California Contractor License Requirements
Find licensing requirements for 30 contractor trades in California. Select a trade below to see detailed fees, exams, and step-by-step instructions.
California Licensing Overview
California requires state-level licensing for 30 out of 30 contractor trades covered in this guide.
Licensing is handled by various state agencies depending on the trade. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing authority before beginning your application, as fees and regulations can change.
Asbestos Abatement
Asbestos Abatement
$805
Total Cost
2 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Boiler Technician
Boiler Technician
$500
Total Cost
2 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Carpenter
Carpenter
$225
Total Cost
3 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Demolition Contractor
Demolition Contractor
$675
Total Cost
3 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Electrician
Electrician
$455
Total Cost
4 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Elevator Mechanic
Elevator Mechanic
$780
Total Cost
4 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Excavation Contractor
Excavation Contractor
$560
Total Cost
3 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Fencing Contractor
Fencing Contractor
$185
Total Cost
1 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Fire Sprinkler Installer
Fire Sprinkler Installer
$685
Total Cost
4 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Flooring Contractor
Flooring Contractor
$210
Total Cost
2 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
General Contractor
General Contractor
$800
Total Cost
4 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Glazier
Glazier
$240
Total Cost
3 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Home Inspector
Home Inspector
$735
Total Cost
0 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
HVAC Technician
HVAC Technician
$505
Total Cost
3 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Insulation Contractor
Insulation Contractor
$210
Total Cost
2 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Ironworker
Ironworker
$275
Total Cost
3 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Landscaper
Landscaper
$210
Total Cost
2 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Lead Paint Abatement
Lead Paint Abatement
$630
Total Cost
1 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Low Voltage Technician
Low Voltage Technician
$390
Total Cost
2 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Mason
Mason
$245
Total Cost
3 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Painting Contractor
Painting Contractor
$260
Total Cost
2 yrs
Experience
No
Exam
Pest Control
Pest Control
$370
Total Cost
1 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Pipefitter
Pipefitter
$460
Total Cost
4 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Plumber
Plumber
$460
Total Cost
4 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Roofing Contractor
Roofing Contractor
$555
Total Cost
3 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Septic System Installer
Septic System Installer
$455
Total Cost
2 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Sheet Metal Worker
Sheet Metal Worker
$455
Total Cost
4 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Solar Installer
Solar Installer
$650
Total Cost
2 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Welder
Welder
$480
Total Cost
2 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Well Driller
Well Driller
$665
Total Cost
3 yrs
Experience
Yes
Exam
Tips for Getting Licensed in California
- Start early. Many licenses require years of experience or apprenticeship hours. Plan your career path well in advance.
- Keep documentation. Maintain records of all work experience, training hours, and certifications. You will need these for your application.
- Budget for all costs. Beyond application and license fees, factor in exam prep materials, insurance premiums, and bond costs.
- Check local requirements. Even if a state license is not required for your trade, your city or county may require a local business license or contractor registration.
- Stay current. Most licenses require renewal every 1-3 years. Some trades require continuing education credits for renewal.