CSLB Quick Facts

License required for jobs over
$1,000
Minimum contractor bond
$25,000
Journey-level experience
4 years
Current exam passing scores
School-observed: 65% for Law & Business and 63% to 71% for trade exams; CSLB does not publish fixed passing scores

The CSLB oversees 46 contractor classifications in California.

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Do You Need a Classroom to Become a Licensed Contractor?

By 2 min read

Do You Need a Classroom to Become a Licensed Contractor?

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”22047″ img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full”][vc_column_text]One of the greatest things about becoming a licensed contractor through CSLS is that we have learning options for virtually any schedule or budget. Regardless of where you’re at in your construction career, and what else might be going on in your life, our team of counselors can help you find a way to reach your dream of being a self-employed professional.

But, the question that comes up from time to time is: “Do I need to take a classroom course, or can I just learn online or through self-study?”

The short answer is that most students certainly can do just fine with online classes or at-home materials. Still, even though those options are generally more convenient, there are a few advantages to getting the full CSLS classroom experience:

It’s easier for some students to focus on a classroom. Learning at home is convenient, but it’s sometimes too convenient. In other words, the distractions of television, the Internet, friends and family members, or just a comfy couch can be too strong. When you take a classroom course with CSLS, you don’t have as many distractions. So, you could actually spend less time getting ready for your exam.

You can learn from other students and the questions they ask. Simply being around others who are learning the same material can be a big benefit. For instance, they may ask questions in class that you hadn’t thought of, but could enhance your understanding of a topic or point. And, in a classroom setting it’s easy to meet others who can study with you as you prepare for your test

With classroom learning, you have access to everything you need right in front of you. Although we don’t have the distractions of home in our classrooms, we do have lots of great resources nearby – especially experienced instructors and computers for practice exams. Simply having everything you need within arm’s reach can make the learning process faster and more convenient.

Are classroom-style learning options right for you? Only you can decide. Don’t automatically assume that you want to learn online or at home, though, because taking courses at one of our 25 statewide locations might actually be the easier answer.

If you’re serious about becoming a licensed contractor, now is the perfect time to take the first step and speak with a CSLS admissions counselor. Our team is standing by, ready to help you find the option that’s perfect for your schedule and budget.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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