Information & Requirements
California Contractor License Requirements
Everything the CSLB requires before you can get licensed (age, experience, exams, fingerprinting, fees, and the bond). Here’s the full, accurate checklist.
What You Need to Get Licensed
The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) sets clear requirements for every applicant. Meeting them is the foundation of your license, and getting each one right the first time keeps your application moving.
Below is the complete checklist. CSLS helps you document your experience correctly, prepare for both exams, and avoid the mistakes that slow applications down. We’ve guided California tradespeople through this process since 1985.
The Checklist
CSLB Eligibility Requirements
Meet all of these and you’re eligible to be licensed.
Be at Least 18 Years Old (in Practice)
You generally must be 18 or older to apply for a CSLB contractor license (a minor may qualify only with a court-appointed guardian, per BPC §7065.5).
Valid ID & SSN or ITIN
You’ll need a valid government-issued ID and a Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
4 Years of Journey-Level Experience
At least 4 years of journey-level experience in your trade, gained within the last 10 years. Up to 3 years may be substituted with approved education or apprenticeship.
Pass Both Exams
Law & Business (115 questions) plus a trade exam for your classification. Both are multiple choice. Based on current CSLB scoring practice provided to CSLS, passing scores are School-observed: 65% for Law & Business and 63% to 71% for trade exams; CSLB does not publish fixed passing scores; CSLB sets scores by exam version.
Complete Fingerprinting (Live Scan)
All applicants must submit fingerprints via California’s Live Scan for a criminal background check before a license is issued.
Post the Contractor Bond
Before licensure you must post the $25,000 contractor bond required by the CSLB.
The Two Exams in Detail
Law & Business
- Questions115
- Time allowed3.5 hours
- FormatMultiple choice
- Current passing score65%
Covers business management, contracts, employment and labor law, safety, and licensing law. The same for every applicant, regardless of trade.
Trade Exam
- TopicYour classification
- FormatMultiple choice
- Current passing-score range63% to 71%
Specific to the classification you apply for, covering the technical knowledge of your trade. Question count varies by classification. We prepare you for the exact exam you’ll take.
School-observed data from a CSLS snapshot dated July 17, 2026; this is not a fixed passing score published by CSLB, and scores may vary by exam version. Call 800-809-6463 for the latest specifics for your classification.
Common Questions
Requirements Questions
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