How to Get a Contractor License in California: Steps and Costs
Updated October 30, 2026
Here is the whole path from CSLB's own instructions, in order, with what each step costs.
1. Check that you qualify
The person who qualifies the license must have at least four years of experience in the classification within the last 10 years, at journeyman level or higher, or as a foreman, supervising employee, contractor, or owner-builder. Education or a completed apprenticeship may earn credit toward that.
2. Pick one classification
CSLB says you may apply for only one classification at a time. After the license issues, you can add others. Pick the one your experience actually supports.
3. Send the application
Submit the application, a Certification of Work Experience for each employer, and the $450 nonrefundable fee. Do not send bonds or the initial license fee yet. CSLB requires original signatures on the experience forms; faxed, photocopied, or stamped signatures are not accepted.
Every application needs a business name, even for a sole owner. It cannot suggest an entity or classification you do not hold, and corporations and LLCs must match the Secretary of State exactly.
4. Wait for the acknowledgment and acceptance
CSLB says its acknowledgment letter comes within 4 to 6 weeks, with your application fee number and PIN for checking status. If it needs corrections, you have 90 days or the application becomes void. CSLB also randomly reviews about 3% of applications, so keep payroll records and similar proof.
5. Pass the exams
Once accepted, you get a Notice to Schedule an Examination and book through PSI. Most applicants take a Law and Business exam and a trade exam. You have 18 months from acceptance to pass. After a failed attempt you wait 21 calendar days and pay a re-examination fee to PSI. If you qualify for a waiver, you skip this step: see Can you skip the CSLB exam?
6. Send the final documents together
CSLB then asks for the initial license fee, your bonds, workers' comp or an exemption, and fingerprints, and asks that you submit the documents together to avoid delays.
What it costs
| Item | Amount | Paid to |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | $450 | CSLB |
| Initial license fee | $200 sole owner, $350 other entities | CSLB |
| Fingerprint processing | $32 DOJ + $17 FBI, plus the site's rolling fee | Live Scan operator |
| Exam fees | Set by PSI | PSI |
| $25,000 contractor bond | Premium quoted by the surety | Surety |
| Workers' comp | Premium, or an exemption if eligible | Insurer |
LLCs also need a $100,000 worker bond and liability insurance: see LLC contractor license requirements. Veterans may get expedited processing and 50% off the initial license fee with proof of service.
Sources
- CSLB: Public Information Center FAQ
- 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.