License threshold
CSLB requires a license when a project needs a building permit, uses additional workers, or has a combined labor-and-material value of $1,000 or more. The exemption requires under $1,000, no permit, and no employee labor. Contract splitting is not allowed.
Entity and qualifier
The license belongs to the licensed individual, partnership, corporation, LLC, or joint venture. Every classification needs a qualifier responsible for construction operations. CSLB generally requires four years of verifiable journey-level or higher experience in that classification during the prior ten years.
Examinations
Applicants generally take law and business and trade exams. C-61 does not require a trade exam, and CSLB decides whether a waiver applies. New applicants must also complete the asbestos open-book examination and verification before issuance.
Classification
Match contracts and self-performed work to A, B, B-2, defined C, or C-61 scope. A general license does not authorize every stand-alone specialty contract. Confirm the current classification text.
Bonds and LLC insurance
- Standard contractor bond: $25,000.
- Qualifier bond: a separate $25,000 when the CSLB role and ownership triggers apply.
- LLC worker bond: a separate $100,000.
- LLC liability insurance: at least $1 million for five or fewer personnel of record, increasing by $100,000 per additional person to $5 million.
Business and tax setup
Form or register the entity through the proper state or county system, maintain required public filings, and obtain only the tax accounts that match the operation. CDTFA seller's-permit rules depend on taxable retail sales or leases, not merely the word “contractor.”
Local and project permits
Use GO-Biz and CalGOLD to identify possible agencies, then verify directly. The business location and every job jurisdiction may impose different licenses or permits.
Advertising and status
Use the CSLB license number where required, advertise within the active classification, follow commercial-vehicle lettering rules, and do not represent the business as “bonded.” Check the public license record before every major change and before relying on another contractor's status.
One-page launch checklist
- Legal name and entity record match.
- Correct CSLB classification selected.
- Qualifier and experience accepted.
- Required exams completed.
- Bonds and LLC insurance filed.
- License shows active in public lookup.
- Tax and employer accounts configured.
- Local business and project permits confirmed.
- Contracts and advertising reviewed.
- Renewal and filing calendar assigned.
Frequently asked questions
Is an LLC filing enough?
No. It forms the entity but does not activate a contractor license.
Can a contractor start while the license is pending?
Do not bid or contract as licensed until CSLB shows the required license active.
Do specialty rules end with CSLB?
No. Some services have additional regulators, certifications, or local permits. Verify the exact work.
General operational information, not legal advice. Requirements change and scope matters. Confirm current rules with CSLB and each issuing agency.