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California — How to Check a Contractor's License

Verify contractor licenses through the Contractors State License Board (CSLB).

Updated April 2026

California Contractor Licensing — Quick Facts

State License Required?
Yes
Licensing Board
Contractors State License Board (CSLB)
Minimum Project Threshold
$1,000 (raised from $500 on Jan 1, 2025 via AB 2622)
Surety Bond Required?
Yes — $25,000 (contractor license bond)

Threshold raised from $500 to $1,000 effective Jan 1, 2025 (AB 2622). Unlicensed exemption requires: no employees hired AND no building permit needed. License number required in all advertising. Finge

State-Specific Details

Threshold raised from $500 to $1,000 effective Jan 1, 2025 (AB 2622). Unlicensed exemption requires: no employees hired AND no building permit needed. License number required in all advertising. Fingerprinting mandatory. 4 years verified experience required. Workers' comp filing with CSLB required by Jan 1, 2026.

California requires contractors to hold a state license for projects exceeding $1,000 (raised from $500 on Jan 1, 2025 via AB 2622) in labor and materials. The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) oversees licensing, complaints, and disciplinary actions.

Step 1: Get the Contractor's License Number

Any legitimate contractor in California should readily provide their license number. It should appear on their business card, vehicle, website, and advertising. If a contractor refuses to share their license number, don't hire them.

Step 2: Verify the License

Use our free California contractor license lookup to verify any license instantly. Enter the contractor's name, business name, or license number and see their current status, classifications, bond info, and complaint history.

When checking the license, verify:

  • Status is "Active" — not expired, suspended, or revoked
  • Name matches — the business name on the license should match who you're hiring
  • Classifications cover your project — a plumbing license doesn't cover electrical work
  • License won't expire during your project

Step 3: Check Bond and Insurance

California requires licensed contractors to carry a surety bond ($25,000 (contractor license bond)). The bond protects consumers if the contractor violates state regulations or abandons a project. Ask the contractor for proof of their bond, and verify it through the Contractors State License Board (CSLB).

Step 4: Check Complaint History

The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) tracks complaints filed against licensed contractors. Before hiring, check if the contractor has any past disciplinary actions, complaints, or violations. Our search tool shows complaint information when available.

What Happens if You Hire an Unlicensed Contractor?

Hiring an unlicensed contractor in California puts you at risk:

  • Your homeowner's insurance may not cover work done by unlicensed contractors
  • You have limited legal recourse if the work is defective
  • No surety bond to file claims against
  • Unpermitted work can cause problems when selling your home
  • No bond protection — the bond is your safety net

How to Report an Unlicensed Contractor in California

If you suspect a contractor is working without a license in California, report them to the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Unlicensed contracting is typically a misdemeanor and carries fines and potential jail time.

Other States

Looking up a contractor in a different state? Visit our state-by-state contractor license lookup page to find the right verification tool for your state.