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A California C-16 Fire Protection contractor license lets you lay out, fabricate, and install fire-protection systems for hire. It requires passing CSLB’s C-16 trade exam and the Law & Business exam, plus at least four years of qualifying fire-protection experience.
What does a C-16 license cover?
A fire protection contractor lays out, fabricates, and installs all types of fire protection systems, including the associated equipment — excluding electrical alarm systems. (Source: California Code of Regulations, Title 16, Section 832.16.) Fire sprinkler and suppression system installation falls under this classification; electrical fire alarm systems do not.
How do I get a C-16 license?
You’ll need at least four years of qualifying fire-protection experience within the last 10 years, a completed CSLB application, and passing scores on both the C-16 trade exam and the Law & Business exam. See our step-by-step application guide and current fee and bond breakdown.