Questions

In California for over thirty five (35) years, we have played a significant role in helping both men and women successfully pass the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) testing requirements for: General Engineering (A), General Contracting (B), or Specialty Contractor (C) licenses.

These continue to be the most frequently asked questions:

• Who can become a licensed contractor?
• Who must be licensed as a contractor?
• Who can submit bids?
• What kind of experience is required?
• Is there an education requirement?
• Is there an examination requirement for a contractor's license?
• Are there any financial requirements to qualify for a contractor's license?
• Is workers' compensation insurance required?
• How much does the license cost?

How does this apply to you? Please call us at 800.545.5650

Need more information? Please call us at 800.545.5650

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Q: Who can become a licensed contractor?

A: Anyone 18 years of age or older, that has the skills and experience necessary to manage daily activities in a construction business, including field supervision can become a licensed contractor.

Q: Who must be licensed as a contractor?

A: Any business or individual intending to contract to; construct, alter, build or excavate: (1) highways, (2) roads, (3) parking facilities, (4) railroads, or (5) any other structure in California must be licensed by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB), if the total cost (labor and materials) of one or more contracts on a project is more than $500.

Q: Who can submit bids for work on jobs over $500 in California?

A: Licensed California Contractors.

Q: What kind of experience is required to apply for my license and take the exam?

A: At least four years of journey-level experience is required to qualify for the exam. Credit is given for experience as a journeyman, foreman, supervising employee, contractor, owner-builder and those that are self-employed. Credit can also be given for some types of education and technical training.

Q: Is there an education requirement?

A: No. There are not educational requirements to quality for a contractor's license. However, in order to qualify to sit for your exam the State can grant credit for technical training, apprenticeship training or education for a portion of your, required four (4) years of practical experience. At least one (1) year must be practical experience.

Q: Is there an examination requirement for a contractor's license?

A: Yes. The qualifying individual for a contractor's license is required to pass a written law and trade examination. The exam is given in multiple-choice format. Some individuals can qualify (Please call 800.545.5650) for an exam waiver.

Q: Are there any financial requirements to qualify for a contractor's license?

A: Yes. All applicants must have at least $2,500 in operating capital. However, no formal proof is required. More importantly, after the exam, to begin contracting a contractor must post a Surety Bond of $10,000. This cost is approx. $160.00 to $199.00 for a two year bond. (Please call 800.545.5650)

Q: Is workers' compensation insurance required?

A: Yes and No. All contractors who have employees are required to present proof of an up to date workers' compensation insurance policy. Contractors who do not have employees working for them are required to file a certificate of exemption.

Q: How much does the license cost?

A: $400 - a $250 application fee is required by the State when you submit your application. An additional $150 is also required by the State for your initial license fee, which is good for two (2) years. To stay current you will need to renew your license, every two (2) years before it expires.

Need more information? Please call us at 800.545.5650