California Contractor License Requirements 2025
Everything you need to know about getting your California contractor license, from the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) requirements to exam preparation and costs.
Quick Requirements Overview
- Age: Minimum 18 years old
- Experience: 4 years journeyman-level in your trade
- Exams: Law & Business + Trade-specific
- Bond: $25,000 contractor bond required
- Application Fee: $450
- License Fee: $200
- Processing Time: 6-9 months typical
- Renewal: Every 2 years ($450)
Who Needs a California Contractor License?
You need a California contractor license if you:
- Contract to perform work on projects valued at $1,000 or more (labor and materials combined)
- Want to advertise your services as a contractor
- Bid on public works or commercial construction projects
- Subcontract to other licensed contractors
7 Steps to Get Your California Contractor License
1 Determine Your License Classification
Figure out which of the 43+ contractor license classifications fits your trade and experience:
- Class A - General Engineering: Infrastructure projects (roads, bridges, utilities)
- Class B - General Building: Structural construction projects
- Class B-2 - Residential Remodeling: Home renovations and improvements
- Class C - Specialty Contractors: Trade-specific licenses (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, etc.)
2 Decide How You'll Prepare
You have two options for preparing for your contractor license:
| Partner with a Prep School (like CSLS) | DIY / Self-Study |
|---|---|
| Expert guidance on application to avoid costly mistakes & delays | Navigate the application process on your own |
| Structured curriculum covering exactly what's on the exam | Piece together study materials yourself |
| 99% pass rate | ~50% pass rate industry average |
| Pass the first time, get licensed faster | Risk retakes, delays, and additional fees |
3 Submit Application & Complete Fingerprinting
Complete the CSLB application and fingerprinting process:
- Application Fee: $450 (non-refundable)
- Experience Documentation: Include Certification of Work Experience forms signed by employers (4 years journeyman-level experience required)
- Fingerprinting: Schedule Live Scan at an authorized location (~$49-59)
- Processing Time: 4-6 weeks for CSLB to process your application
The CSLB application process can significantly slow down your timeline if not completed properly. Learn about our Application Processing Service →
4 Study
Use the 4-6 week processing time wisely! While CSLB processes your application, prepare for your exams:
- Law & Business Exam: California construction law, contracts, safety regulations, and business management
- Trade Exam: Technical knowledge specific to your license classification
With over 40 years of experience and a 99% student success rate, CSLS has helped 200,000+ students pass their exams. Our prep options include:
- In-Class Courses: Hands-on instruction at 25+ California locations
- Online Courses: Study at your own pace from anywhere
- Crash Courses: Intensive review before exam day
5 Pass CSLB Exams
You must pass two examinations:
| Exam | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Law & Business | 115 questions | 3.5 hours |
| Trade Exam | 80-125 questions | 3.5 hours |
Pass Rate: About 50% without preparation. With proper exam prep, pass rates exceed 90%.
6 Obtain Bond & Insurance
Before your license is issued, you'll need:
- Contractor Bond: $25,000 minimum (premium costs $100-500/year based on credit)
- Workers' Compensation: Required if you have employees (or file exemption if sole proprietor)
7 Receive Your License
Pay the $200 license fee and start working!
- Receive your contractor license number
- Verify your license status at CSLB.ca.gov
- License must be renewed every 2 years ($450)
California Contractor License Costs 2025
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | $450 | Non-refundable, paid at application |
| Initial License Fee | $200 | Paid after passing exams |
| Fingerprinting (Live Scan) | $49 - $59 | Varies by location |
| Contractor Bond (Premium) | $100 - $500/year | $25,000 bond; premium based on credit |
| Exam Prep Course (Optional) | $300 - $800 | Highly recommended; increases pass rate |
| Study Materials | $50 - $200 | Books, practice exams |
| Total Initial Investment | $1,150 - $2,200+ | Varies based on choices |
Ongoing Costs
- License Renewal: $450 every 2 years
- Bond Premium: $100-500 annually
- Workers' Comp Insurance: Varies by trade and payroll
How Long Does It Take?
The typical timeline from application to license is 6-9 months:
Popular License Classifications
California offers over 43 contractor license classifications. Here are some of the most common:
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about California contractor license requirements:
How much does a California contractor license cost?
Total costs include: application fee ($450), initial license fee ($200), background check/fingerprinting (~$49-59), contractor bond ($25,000 minimum, premium varies), and optional exam prep courses ($300-800). Total investment is typically $1,500-$3,000.
When do I need a contractor license in California?
As of January 1, 2025 (AB 2622), you need a California contractor license for any project valued at $1,000 or more (combined labor and materials). This threshold was previously $500. You also need a license to advertise contractor services.
How long does it take to get a California contractor license?
The typical timeline is 6-9 months: 1-2 months for CSLB application processing, 1-3 months to prepare for and pass exams, and 1-2 months for final license issuance. Some applicants complete the process in as little as 4 months with proper preparation.
What experience do I need for a California contractor license?
You need at least 4 years of journeyman-level experience in your trade within the last 10 years. Education from accredited programs can substitute up to 3 years. Self-employment experience may qualify at CSLB discretion with proper documentation.
How hard is the CSLB contractor exam?
The CSLB exam has two parts: Law & Business (115 questions, 3.5 hours) and Trade (100 questions, 3.5 hours). Pass rate is about 50% without preparation, but jumps to 90%+ with proper exam prep courses. CSLS has a 99% pass rate.
Can I get a contractor license without experience?
No. You must have at least 4 years of verifiable journeyman-level experience. However, relevant education can substitute up to 3 years, so the minimum with education is 1 year of hands-on experience.
What bond is required for a California contractor license?
All contractors must maintain a $25,000 contractor bond. The bond premium (what you pay) typically costs $100-500/year depending on your credit. Additional bonds may be required for certain license types or disciplinary actions.
Can I work under someone else's contractor license?
You cannot "borrow" a license. You can work as an employee of a licensed contractor without your own license. To perform work independently or bid on projects, you need your own license. The license holder must supervise work bearing their license number.
What is the difference between Class A, B, and C licenses?
Class A is for general engineering (infrastructure, heavy civil). Class B is for general building construction (structures). Class C licenses are specialty trades (C-10 Electrical, C-36 Plumbing, etc.). You need the license matching your work scope.
How do I renew my California contractor license?
Licenses renew every 2 years. Renewal fee is $450. You must maintain your bond and workers' comp insurance (if required). Renewals can be done online at CSLB.ca.gov up to 90 days before expiration. Late renewals incur additional fees.
Additional Resources