The State of California requires that a contractor providing services for any construction project over $500 be licensed as a contractor by the state. If you are interested in getting your general contractors license in California, this article is for you.
In California individuals or firms who contract for building projects where the total labor and material cost is $500 or more are required to obtain a contractor's license from the Contractors' State License Board (CSLB). "Building projects" include constructing a new residential or commercial building, alterations or additions to existing buildings, and excavating, grading, and paving for highways, roads, and parking lots.
Contractors' licenses are grouped into three main classifications:
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General Engineering (A)
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General Building (B)
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Specialty (C)
There are 39 specialty classifications. Examples are Concrete (C-8), Electrical (C-10), Plumbing (C-36), and Roofing (C-39). In addition, the CSLB issues two certificates: Asbestos Abatement and Hazardous Substances Removal.
In general, to qualify for a contractor's license, an individual must have at least four years work experience as a journeyman, foreman, or supervisor in the trade classification for which he or she is applying. For example, an applicant for a Plumbing (C-36) license must have four or more years experience in the plumbing trade. Apprenticeship, technical training programs, or college course work can be substituted for a portion of the four- year work experience requirement.
Obtaining a contractor's license usually involves three steps:
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You must send the CSLB an "Application for Original Contractor's License" with a check for $250 representing the application processing fee.
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If the application forms are accepted, you will be scheduled for the Law/Business and Trade exams. The Law/Business exam covers various legal and business topics, such as licensing, contracts, bid procedures, liens and dispute resolution, employee issues, insurance, bookkeeping, etc. The Trade exam covers topics relating to your specific trade classification. For example, a plumber is tested on the Uniform Plumbing Code, plumbing tools, materials and equipment, trade practices, safety procedures, and interpretation of plumbing plans and specifications.
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After passing the exams, you must file a contractor's license bond with other forms the CSLB will send you, along with a $150 check representing the license fee for the first two years.
You can obtain more information at the CSLB's website: www.cslb.ca.gov
source: acontractorslicense - General contractor license California requirements
