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B-2 – Residential Remodeling Contractor License

Contractors License Exam Preparation: B-2 Residential Remodeling

Ready to become a licensed residential remodeling contractor in California? The B-2 classification is perfect for contractors who specialize in home renovations, kitchen remodels, bathroom upgrades, and residential improvement projects. Whether you're upgrading from unlicensed work or transitioning from another trade, CSLS provides the exam preparation you need to pass your CSLB exams.

With over 40 years of experience and a 99% pass rate, Contractors State License Schools has helped thousands of California contractors get their B-2 license. We offer flexible learning options including in-person classes at 25+ locations, online courses, and intensive crash courses.

What Is a B-2 Contractor License?

Official CSLB Definition

Business and Professions Code Section 7057.5:

"A residential remodeling contractor is a contractor whose principal contracting business is in connection with any project to make improvements to, on, or in an existing residential wood frame structure, and the project requires the use of at least three unrelated building trades or crafts. The work included within this classification shall not include the structural alteration of any load-bearing wall."

The B-2 license is specifically designed for contractors who focus on renovating and remodeling existing residential homes. Unlike the B (General Building) license, the B-2 is limited to improvement projects on residential wood frame structures and cannot include new construction.

Work You CAN Perform with a B-2 License

  • Kitchen remodels – Cabinet installation, countertops, flooring, lighting, plumbing fixtures
  • Bathroom renovations – Tile work, vanities, showers, tubs, electrical, plumbing
  • Room additions – Non-structural additions to existing homes
  • Interior renovations – Flooring, drywall, painting, electrical updates
  • Home improvement projects – Any remodel requiring 3+ unrelated trades
  • Window and door replacement – As part of larger remodel projects
  • Energy efficiency upgrades – Insulation, windows, HVAC as part of remodel

Work You CANNOT Perform with a B-2 License

  • New construction – Building new homes or structures from the ground up
  • Structural changes – Alterations to load-bearing walls require a B license
  • Commercial buildings – B-2 is strictly for residential properties
  • Single-trade work – Must involve at least three unrelated trades
  • C-16 Fire Protection – Requires separate specialty license
  • C-57 Well Drilling – Requires separate specialty license
  • Non-wood frame structures – Steel, concrete, or masonry buildings

B vs B-2 License: Which Should You Get?

One of the most common questions prospective contractors ask is whether they should pursue a B (General Building) or B-2 (Residential Remodeling) license. Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide:

Feature B - General Building B-2 - Residential Remodeling
New Construction ✓ Yes ✗ No
Commercial Buildings ✓ Yes ✗ No
Residential Remodeling ✓ Yes ✓ Yes
Structural Changes ✓ Yes ✗ No (load-bearing walls)
Building Types All building types Wood frame residential only
Trade Requirement 2+ unrelated trades 3+ unrelated trades
Exam Difficulty Similar Similar

Our Recommendation

Since the B and B-2 exams are similar in difficulty and the licensing fees are the same, many contractors choose the B license for maximum flexibility. However, if you're certain you'll only work on residential remodeling projects and want exam questions focused specifically on residential work, the B-2 may be right for you.

Learn more about the B General Building license →

B-2 License Exam Preparation

Trade Exam Topics

The B-2 trade exam focuses on residential remodeling knowledge and consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. Key topics include:

  • Residential construction methods – Wood frame construction, materials, techniques
  • California Building Code – Residential code requirements, permits, inspections
  • Remodeling project management – Scheduling, coordination, subcontractor management
  • Blueprint reading – Residential plans, specifications, symbols
  • Estimating and bidding – Cost calculations, labor, materials, profit margins
  • Safety and OSHA requirements – Residential jobsite safety, fall protection, PPE
  • Contract administration – Home improvement contracts, change orders
  • Energy efficiency – Title 24, insulation requirements, energy codes

Available Course Options

CSLS offers multiple ways to prepare for your B-2 license exams:

In-School Classes

Live instruction at 25+ California locations with hands-on learning and instructor Q&A.

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Online Course

Study at your own pace with our comprehensive online program. Access anytime, anywhere.

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Home Study

Complete study materials delivered to your door. Perfect for self-directed learners.

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Crash Course

Intensive exam prep for experienced professionals. Get licensed fast.

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B-2 License Requirements

Experience Requirements

To qualify for a B-2 Residential Remodeling contractor license, you must demonstrate:

  • 4 years of journeyman-level experience – Must be in residential remodeling work
  • Experience must be verifiable – W-2s, 1099s, or certified statements from employers
  • Education substitution available – Accredited construction programs can substitute for up to 3 years
  • Technical training credits – Apprenticeship programs may count toward experience

Application Process

  1. Verify your experience – Gather documentation for 4 years of qualifying experience
  2. Complete the application – Submit CSLB Application for Original Contractor License
  3. Pay application fee – Currently $450 (non-refundable)
  4. Pass background check – Fingerprinting and criminal history review
  5. Pass Law & Business exam – 115 questions, 72% to pass
  6. Pass B-2 Trade exam – 100 questions, 72% to pass
  7. Obtain contractor bond – $25,000 minimum bond requirement
  8. Pay license fee – Currently $200 for initial 2-year license

Need help with your application? Learn about our application processing services →

Fees and Costs

Application Fee (non-refundable) $450
Initial License Fee $200
Contractor Bond (minimum) $25,000
Exam Prep Course (varies by option) $300-$800
Total Investment $1,500-$3,000

Career Outlook for Residential Remodeling Contractors

The residential remodeling industry in California continues to grow, driven by aging housing stock, homeowner demand for upgrades, and energy efficiency requirements. Here's what licensed B-2 contractors can expect:

  • Median salary: $65,000 - $95,000 annually (varies by location and specialization)
  • Top earners: $120,000+ with established businesses
  • Job growth: 5-8% projected through 2030
  • California market: Strong demand in coastal cities and growing suburbs

Most Common B-2 Projects

  • Kitchen remodels (highest demand, best margins)
  • Bathroom renovations
  • Room additions
  • Whole-home renovations
  • Aging-in-place modifications
  • ADU conversions (garage to living space)
  • Energy efficiency upgrades

Related License Classifications

If you're considering a B-2 license, you may also want to explore these related classifications:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a B-2 contractor license in California?

A B-2 Residential Remodeling contractor license allows you to work on remodeling projects for existing residential wood frame structures. Projects must involve at least three unrelated building trades, such as kitchen or bathroom remodels.

What's the difference between a B and B-2 license?

A B (General Building) license allows new construction and any multi-trade project. A B-2 is limited to remodeling EXISTING residential wood frame structures only. B-2 cannot do new construction or make structural changes to load-bearing walls.

What work can a B-2 contractor perform?

B-2 contractors can perform kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, room additions (non-structural), interior renovations, and similar projects on existing residential wood frame buildings that require three or more unrelated trades.

What can't a B-2 contractor do?

B-2 contractors cannot build new construction, make structural changes to load-bearing walls, work on commercial buildings, do single-trade specialty work, or perform C-16 (Fire Protection) or C-57 (Well Drilling) work.

Should I get a B or B-2 license?

Get a B license if you want to do new construction or commercial work. Get a B-2 if you only plan to work on residential remodeling projects. The exams are similar, so many choose B for more flexibility.

How hard is the B-2 contractor license exam?

The B-2 exam has two parts: Law & Business (115 questions) and Trade (100 questions). With proper preparation, most students pass. CSLS has a 99% pass rate with our exam prep courses.

How much does a B-2 contractor license cost?

Total costs include: application fee ($450), initial license fee ($200), contractor bond ($15,000 minimum), and exam prep courses. Total investment is typically $1,500-$3,000.

What experience do I need for a B-2 license?

You need 4 years of journeyman-level experience in residential remodeling work. Education from accredited programs can substitute for up to 3 years of experience.

Ready to Get Your B-2 License?

Join thousands of California contractors who have passed their exams with CSLS. With our 99% pass rate and 40+ years of experience, we'll help you get licensed and start your residential remodeling business.

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