Renewing Your Contractor License: What You Need to Know

Hello, contractors! Keeping your contractor license current is essential for maintaining your business’s legal standing and reputation. In California, the CSLB requires contractors to renew their licenses periodically. Let’s go over what you need to know about renewing your contractor license and ensure you stay compliant.

Renewing Your Contractor License: What You Need to Know

Hello, contractors! Keeping your contractor license current is essential for maintaining your business’s legal standing and reputation. In California, the CSLB requires contractors to renew their licenses periodically. Let’s go over what you need to know about renewing your contractor license and ensure you stay compliant.

When to Renew Your License

  • Renewal Period: The CSLB requires contractors to renew their licenses every two years.
  • Expiration Date: Your license expires on the last day of the month in which it was issued. For example, if your license was issued on March 15, it will expire on March 31, two years later.
  • Early Renewal: The CSLB allows you to renew your license up to 60 days before the expiration date.

How to Renew Your License

  • Receive the Renewal Application: The CSLB will send you a renewal application approximately 60 days before your license expiration date. If you don’t receive it, you can download it from the CSLB website or contact their office.
  • Complete the Application: Fill out the renewal application carefully, providing all required information. Make sure to update any changes in your address, business name, or personnel.
  • Pay the Renewal Fee: The current renewal fee for an active license is $450. If you miss the renewal deadline, you can still renew your license within 90 days by paying an additional delinquency fee of $225. After 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a new license.
  • Submit the Application: Send the completed application and payment to the CSLB. You can mail it or submit it online through the CSLB’s website.

Requirements for Renewal

  • Continuing Education: Some classifications require proof of continuing education or certification. Make sure you meet these requirements before submitting your renewal.
  • Worker’s Compensation Insurance: If you have employees, you must provide proof of worker’s compensation insurance coverage.
  • Bond Renewal: Ensure your contractor’s bond is up to date. The bond amount is typically $15,000, but verify the current requirements with the CSLB.

Tips for a Smooth Renewal Process

  • Set Reminders: Mark your calendar with important renewal dates to avoid missing deadlines.
  • Keep Records: Maintain copies of all renewal documents, including the application, payment receipts, and correspondence with the CSLB.
  • Check for Updates: Regularly check the CSLB website for any changes in renewal requirements or fees.

What Happens if Your License Expires

  • Inactive Status: If you don’t renew your license on time, it will become inactive. You won’t be able to legally contract for work until it’s renewed.
  • Reinstatement: If your license has been expired for more than 90 days but less than five years, you can apply for reinstatement by submitting a renewal application and paying all delinquent fees.
  • New Application: If your license has been expired for more than five years, you’ll need to apply for a new license, including passing the exams again.

Conclusion

Renewing your contractor license is crucial for maintaining your business’s legal standing and continuing to operate in California. By understanding the renewal process, meeting all requirements, and staying on top of deadlines, you can ensure a smooth renewal and avoid any interruptions in your contracting work. Good luck, and keep your business running smoothly!

This entry was posted in Contractor Business, Contractor Jobs, Tips on by .

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.