California Contractor License Requirements
verifiedState-Level License RequiredCalifornia has the largest contractor licensing system in the U.S. Unlicensed work over $500 is a misdemeanor. The CSLB actively investigates unlicensed contracting.
account_balanceLicensing Board
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Board Name
Contractors State License Board (CSLB)
language
Website
https://www.cslb.ca.gov/phone
Phone
(800) 321-2752
descriptionLicense Types
| Type | Threshold | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General Engineering (A) | $500+ | Engineering projects — fixed works requiring specialized engineering |
| General Building (B) | $500+ | Building projects requiring at least 2 unrelated trades |
| Specialty (C-series) | $500+ | 42 specialty classifications including C-10 Electrical, C-36 Plumbing, C-20 HVAC |
checklistRequirements
- check_circlePass trade exam
- check_circlePass law and business exam
- check_circle4 years journey-level experience
- check_circleSurety bond ($25,000)
- check_circleWorkers compensation
- check_circleFingerprint background check
paymentsFee Schedule
Application
$450
Annual Renewal
$450
Exam Fee
$100
event_repeatRenewal Period
Biennial — active license date
shieldInsurance Minimums
General Liability
Not required by state
Workers Compensation
Required if employees
swap_horizReciprocity
- arrow_forwardNo reciprocity agreements
infoData sourced from state licensing board websites. Requirements change frequently — verify with your state board before applying. Last updated April 2026.