California · General Contractor

How to get a General Contractor license in California

License requiredYes (state)
Issuing boardContractors State License Board (CSLB)
ExamYes — Law & Business exam + B trade exam; 70% min
Experience4 years journeyman-level (last 10 yrs)
BondYes — $25,000
License fee$300
RenewalEvery 2 year(s)
Reciprocitynone

Bond $25k per B&P 7071.6; verify fee at CSLB

Official source: Contractors State License Board (CSLB)

Now get operating

Finance your truck & equipment

General Contractors starting out finance the truck and tools rather than pay cash.

Financing options →

Form your LLC

Set up the entity before you pull your first permit.

Start your LLC →

Get insured

General liability + the required bond to operate legally.

Insurance guide →

Every figure is sourced to the official state board and may change — confirm before acting. Information to help you launch, not legal advice.