Become a California Contractor

Quick Overview on Becoming a Contractor in California:

• All contractors involved in construction related trades in California are required to be licensed by the California State License Board (CSLB)
• To become a licensed contractor, candidates will have to sit for two exams: a business & law exam and an exam on their trade.
• In order to sit for the examinations, the board must first approve your application.
• Pre-approval from the state is required to sit for the examination.
• Applicants are required to have 4 years experience to qualify to take the exam. Experience must be as a journeyman, foreman or supervisor, contractor, or as an owner-builder.
• All applicants must have a working capital of at least $2,500.

Steps To Become A Licensed Contractor In California

Step One:

Fill out your Contractors License Application

Once you review the above requirements for becoming a Contractor in California and you determine that you have met those requirements, you will need to get your Bond & Insurance Quote

Step Two:

Apply for your Examination

To Apply for your Contractor’s License Examination in California, Visit the Contractors State License Board.

Step Three:

Download or order the Contractors License Law & Reference book

You can order the book here if you prefer to have the book in hand. Or, you can download a free PDF here (2020 Version).

Step Five:

Get your License

Visit this page on the Contractors State License Board to issue your Contractor’s License.