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
California offers 43+ contractor license classifications. Choose the one that matches your trade:
- 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 Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, ensure you meet these criteria:
- Age: At least 18 years old
- ID: Valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Experience: Minimum 4 years of journeyman-level experience in your trade within the last 10 years
Education Credit: Relevant college coursework or trade school can substitute for up to 3 years of experience (minimum 1 year hands-on still required).
3 Submit Your Application
Complete the Application for Original Contractor License from CSLB:
- Fill out all required sections accurately
- Include Certification of Work Experience forms signed by employers
- Submit with $450 application fee (non-refundable)
- Allow 4-6 weeks for initial processing
4 Complete Fingerprinting & Background Check
After application approval:
- Schedule Live Scan fingerprinting at an authorized location
- Cost: Approximately $49-59
- Results sent directly to CSLB for background check
- Criminal history is reviewed but doesn't automatically disqualify
5 Pass the CSLB Examinations
You must pass two examinations:
| Exam | Questions | Time | Topics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Law & Business | 115 questions | 3.5 hours | California construction law, contracts, safety, business management |
| Trade Exam | 100 questions | 3.5 hours | Technical knowledge specific to your classification |
Pass Rate: About 50% without preparation. With proper exam prep, pass rates exceed 90%.
6 Obtain Required Bond & Insurance
Before your license is issued:
- 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)
- General Liability: Not required by CSLB but highly recommended
7 Receive Your License
Final steps:
- Pay the $200 initial license fee
- Receive your contractor license number
- Verify your license status at CSLB.ca.gov
- License must be renewed every 2 years
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