How do I get a contractors license in California?
What are the requirements to get a general contractor license in California?
To obtain a general contractor license, you must:
- Be 18 or older with a valid Social Security number or individual taxpayer identification number.
- Have had four years of qualifying experience (journey-level or above) within the past 10 years.
- Pass a two-part exam through the Contractors State Licensing Board.
Common challenges for obtaining a license
The two biggest challenges for obtaining a California general contractor license are passing the exam and paying all the fees.
The exam is intentionally difficult, and you are unlikely to pass it without studying. Our study guides give you all of the questions and answers in an easy format for studying. We also provide practice exams so that you can practice as often as you need to, to get a passing score.
How long does it take to get a contractors license in California?
It can take weeks to be approved to take the licensing exam, and there is no way to speed up the process. If you qualify for an exam waiver, it could be a little quicker, but there is no guarantee.
Fortunately, when you take the exam, you will know your results before leaving the testing center. At that point, it should take less than two weeks to receive your wall certificate and pocket license card.
Does California require contractors to be licensed?
All businesses or individuals who construct or alter any building, highway, road, parking facility, railroad, excavation, or other structure in California must be licensed by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) if the total cost (labor and materials) of one or more contracts on the project is $500 or more.
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We provide you with condensed study materials to pass the California Contractors and Real Estate License exams, saving you countless hours of studying.
