Steps to becoming a General Contractor

To research licensing requirements for becoming a general contractor in your state, follow these steps:

Step 1: Identify Your State Licensing Board

General contractor licensing is typically regulated at the state or local level.
Search for the official State Licensing Board for Contractors or the Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation in your state.

Step 2: Visit the State Licensing Board’s Website

Navigate to the section dedicated to contractor licensing.
Look for information such as:
- License classifications and levels (e.g., residential, commercial, specialty).
- Application requirements.
- Fees for exams and licensing.
- Continuing education or renewal requirements.

Step 3: Review Local Requirements

In some states, general contractor licensing may be handled at the county or city level.
Check with your local building department or municipality for specific requirements in your area.

Step 4: Understand Education and Experience Prerequisites

Requirements often include:
- A minimum number of years of experience in construction or project management.
- Proof of completion of construction-related coursework or certifications.

Step 5: Learn About Exams

Many states require you to pass a licensing exam covering:
- Construction law.
- Safety regulations (OSHA).
- Building codes.
- Project management.

Step 6: Check Insurance and Bonding Requirements

Confirm the type and amount of liability insurance and bonding required for your license.
Some states mandate workers’ compensation insurance if you have employees.

Step 7: Contact the Licensing Board for Clarification

If any requirements are unclear, call or email the licensing authority.
They can provide guidance, application forms, and additional resources.

Step 8: Research Reciprocity Agreements

If you’ve worked in another state, check if your experience qualifies for reciprocity, allowing you to transfer your license.

Resources for Research

NASCLA (National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies): https://www.nascla.org
- A great resource for finding state-specific licensing boards.
State government websites (search “[your state] contractor licensing”).

Steps to Become a General Contractor in California

In California, general contractor licensing is regulated by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Here’s how you can research and proceed with licensing requirements:

Step 1: Visit the CSLB Website

Go to the official CSLB website: https://www.cslb.ca.gov.
Look for the “Apply for a License” section under “Contractors.”

Step 2: Review License Classifications

California offers various contractor classifications.
- General Building Contractor License (Class B) is typically required for managing building projects involving multiple trades.
Read about other license types in the CSLB’s License Classification Guide: License Classifications.

Step 3: Understand Eligibility Requirements

To become a licensed general contractor in California, you must:

Be at least 18 years old with a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
Have at least 4 years of verifiable experience at the journey-level or higher in the trade(s) you’re applying for.
- Your experience must be verified by a qualified individual (e.g., former employer or supervisor).
Pass two exams:
- Law and Business: Covers legal, safety, and financial aspects of contracting.
- Trade-Specific Exam: For the General Building Contractor License (Class B).

Step 4: Apply for the License

Complete the Application:
- Use the “Application for Original Contractor License” form available here: CSLB Forms and Applications.
Pay the Fees:
- As of 2024, the application fee is $450, and the license fee is $200 (subject to change).

Step 5: Obtain Fingerprinting and Background Check

All applicants must submit fingerprints for a background check through Live Scan.

Step 6: Provide Insurance and Bonding

You’ll need:
1. A $15,000 surety bond (required for all licensed contractors).
2. General Liability Insurance if hiring employees.

Step 7: Study for the Exams

CSLB provides a study guide: Study Guides.
Prep courses are available from private providers if needed.

Step 8: Check Reciprocity

If you hold a contractor’s license from Arizona, Louisiana, or Nevada, California has reciprocity agreements that may simplify your licensing process.

Step 9: Submit Your Application

Once complete, mail your application and fees to CSLB’s headquarters:
CSLB Headquarters
P.O. Box 26000
Sacramento, CA 95826