Do I need a license to work as a contractor in California?

Yes. California requires a license from the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) for any construction project where the combined cost of labor and materials is $500 or more. Contracting without a license on such projects is a misdemeanor. (Source: California Business and Professions Code sections 7048 and 7028.)

What exams are required to get a California contractor license?

Most applicants must pass two exams administered by the CSLB: the Law and Business exam and a trade-specific exam for the classification being applied for. Both are generally required before a license is issued. (Source: California Contractors State License Board.)

How much experience do I need to qualify for the CSLB contractor exam?

Applicants must document at least four years of journey-level or equivalent experience in the trade within the prior ten years to qualify to sit for the CSLB examination. (Source: California Business and Professions Code section 7068.)

What is the difference between the Law and Business exam and the trade exam?

The Law and Business exam covers operating a contracting business in California, including contracts, licensing law, safety, employment, insurance, bonds, and financial management, and is common to nearly all classifications. The trade exam tests the technical knowledge specific to your classification, such as C-36 Plumbing or B General Building. (Source: California Contractors State License Board.)

What is the NASCLA exam and how does it help with multi-state licensing?

The NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is accepted by many states in place of their own trade exam, which helps contractors who want to be licensed in more than one state. Applicants still meet each state's other licensing requirements. (Source: National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies.)

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Study guides, practice exams, and detailed answer explanations for contractor license classifications across 44 states. Choose your state to see exactly what applies to you.

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Two Exams Required for Your Contractor License

The CSLB requires every contractor to pass two separate exams. We prepare you for both.

1. Trade Exam

The trade exam is specific to your classification. A C-10 Electrical contractor takes a different exam than a C-36 Plumber or a B General Building contractor. The exam tests your knowledge of codes, safety, materials, methods, and estimation for your specific trade.

Our prep: Classification-specific study guide + 4 practice exams (400 questions) with detailed explanations.

2. Law & Business Exam

Every contractor must also pass the Law & Business exam regardless of classification. It covers California contractor law (liens, contracts, licensing requirements), business management, safety regulations (Cal/OSHA), and project estimation.

Our prep: Comprehensive Law & Business study guide included FREE with every classification purchase.

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Below are the California (CSLB) classifications. Click any classification to get started, or choose another state from our 27-state catalog.

Browse Contractor Exam Prep — Classifications Across 44 States

Complete exam prep packages with study guides, practice exams, and detailed answer explanations for state contractor license classifications nationwide. Choose your state to see what applies to you.

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