C-39 – Roofing Contractor License
California C-39 Roofing Contractor License Exam Preparation
The C-39 Roofing Contractor license is essential for contractors specializing in roof installation, repair, and waterproofing in California. With the state's diverse climate conditions – from coastal fog to desert heat – proper roofing installation is critical, and licensed contractors are in high demand.
At Contractors State License Services (CSLS), we've helped thousands of aspiring roofing contractors pass their CSLB exams and build successful businesses. With over 40 years of experience and a 99% pass rate, we offer the most comprehensive exam preparation programs in California.
Why Choose CSLS for Your C-39 License?
• 99% exam pass rate
• 40+ years helping contractors succeed
• 25+ convenient California locations
• Live instruction, online, and home study options
• Expert instructors with real-world roofing experience
What Is a C-39 Contractor License?
Official CSLB Definition
"A roofing contractor installs products and repairs surfaces that seal, waterproof and weatherproof structures. The purpose of weatherproofing is to prevent water and related substances from penetrating protective surfaces and accessing underlying materials or spaces."
— California Code of Regulations Title 16, Division 8, Article 3
In practical terms, a C-39 license authorizes you to install, repair, and maintain all types of roofing systems and weatherproofing materials. This covers everything from residential shingle roofs to commercial membrane systems.
Work You CAN Perform with a C-39 License
With a California C-39 Roofing contractor license, you can legally perform:
- Asphalt shingles – Most common residential roofing material
- Roof tile – Clay, concrete, and composite tiles
- Slate roofing – Natural and synthetic slate installation
- Metal roofing – Standing seam, corrugated, and metal tiles
- Wood shakes and shingles – Cedar and other wood materials
- Membrane systems – TPO, EPDM, PVC, and modified bitumen
- Built-up roofing (BUR) – Hot asphalt, tar, and gravel
- Spray foam roofing – Urethane foam systems with coatings
- Waterproofing – Below-grade and deck waterproofing
- Flashing – All roof penetration and edge flashing
- Roof ventilation – Ridge vents, turbines, and powered ventilation
- Gutters and downspouts – Installation as part of roofing projects
Work You CANNOT Perform
Even with a C-39 license, there are limitations:
- Structural framing – Requires C-5 Framing or B license
- General building construction – Multi-trade projects require B license
- Sheet metal HVAC – Requires C-43 Sheet Metal license
- Solar installation – May require C-46 or C-10 license
- Skylights with electrical – Requires C-10 for wiring
Important: Many roofing contractors work alongside general contractors (B license holders) as subcontractors on larger construction projects.
C-39 vs B License: Which Do You Need?
Many contractors wonder whether they need a C-39 (Roofing) specialty license or a B (General Building) license. Here's how to decide:
| Feature | C-39 - Roofing | B - General Building |
|---|---|---|
| Roofing Work | Yes (specialty focus) | Yes (as part of projects) |
| Experience Required | 4 years roofing | 4 years general building |
| Multi-Trade Projects | No | Yes |
| New Construction | Roofing only | Yes (complete buildings) |
| Remodeling | Roofing only | Yes (complete projects) |
| Subcontracting | Common | Can be prime contractor |
| Exam Difficulty | Roofing-focused | Broader scope |
Our recommendation: If you primarily do roofing work, the C-39 license is ideal. If you want to take on complete construction projects involving multiple trades, consider the B license.
C-39 License Exam Preparation
The CSLB examination for a C-39 Roofing contractor license consists of two parts:
- Law and Business Exam – 115 multiple-choice questions covering California contractor law, business management, and safety regulations
- Trade Exam – 100 multiple-choice questions on roofing knowledge and skills
Trade Exam Topics
The C-39 Roofing trade exam covers:
- Roofing materials – Properties, applications, and limitations of all roof types
- Installation methods – Proper techniques for each roofing system
- Underlayment – Felt, synthetic, and self-adhering membranes
- Flashing – Valley, step, counter, and drip edge flashing
- Ventilation – Attic ventilation requirements and methods
- Waterproofing – Below-grade and deck waterproofing systems
- Building codes – California Building Code roofing requirements
- Safety and OSHA – Fall protection, ladder safety, heat illness prevention
- Blueprint reading – Roof plans, details, and specifications
- Estimating and bidding – Material takeoffs, labor calculations, waste factors
Available Course Options
Request Free Information or call us at 800-409-8237
C-39 License Requirements
Experience Requirements
To qualify for a C-39 Roofing contractor license, you must have:
- 4 years of journeyman-level experience in roofing work within the past 10 years
- Experience must be verifiable through employer certification or other documentation
- Experience in the type of roofing work you'll be performing (residential, commercial, or industrial)
Alternative Pathways:
- Education can substitute for up to 3 years of experience (degree-dependent)
- Technical training programs may count toward experience
- Military roofing experience may qualify
- Apprenticeship completion plus additional experience
Application Process
- Verify Eligibility: Confirm you have 4 years of qualifying roofing experience and are at least 18 years old
- Complete Application: Fill out the CSLB application form accurately and completely
- Pay Application Fee: Submit the $450 application fee to CSLB
- Background Check: Complete fingerprinting and criminal background check
- Experience Verification: Have employers certify your roofing work experience
- Schedule Exams: Once approved, schedule your Law & Business and Trade exams
- Pass Exams: Score 72% or higher on both examinations
- Obtain Bond: Secure a $25,000 contractor bond
- Pay License Fee: Submit the $200 initial license fee
Fees and Costs
| Application Fee | $450 |
| Initial License Fee | $200 |
| Contractor Bond | $25,000 (premium varies) |
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $450 |
Need help with your application? CSLS offers Application Processing Services to ensure your application is complete and accurate, reducing delays and rejections.
Career Outlook for Roofing Contractors
California's roofing industry offers strong opportunities driven by several key factors:
- Median Annual Salary: $52,640 for roofers in California, with experienced contractors earning significantly more (BLS, 2023)
- Job Growth: 4% projected growth through 2032
- High Demand Areas:
- Storm damage repair – Winter storms create consistent repair demand
- Cool roofing – California's Title 24 requirements drive cool roof installations
- Solar preparation – Roofs often need repair/replacement before solar installation
- Fire-resistant roofing – WUI areas require Class A rated roofing
- Commercial roofing – Membrane and built-up roofing for businesses
- Re-roofing – Aging California homes need roof replacements
- Self-Employment: Many C-39 holders operate their own contracting businesses
With California's aging housing stock and strict energy efficiency requirements, licensed roofing contractors are positioned for long-term career success.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, California Employment Development Department
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a C-39 contractor license in California?
A C-39 Roofing contractor license allows you to install, repair, and maintain roofing systems and weatherproofing surfaces. This includes shingles, tiles, metal roofing, membrane systems, and waterproofing materials.
How do I get a roofing contractor license in California?
You need 4 years of journeyman-level roofing experience, pass the CSLB Law & Business and Trade exams, obtain a $25,000 contractor bond, and complete the application process. CSLS provides comprehensive exam preparation to help you pass on your first attempt.
What work can a C-39 contractor perform?
C-39 contractors can install and repair all types of roofing systems including asphalt shingles, tile, slate, metal roofing, membrane systems, and waterproofing. This includes surface preparation, underlayment, flashing, and ventilation.
Do I need a C-39 license or a B license for roofing work?
A C-39 license allows you to perform roofing work as a specialty contractor. A B (General Building) license allows roofing as part of larger projects. For roofing-only work, the C-39 is more appropriate and has less stringent requirements.
How hard is the C-39 contractor license exam?
The C-39 exam has two parts: Law & Business (115 questions) and Trade (100 questions). The trade exam covers roofing materials, installation methods, safety, and building codes. With proper preparation, most students pass. CSLS has a 99% pass rate.
How much does a C-39 contractor license cost?
Total costs include: application fee ($450), initial license fee ($200), contractor bond ($25,000 minimum), and exam prep courses. Total investment is typically $1,500-$3,000.
What experience do I need for a C-39 license?
You need 4 years of journeyman-level experience in roofing work within the last 10 years. Education from accredited programs can substitute for up to 3 years of experience.
Can a C-39 contractor do waterproofing work?
Yes. The C-39 classification explicitly includes weatherproofing and waterproofing work using membranes and other protective materials to prevent water penetration.
Ready to Get Your C-39 License?
Join thousands of successful roofing contractors who passed their CSLB exam with CSLS. With 40 years of experience and a 99% pass rate, we're California's most trusted contractor licensing school.
Whether you prefer live classroom instruction, online self-study, or home study materials, we have a program that fits your learning style and schedule.
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