California Contractor & Trade License Requirements
California requires statewide contractor licensing through the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). All trades follow the same licensing framework with a Law & Business exam plus a trade-specific exam. The CSLB issues over 60 license classifications under Class A (General Engineering), Class B (General Building), and Class C (Specialty) categories.
General Contractor
RequiredExperience4 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$699
Electrician
RequiredExperience4 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$699
Plumber
RequiredExperience4 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$699
HVAC Technician
RequiredExperience4 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$699
Roofing Contractor
RequiredExperience4 years
ExamYes
Est. Cost$699
Reciprocity Agreements
California has reciprocity agreements with 4 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams.
arizona — Trade exam waived if CA license active 5+ years
louisiana — Trade exam waived if CA license active 5+ years
nevada — Trade exam waived if CA license active 5+ years
north carolina — Trade exam waived if CA license active 5+ years