How to Verify a Contractor License in California

Hiring a general contractor for a home remodel or structural repair is a significant financial commitment. In California, it is illegal for anyone to perform contracting work over $500 without an active license from the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Yet, every year, thousands of homeowners sign agreements with unlicensed or improperly licensed builders.

Verifying a license is more than just looking up a number on a business card. To protect your property, you must execute four specific steps on the CSLB portal.

1. Verify Active License Status

First, navigate to the CSLB Check-A-License search page. Enter the contractor’s license number directly. An active license will display a status of "Active." If the status displays "Suspended," "Expired," or "Inactive," do not allow them on your property. Suspension can occur due to unpaid judgments, bond cancellations, or failure to maintain workers' compensation.

2. Check the Classification Match

Licensing classifications dictate the type of work a contractor can legally perform:

• Class A (General Engineering): For fixed works requiring specialized engineering (dams, bridges, roads).
• Class B (General Building): For structures built or being built for support or shelter. Note: A Class B contractor must execute contracts requiring two or more unrelated trades, unless they perform the framing/carpentry themselves.
• Class C (Specialty Contractor): For specific trades (C-10 Electrical, C-36 Plumbing, C-39 Roofing, etc.).

If a contractor is a licensed painter (C-33) but offers to build a structural room addition, they are acting outside their classification limit, which violates state licensing regulations.

"Never sign a contract with a builder who says their classification is 'pending' or who operates under a license belonging to a relative or partner."

3. Inspect the Bond History

Every licensed contractor in California must carry a contractor's surety bond (currently $25,000). The CSLB license detail page lists the active bond carrier, bond number, and effective date. Verify that the bond has not expired.

4. Check Workers' Compensation & Liability Coverage

If the contractor has employees, they must carry Workers' Compensation Insurance. If they claim to have no employees, they can file an exemption. However, if you see crew members working on your home and the contractor has filed an exemption, you could be held liable for any site injuries. Always verify worker coverage details on the CSLB detail sheet.