What does it mean to be a California licensed contractor

The State of California has ridged requirements for licensing individuals to provide services to the consumer. Doctors and Lawyers must complete educational requirements and pass State examinations. Real-estate Brokers and Insurance Brokers must complete educational requirements, have experience in the field, and must successfully pas the State exams. To become a licensed contractor there are minimum established requirements.

Most of us in the CID industry understand the importance of using State Licensed Contractors to perform necessary work on our associations. Few recognize what is involved in securing the License. The State recognizes both education and experience are necessary to comply with the laws regulating the construction industry.

General requirements:

  • Four years experience working as a Journeyman, Foreman, or Supervisor in a trade or general construction.
  • One and one half years of credit may be allowed for an AA degree in related education.
  • Two years of credit may be allowed for a four year college degree in related education.
  • Certificates validating education and experience are required to apply.

Upon approval of the application, a notice is sent with a date to take the State examination. The exam comes in two categories, Law and Business based on the California Civil Code, and Construction based on the Uniform Building Code. Once the exam is successfully passed the applicant must pay the appropriate license fees, post a Bond of $ 7,500.00, secure the required Workman's Comp Insurance Certificate, and prove minimum working capital of $ 2,500.00. The License is issued for two years and must be renewed upon expiration to continue as a Licensed Contractor.

Do not get caught submitting bid submissions from contractors who's license is expired or has been revoked. When securing bid submissions from Contractors it is wise to check the current status of their license. Over the internet, simply go to www.cslb.ca.gov ( book mark this page) and click on the license status icon. Enter the Contractors license number. You will see the current status and type of license, the date issued, the expiration date, workman's comp carrier and the Bond insurer. Print the information and clip it to the bid submission. When you submit this information at your association board meeting, the board knows you have done your homework. It is quick, easy, and there are no phone calls.