CA State Licensing Information

California State Contractor Licensing Information

The California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) requires all contractors performing work valued at $500 or more (combined labor and materials) to hold a valid state contractor's license. Understanding the requirements before you apply can save you time and help you pass on your first attempt.

Who Needs a License?

Any individual, firm, or corporation that constructs, alters, repairs, or improves any building, road, or structure in California for compensation must be licensed by the CSLB — including general contractors, specialty contractors, and subcontractors.

License Classifications

The CSLB issues licenses in three main categories:

  • Class A — General Engineering Contractor: Projects involving fixed works requiring specialized engineering knowledge and skill.
  • Class B — General Building Contractor: Projects involving two or more unrelated building trades or crafts.
  • Class C — Specialty Contractors: 44 specialty classifications covering specific trades such as electrical (C-10), plumbing (C-36), HVAC (C-20), roofing (C-39), and more.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Have a valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
  • Have at least four years of journey-level experience in the trade within the past ten years
  • Pass the CSLB licensing examination (Law & Business + trade-specific exam)
  • Pay all applicable fees
  • Obtain a contractor's bond ($25,000) and show proof of workers' compensation insurance (if you have employees)

The Licensing Exam

All applicants must pass two exams:

  1. Law and Business exam — covers California contractor law, business practices, lien laws, and safety regulations. Required for all license classifications.
  2. Trade exam — covers the technical knowledge specific to your license classification (e.g., electrical, plumbing, concrete).

Exams are administered by PSI Exams on behalf of the CSLB at testing centers throughout California.

How Peerless Institute Can Help

Since 1953, Peerless Institute has helped tens of thousands of California contractors pass their CSLB exams. We offer study guides and online practice exams for all major license classifications — so you walk into the exam confident and prepared.

Additional Resources