California Contractor License for Veterans and Military Spouses
Updated November 1, 2026
CSLB has benefits for service members, veterans, and military spouses on the original license application. To ask for them, answer the military service questions on the application and attach proof. Here is what each one takes.
The benefits at a glance
| Who | What CSLB offers |
|---|---|
| Active duty members and veterans not dishonorably discharged, including National Guard and Reserves | Expedited processing and 50% off the initial license fee: $100 instead of $200 for a sole owner, $175 instead of $350 for other entities |
| Service members in a SkillBridge program | Expedited processing |
| Spouses or domestic partners of active duty members stationed in California, with a current license from another state | Expedited processing, and the $450 application fee and initial license fee waived |
| Anyone with relevant active duty experience | Possible credit toward the experience requirement |
Expedited means CSLB moves it up. It is not a promised date, and you still have to meet every other requirement.
What to attach
- Current service: a copy of your military orders.
- Veterans: your latest DD 214 long form showing discharge status, or a current driver's license or ID with "Veteran" printed on it.
- National Guard: NGB 22. Reserves: DD256.
- SkillBridge: proof of enrollment, such as a letter from your commanding officer.
- Spouses and partners: your current license from the other state in the same classification, your marriage certificate or registered domestic partnership, and military orders showing a California duty station.
For the spouse waiver, CSLB says all documentation has to be submitted with the application. Other costs, such as exam, fingerprint, bond, and insurance costs, are still yours.
Using military experience
CSLB may credit work and training from active duty in the classification you are applying for. Report it on a Certification of Work Experience, check the military service question on the application, and include your Joint Service Transcripts. You can also provide your orders or DD 214.
Refugees, asylees, and special immigrant visa holders
CSLB also expedites these applicants with proof of status, such as Form I-94 with an RE or AY code, a special immigrant visa with SI or SQ, or a green card showing the category.
The rest of the path
Experience, exams, the bond, workers' comp, and fingerprints work the same as for anyone else. See the full steps, or whether you can skip the exam.
Sources
- CSLB: Application for Original Contractor License
- CSLB: Application for Original Contractor License, Examination Waiver (7065), form 13A-1a
- CSLB: List of All CSLB Fees
This guide is general information, not legal advice. CSLB rules and fees change; always confirm on cslb.ca.gov.