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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CSLB Certifications

Contractor Certifications

Beyond your license classification, the CSLB offers two specialized certifications, Asbestos (ASB) and Hazardous Substance Removal (HAZ), that authorize regulated abatement and removal work.

Certification vs. Classification

It’s easy to confuse the two, but they do different jobs. Your classification is the core of your license; it defines the type of construction work you’re licensed to perform, whether that’s general building, general engineering, or one of the specialty trades.

A certification is an add-on credential. A licensed contractor earns it to perform specially regulated work that the state restricts, like asbestos abatement or hazardous substance removal. A certification sits on top of your license; it doesn’t replace it.

CSLS has prepared California contractors for both licensing and certification since 1985.

Common Questions

Certification Questions

A classification is the core license that defines the type of construction work you can do (for example, general building or a specialty trade). A certification is an add-on credential a licensed contractor earns to perform specially regulated work (like asbestos or hazardous substance removal) on top of an existing license.
Yes. The ASB and HAZ certifications are obtained by contractors who already hold (or are obtaining) a CSLB license. The certification authorizes regulated work; it does not replace the underlying license.
The ASB certification authorizes a licensed contractor to perform asbestos-related work that is otherwise restricted. It involves an examination on asbestos handling, safety, and regulations.
The HAZ certification authorizes a licensed contractor to perform hazardous substance removal and remedial action on registered hazardous waste sites. It requires passing a dedicated hazardous-substance certification exam.
Yes. CSLS has prepared California contractors for licensing and certification since 1985. Call 800-809-6463 and we’ll explain what each certification requires and how we can help you prepare.
It depends on the work you intend to perform: asbestos work calls for the ASB certification, while hazardous substance removal calls for HAZ. If you’re unsure, call us and we’ll point you to the right path for your trade.

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Questions About Certifications?

Call and we’ll explain whether you need the ASB or HAZ certification and how to prepare. CSLS has guided California contractors since 1985 (over 200,000+ students).

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