised that your license will not be approved unless you provide proof of and maintain sufficient bonding and insurance coverage throughout your career.
Pay The Fees
Our least favorite section rears its ugly head once again! You must pay any and all fees to the CSLB before you can receive a general contractor’s license (or any contractor license for that matter!).
Take a look at the current fee schedule on the CSLB website and determine which fees pertain to your chosen license classification. Check this information carefully and submit your payment with your application.
Prepare for Your Interview If Applicable
In some cases, the CSLB may request an interview. This part of the process is meant for reviewing your qualifications and past business experience. If this requirement applies to you, do not sweat it.
Look over the detailed record of your work history that you prepared and practice natural ways to reinforce your commitment to your work as a contractor. This part of the process can only help you better your chances of landing a positive result.
Receive Your License And Stay Compliant!
Congratulations! You’ve put in the hard hours, done the diligence, studied your buns off, passed the exam, paid the fees, and finally – finally! – you’re a licensed, bonded, and insured Class B General Contractor.
Receiving your Class B license is a massive milestone in your career and your life. With a Class B license, you can take on almost any job, of any size, and build a new life for yourself and your family.
With that in mind, it’s critical that you don’t stop here and rest on your laurels. Sure, you have your license now, but contractors’ licenses are only valid for 2-3 years. It’s important that you stay on top of your education, resources and more so that your Class B license stays valid throughout your career as a general contractor.
Best of luck to you on your journey!
Can Felons Get A General Contractor License?
While this is a complex question that varies based on every situation, the answer is yes – many felons can qualify for a CSLB Class B license, but the path to get there is different from the typical way.
Check out our article on this topic for a more in-depth guide on this topic.