In California, you need a contractor license to do any work that costs more than $500. The easiest kind of contractor's license is a Class “B” Contractor's License. This license allows you to do general contracting work.
Here are a few ways to get a contractor license without experience in California. Gain Access to an RMO or RME License. Create a Construction Company with a Licensed Contractor. Obtain a Licensing Board Waiver. Grandfathered Contractor's License. Use Other Types of Experience. Start Earning Experience.
How to Get a California Contractor License Who Issues Contractor Licenses in California? Determine the Type of Contractor License You Need. Access California Contractor License Application Forms. Fulfill Requirements and Obtain Required Documents. Submit Your California Contractor License Application. Pass Your Examination.
In order to qualify for a license you are required to take and pass a test administered by the Contractor State License Board. The California contractor license exam is challenging and most people need some outside assistance or study material in order to pass it.
The process of becoming a licensed contractor depends on individual circumstances, such as the amount of relevant experience and the time taken to prepare for the licensing exam, but straight out of high school, with no experience – expect to take at least 5 years until you can become a licensed general contractor.
How To Get a Contractor's License in California in 6 Steps Identify the license classification you need. Meet the basic licensing requirements. Fill out the licensing application. Complete a background check. Pass the California contractor licensing exam. Submit bonding & insurance documents.
The two biggest challenges for obtaining a California general contractor license are passing the exam and paying all the fees. The exam is intentionally difficult, and you are unlikely to pass it without studying. Numerous general contractor license schools can help you prepare for the exam.
Once you've met all the requirements and passed the exam, the CSLB will issue your general contractor license. This typically takes around 4 to 6 weeks after passing the exam. Overall, the estimated timeline for obtaining a general contractor license in California is approximately 3 to 6 months.
In California, you need a contractor license to do any work that costs more than $500. The easiest kind of contractor's license is a Class “B” Contractor's License. This license allows you to do general contracting work.
RMO License One of the most common, and often easiest ways that people without any prior experience can gain access to a contractor license is by utilizing either an “RMO” or “RME.”