How to Decide Which Jobs to Accept When You’re Just Starting Out

A young male construction worker reading a manual or guidebook while taking a break in a bright room with large windows, wearing work overalls and surrounded by construction tools and materials.

Breaking into the construction industry as a newly licensed contractor in California is both exciting and daunting. After months of studying for the license exam, learning the ins and outs of state requirements, and finally earning your credentials, you now face the real-world test: choosing which jobs to take on. When you’re just starting out, … Read more

Top Safety Topics That Appear on the Law & Business Exam

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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

How to Legally Use Your License Number in Print and Online Ads

A man wearing safety gloves and glasses inspecting a red pickup truck outside a building for a contractor licensing blog.

When preparing for your California contractor license exam, one detail that often slips through the cracks is advertising compliance. Many future contractors spend hours mastering trade knowledge and business law, yet forget that something as simple as how you use your license number in ads can make or break your compliance with the Contractors State … 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?

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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

How to Avoid a CSLB License Suspension for Lapsed Bond Coverage

Man working on laptop in cozy home setting with coffee cup, casual smart casual attire, natural light, and warm wooden interior emphasizing professional learning at home.

Navigating the requirements of the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re preparing for your license exam or just starting out in the industry. One of the most pivotal yet commonly overlooked obligations is maintaining continuous bond coverage. A lapse in your contractor’s bond can trigger a license suspension, halt … 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