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CSLB Licensing Guide

How to Get a Contractor License in California

A clear guide to getting your California contractor license—including the required bond, workers' compensation, and liability insurance you'll need before CSLB issues your license number.

Ready to get your contractor bond? Start your bond application and we'll file it with CSLB for you.

1. Check Eligibility

Before applying for a California contractor license, you must meet these basic requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a Social Security number or ITIN
  • Have four years of journey-level experience in your trade within the past ten years

Journey-level means you worked as a skilled tradesperson—not as an apprentice or helper. Experience can come from employment, self-employment, or a combination of both.

2. Choose Your Business Entity

CSLB allows four types of business entities to hold a contractor license:

  • Individual/Sole Proprietor – simplest structure, you are personally liable
  • Partnership – two or more individuals sharing ownership and liability
  • Corporation – separate legal entity providing liability protection
  • LLC – combines liability protection with pass-through taxation

Important: LLCs require a separate $100,000 LLC employee/worker bond in addition to the standard contractor license bond.

3. Submit Your Application

File the "Application for Original Contractor License" with CSLB. The process includes:

  • Completing the application form (available online or by mail)
  • Paying the processing fee (currently $450)
  • Completing fingerprinting for your criminal background check
  • Providing documentation of your work experience

CSLB will review your application and notify you of next steps, which typically includes scheduling your exams.

4. Take Required Exams

Most applicants must pass two exams:

  • Law and Business Exam – covers California contractor law, business management, and safety regulations
  • Trade Exam – tests your knowledge of your specific license classification

Once CSLB approves your application, they'll send instructions for scheduling your exams. You have 18 months from application approval to pass both exams.

5. Secure Your Required Bond & Insurance

Before CSLB issues your license number, you must provide proof of the following:

  • $25,000 Contractor License Bond – required for all contractors
  • $100,000 LLC Worker Bond – required only if your entity is an LLC
  • Workers' Compensation Insurance – required if you have employees (or file an exemption if you don't)
  • General Liability Insurance – not required by CSLB, but often required by clients and general contractors

Your insurance broker files the bond directly with CSLB on your behalf. Once everything is in place, CSLB issues your license number and you're ready to start working.

Need your contractor bond or insurance?

We file your contractor bond directly with CSLB and help you secure workers' comp and liability coverage so you can complete the licensing process without delays.

Start your bond application Call (925) 744-6553

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, insurance, or professional advice. CSLB licensing requirements are subject to change. Always verify current requirements directly with the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) before beginning the licensing process.

Glacier Point Insurance Services, Inc. is a licensed insurance broker (CA License #6008364). We do not provide legal advice and cannot guarantee licensing outcomes. For the most current and official information, please visit www.cslb.ca.gov or consult with a qualified attorney.

Official guide: CSLB – Get Licensed to Build (PDF)