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.
To do so, go to the CSLB website – .cslb.ca – and submit an application for your CSLB contractor license. You'll receive your examination information, then it's up to you to pass the test and get your license. Passing the CSLB examination the first time is the quickest and cheapest way to get your CSLB license.
After that, you will need to submit your application to the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). The CSLB reviews applications in the order they are received and typically takes four to six weeks to process an application.