How to verify a contractor's license in California
Every contractor working on projects over $500 in California must hold a valid CSLB license. Here's how to check and what to look for.
How do I check if my contractor is licensed?
Go to the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) website at cslb.ca.gov or use Opsite's free License Checker tool. Enter the contractor's license number (it should be on their estimate, contract, business card, and advertising - it's required by law). The CSLB will show you: whether the license is active, the classification (Class A, B, or C), bond status, workers comp status, and any disciplinary actions. If a contractor can't provide a license number, that's a major red flag.
What's the difference between Class A, B, and C licenses?
Class A (General Engineering) is for infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, and utilities. Class B (General Building) is for most residential construction - remodels, additions, new homes. This is the most common license for your kitchen or bathroom remodel. Class C licenses are specialty trades: C-10 (Electrical), C-36 (Plumbing), C-39 (Roofing), C-33 (Painting), etc. A general contractor with a Class B license can oversee a project that includes specialty work, but the specialty subs should also be licensed in their trade.
Can I hire an unlicensed contractor for small jobs?
In California, any project costing $500 or more (including labor and materials) requires a licensed contractor. For projects under $500, you can legally hire an unlicensed person, but you lose all CSLB protections - no bond coverage, no complaint process, no guarantee of competence. Even for small jobs, we recommend using licensed contractors. If something goes wrong with an unlicensed contractor, your only recourse is small claims court.
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Related guides in Hiring a Contractor
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