Top Safety Topics That Appear on the Law & Business Exam

Welding female worker in safety gear at industrial workshop.

When preparing for the California Contractor’s State License Law & Business exam, safety isn’t just a box to check, it’s one of the exam’s most important areas of focus. The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) puts heavy emphasis on safety for a reason. Contractors aren’t only responsible for delivering quality projects; they’re also accountable for … Read more

Can You Hold More Than One Contractor License at a Time?

Stacks of lumber in a woodworking shop.

When preparing for your California contractor license exam, it’s natural to have questions that reach beyond test prep and into real-world practice. One of the most common concerns I hear from new and experienced contractors alike is this: “Can I hold more than one contractor license at a time?” The short answer is yes, you can … Read more

Do You Need a Contractor License for Landscaping in California?

Lawn installation and landscape gardening with a person laying fresh sod on a new lawn.

If you’re preparing for your California contractor license exam and considering a career in landscaping, one of the first questions you may have is whether you actually need a license to perform landscaping work. Many new contractors assume landscaping is a lighter trade compared to masonry, plumbing, or electrical. But in California, landscaping is regulated … Read more

When Do You Need a Separate License for Specialty Work?

A skilled plumber repairing a bathroom sink with tools in a bright, modern laundry room.

Navigating the Maze of Contractor Licensing in California Stepping into the world of contracting in California is an exciting journey, brimming with opportunity and responsibility. Whether you’re a seasoned builder looking to expand your offerings or a new entrepreneur determined to build a reputable business, understanding the ins and outs of license requirements is essential, … Read more

What Are the Legal Requirements for Commercial Bids Over $1,000?

Construction supervisor discussing plans with architect or engineer on a digital tablet in a modern office setting.

Preparing for the California contractor license exam can feel daunting, especially when you consider the legal hoops involved in commercial bidding. If you plan to submit commercial bids of $1,000 or more (including materials and labor), understanding state requirements isn’t just smart, it’s necessary. Let’s break down the essentials so you can approach your exams … Read more

Do You Need a Special License to Install Solar in California?

Solar panel installation on a residential roof by professional contractors in progress.

Navigating California’s Solar Licensing Landscape For contractors eyeing California’s booming solar market, one question inevitably arises: Do you need a special license to install solar? The answer is crucial not only for passing the California license exam, but for building a sustainable business in the state’s vibrant renewable energy sector. California’s solar industry is tightly regulated to … Read more

What’s the Best Way to Find Reliable Subcontractors in 2025?

Young male construction worker measuring floor with safety helmet, working on a renovation project in an unfinished building.

Introduction Stepping into the world of construction as a licensed contractor in California means more than reading blueprints and navigating building codes, it’s about building teams you can trust. With the construction industry in 2025 facing worker shortages and an ever-greater emphasis on project delivery, mastering the art of finding reliable subcontractors is no longer … Read more

Can You Apply for a CSLB License With Experience as a Foreman or Lead?

Safe construction worker with a hard hat and safety vest inspecting a red steel beam on a construction site.

Embarking on the journey to become a licensed California contractor can be both exciting and daunting. If you’ve been working as a foreman or lead on construction sites, you may be wondering whether your experience counts toward the requirements set out by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Understanding how your experience fits into CSLB’s … Read more

Should You Take the Trade Exam First or the Law & Business Exam?

Construction worker inspecting wooden roof framework during residential building process.

Two Exams, One Big Decision Earning your California contractor’s license is a huge milestone; a sign that you’ve moved from apprentice or journeyman to a true professional ready to operate your own business. But before you can call yourself “licensed,” there are two major hurdles to clear: the Law & Business Exam and the Trade … Read more