Fee payments are accepted only by mail, at CSLB's Sacramento Headquarters (9821 Business Park Drive, Sacramento, CA 95827), and at the offices shown below. Payments are NEVER requested or accepted over the telephone. Payments by mail should be made by check or money order only.
Payment kiosks at CSLB offices statewide are currently unavailable.
Available Payment Options:
Some of the documents below are provided in a Portable Document Format (PDF) file, which can be viewed or printed using your Web browser and Adobe's Acrobat Reader software (How to get the Acrobat Reader).
Some of the documents can be ordered online and will be mailed to you. Just click the Order link and fill out the online order form.
In addition, some of the documents are available below as easy-fill forms/applications that will walk you through how to complete the form or application fully and accurately.
Please note: When using an easy fill form or application make sure you give yourself enough time to complete the entire form in one sitting. You will not be able to save a partially filled form to complete at a later time.
The "Application for Original Contractor License" is for new applicants for all business entity types, including limited liability companies, when experience and examinations are required. This application will result in a new license. Do not use this form if you have an existing license and wish to add a classification or replace the qualifying individual. View a sample "Application for Original Contractor License."
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
This form is to be used to report and confirm the journey-level work experience requirement. Include this form when submitting an "Application for Original Contractor License," "Application for Additional Classification," or "Application for Replacing the Qualifying Individual."
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB.
This form is to be used when submitting an "Application for Original Contractor License," "Application for Additional Classification," or "Application for Replacing the Qualifying Individual," if the experience you claim is from owner-builder work and you are applying for the B-General Building classification. This form is used in addition to the "Certification of Work Experience" submitted with the application. This form must be completed ONLY if the qualifying individual indicates on the Certification of Work Experience form that they obtained experience working on their own property as an owner-builder. One form is required for each completed construction project.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB.
The "Construction Project Experience" form is to be used when submitting an "Application for Original Contractor License," "Application for Additional Classification," or "Application for Replacing the Qualifying Individual" if requested by CSLB. This form is used in addition to the "Certification of Work Experience" submitted with the application. One form is required for each completed construction project.
This form is to be completed and submitted along with the "Application for Original Contractor License" or the "Application for Original Contractor License - Examination Waiver (7065)" when there are additional personnel to report on behalf of the applicant.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB.
CSLB will not deny a license based on a conviction without considering evidence of rehabilitation submitted by an applicant. The form below can be used to assist CSLB in determining whether a crime is substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of a licensee or registrant, as well as to provide rehabilitation information. The form can be used for any plea or conviction within the preceding (7) years and/or a plea or conviction related to a serious felony or financial crime as defined at https://www.cslb.ca.gov/about_Us/faqs/fingerprint_q_and_a.aspx.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB.
In compliance with The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), CSLB provides applicants with ADA-compliant accommodations for taking the examinations. Applicants requesting accommodation must complete the "Accommodation Request for Examination" form (Form 13E-77) and submit it with their application. Verification by a medical authority or learning institution may also be required.
(To be used for Business and Professions Code (BPC) § 7065 waiver only - see criteria below.)
The "Application for Original Contractor License - Examination Waiver (7065)" form is to be used for all business entity types, including limited liability companies, for BPC § 7065 waiver-only applicants (e.g., sole owner applying for a corporate license). BPC § 7065 states, in part, "No examination shall be required of a qualifying individual if, within the five-year period immediately preceding the application for licensure, the qualifying individual has either personally passed the written examination for the same classification being applied for, or has served as the qualifying individual for a licensee whose license was in good standing at any time during the five-year period immediately preceding the application for licensure and in the same classification being applied for."
At any time WITHIN THE LAST FIVE YEARS, has the applicant/qualifying individual:
If yes, this application is appropriate.
If no, please use the "Application for Original Contractor License" when an examination will be required. This application will result in a new license. Do not use this form if you have an existing license and wish to add a classification or replace the qualifying individual.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
The "Application for Replacing the Qualifying Individual" is to be used only for replacing the qualifying individual on an existing license for all business entity types, including limited liability companies (LLC). You can replace qualifying individuals on a sole ownership license with the existing owner or a qualified responsible managing employee (RME); on a partnership with an existing general partner or a qualified RME; on a corporation with a qualified RME or qualified responsible managing officer; and on an LLC with a qualified RME, qualified responsible managing officer, qualified responsible managing member, or qualified responsible managing manager.
Replacement of the qualifier must be made within 90 days of disassociation to avoid a suspension of the license. Notification can be made by the owner, partner, officer, member, manager, or the qualifier who is leaving by using the "Disassociation Request" form. Replacement of the qualifier may be made by submitting the Application for Replacing the Qualifying Individual and appropriate fees.
Qualifiers are limited in the number of additional licenses for which they may qualify. Factors such as common ownership between or among the entities being qualified are considered. Persons granted qualifier status are restricted to qualifying no more than three firms in any one-year period.
An RME must inactivate his or her sole ownership license to qualify for another license and must meet certain employment requirements. On a sole ownership license, the RME may be replaced by the existing owner or by another RME. On a partnership license, the RME may be replaced by an existing general partner or by another RME. Note, however, an additional general partner may not be added to an existing partnership license - a new license would need to be obtained. On a corporate license, the RME may be replaced by a responsible managing officer or another RME. On an LLC license, the RME may be replaced by another RME, a responsible managing officer, responsible managing member, or responsible managing manager.
Failure to replace the disassociated qualifying individual within 90 days from the date of his or her disassociation will result in the automatic suspension of a license that is on active status. If the license has more than one classification and the qualifier for the other class or classes remains on the license, the licensee may continue to operate in the remaining class or classes. The class qualified by the person who disassociated will be removed at the end of the 90 days unless replacement is made within that time.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
The "Application for Additional Classification" is to be used only for adding classifications to an existing license for all business entity types, including limited liability companies. You can add any classification to an existing license for which you have qualifying experience and for which you pass the applicable examination.
Qualifiers are limited in the number of additional licenses for which they may qualify. Factors such as common ownership between or among the entities being qualified are considered. Persons granted qualifier status are restricted to qualifying for no more than three firms in any one-year period.
A responsible managing employee must inactivate his or her sole proprietor license to qualify for another license and must meet certain employment requirements.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Use this form to remove an existing classification from a license. Once the classification is removed, you must submit an "Application for Additional Classification" with the required fee if you wish to add the classification back on the license.
If the business name that appears in CSLB records is not compatible with the remaining classification(s) listed on the license, this form will be rejected. To change the license's business name, complete the "Application to Change Business Name" (form 13L-4).
A joint venture license may be issued to any combination of two or more licenses issued to sole ownerships, partnerships, corporations, limited liability companies, or other joint licenses. The joint venture license may be issued in any classification held by at least one of the entities.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Use this form if you are a currently licensed contractor who performs asbestos-related contracting in relation to the other classification(s) held by the licensee. When a licensee has qualified for this certification, it is added to the license much like an additional classification. To obtain the asbestos certification, a contractor must be registered with the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA).
Please note that this application is not for the asbestos open-book examination that is required for asbestos awareness purposes by all applicants for licensure. (That exam booklet is furnished to applicants with their notices to comply with issuance requirements.)
If you are an existing contactor who wants to add the C-22 Asbestos Abatement classification to perform asbestos abatement work as a stand-alone classification, use the "Application for Additional Classification."
The asbestos certification and the C-22 classification are not required for bidding purposes only, as long as the contractor subcontracts with and the work is performed by a duly licensed asbestos abatement contractor.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Contractors who perform hazardous substance removal work at specific sites and/or who bid for the installation or removal of, or install or remove, underground storage tanks must complete the application for hazardous substances certification to add the certification to their existing licenses. Eligibility for this certification is limited to licensees who hold the "A" General Engineering, "B" General Building, "C-12" Earthwork and Paving, "C-36" Plumbing, "C-57" Well Drilling (Water), or "C-61/D-40" Service Station Equipment and Maintenance (only those licensees who currently hold this classification) license classification.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
The "Application for Registration as a Home Improvement Salesperson" (HIS) is for the registration of a person who will be employed by a licensed contractor to solicit, sell, negotiate, or execute home improvement contracts. An HIS registration is a stand-alone registration that is valid for a two-year period before it must be renewed. Before an HIS registrant can work for a licensed contractor, the contractor must first notify CSLB of their employment of the registered HIS using the "Contractor Notification of Home Improvement Salesperson Employment" form. When an HIS no longer works for a licensed contractor, the contractor is required to notify CSLB of the cessation of HIS' employment using the "Contractor Notification of Home Improvement Salesperson Employment Cessation" form.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this application:
Easy-Fill: Fill in the required fields and submit the information real time into the CSLB system.
PDF: Print a blank application, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the $200 fee.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Pursuant to Business and Professions Code § 7154, contractors must notify the CSLB Registrar in writing of the employment of a registered HIS prior to the HIS beginning work for the contractor. Submission of this completed form to CSLB by a contractor meets that notification requirement.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Online: Fill in the required fields and submit the information real time into the CSLB system.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB.
Pursuant to Business and Professions Code § 7154, contractors must notify the CSLB Registrar in writing within 90 days after the date that a registered HIS ceases to be employed by the contractor. Submission of this completed form to CSLB by a contractor meets that notification requirement.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Online: Fill in the required fields and submit the information real time into the CSLB system.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB.
This form is used to request the voluntary surrender and cancellation of a home improvement salesperson's (HIS) registration. An HIS should complete and submit this form when they no longer wish to have a registration that allows them to function as an HIS. The effective date of cancellation will be the date CSLB receives the form. A contractor may not submit this form. If a contractor ceases to employ an HIS, they must submit the "Contractor Notification of Home Improvement Salesperson Employment Cessation" form.
Contractor License Renewal
The application to renew a contractor license automatically is sent to current licensees by CSLB about 60 days before an expiration date. However, if by four weeks before the expiration date you have not received your renewal, request a duplicate renewal. This can happen if you move without providing CSLB with a current mailing address for the license or if the U.S. Postal Service is not forwarding your mail. If you order another renewal, please be sure to indicate the current address. A license can be renewed as a delinquent renewal for up to five (5) years after it expires, as long as there is no change of ownership of the license-that is, the renewing license will have the same owner, or same partners, or same corporation, or same limited liability company as was previously licensed. When ordering a renewal, you will be asked for the license number.
Home Improvement Salesperson Registration Renewal
The application to renew a Home Improvement Salesperson (HIS) registration automatically is sent to current registrants by CSLB about 60 days before an expiration date. However, if by four weeks before the expiration date you have not received your renewal, request a duplicate renewal. This can happen if you move without providing CSLB with a current mailing address for the license or if the U.S. Postal Service is not forwarding your mail. If you order another renewal, please be sure to indicate the current address. An HIS registration can be renewed as a delinquent renewal for up to three (3) years after it expires. When ordering a renewal, you will be asked for the HIS registration number.
This form is to be completed by the judgment creditor or the judgment creditor's authorized representative seeking the suspension of a contractor's license due to nonpayment of a final judgment. (A "judgment creditor" is the person or persons on behalf of whom a judgment ordering an individual or business entity to pay a sum of money has been entered.)
This form should not be submitted to CSLB for processing until after the judgment is final. CSLB may only consider judgments that are substantially related to the construction activities of a licensee or to the qualifications, functions, or duties of the contractor's license (see Title 16, Division 8 of the California Code of Regulations section 868).
To inactivate your contractor license, use the "Application to Inactivate Contractor's License." There is no fee for inactivating your license if you return your current pocket license card with the application. If your current pocket license card is lost or destroyed, you must enclose the $25 fee to replace it.
The holder of an inactive license is not entitled to practice as a contractor or submit a bid for work.
Do not use this form to renew your license as inactive; instead, use a renewal application.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
A license that is currently renewed but is on inactive status may be restored to active status by filing the "Application to Reactivate Inactive State Contractor's License." Some restrictions apply; these are explained on the application. If you consider your license to be "inactive" but it actually has expired and the expiration date is within five years, order a renewal application. If your license expired more than five years ago, you must file an original application and request the license number be reassigned.
This application should be completed only to add new personnel of record to an existing corporate license (officer only) or to an existing limited liability company (LLC) license (officer, manager, or member only). Only one officer, manager, or member may be added per form; each additional personnel must use a separate form. This form cannot be used to replace the qualifying individual, to report officer or personnel title changes, or to disassociate personnel from a license; use other appropriate forms for those purposes.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
This application should be completed only to change the title of a current officer or personnel already on record for an existing corporate license (officer only) or for an existing limited liability company (LLC) license (officer, manager, or member only). Only one officer or personnel title may be changed per form; each additional officer or personnel must use a separate form. This form cannot be used to replace the qualifying individual, to add new personnel, or to disassociate personnel from a license; use other appropriate forms for those purposes.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB.
This application should only be completed to add a new limited partner to an existing limited partnership license. A limited partner is responsible for a business only in proportion to his or her financial interest and does not take part in the business' day-to-day operation. A limited partnership license must have at least one limited partner. If there is only one limited partner on the license and they disassociate, the limited partner must be replaced within 90 days of disassociation to avoid retroactive cancellation of the license.
This application cannot be used to add, remove, or change a general partner. Removing or adding general partners results in the cancellation of the license and requires the new partnership structure to apply for a new license.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Use this form if you are a licensee or personnel on record with a license, and want to report changes to your mailing address(es) or to personnel address(es) listed on the license.
There is no fee to change business or personnel addresses.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
The application for changing a salesperson's address is for use by home improvement salespersons who need to report changes in their mailing and/or residential addresses.
There is no fee to change your address.
To order a new pocket registration card, complete the appropriate sections on this form.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Use this form if you are a licensee or applicant and want to make allowable changes to your business name(s). If a business name is changed, it must reflect the type of business you operate and the classification in which you are licensed. For example, a sole ownership license cannot add the word "Corporation" to the business name.
Copies of the wall certificate and/or pocket card may be ordered by the license holder only. To order copies, complete the appropriate sections on this form.
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Use this form if you have recently had a change to your legal name and need to update your personnel records on your license as required by BPC section 7083. Submit the completed form and required documentation for the legal name change. If the business name of your license is your personal name, you can change the business name by submitting the Application to Change Contractors Business Name form with the proper fees after completing your personnel name change.
If you want to change your name as part of the Safe at Home program or to conform with gender identity, please go to Name and Gender Change Notification and Request for Confidentiality (SB 372, 2023) - Department of Consumer Affairs and complete the process via the online portal
There are currently 3 ways to complete this form:
Easy-Fill: Fill out the form online, then print and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB with the appropriate fee.
Use this form to notify CSLB of the disassociation of a general partner, qualifying partner, officer, member, responsible managing officer (RMO), responsible managing employee (RME), responsible managing member (RMM), or responsible managing manager (RMG). This notice must be received at CSLB Headquarters within 90 days after the effective date of the disassociation. If the notice is received after 90 days, the date CSLB receives it will be used as the disassociation date. This may result in the suspension or cancellation of the license or the removal of a classification from the license, effective that date. (BPC § 7076, 7068.2, and 7083)
DISASSOCIATION OF A GENERAL PARTNER OR QUALIFYING PARTNER
If a general or qualifying partner disassociates from a license, it results in the cancellation of the partnership license. Pursuant to BPC § 7076, the remaining partner(s) may request a continuance to complete projects in progress.
DISASSOCIATION OF AN RME, RMO, RMM, or RMG
When an RME, RMO, RMM, or RMG disassociates from a license, the licensee or the RME, RMO, RMM, or RMG must notify CSLB in writing. The licensee must replace the qualifier within 90 days of the disassociation date. Failure to replace the qualifier within 90 days results in the automatic suspension of the license or removal of the classification. If a licensee is unable to replace the RME, RMO, RMM, or RMG within the 90-day period, a 90-day extension can be requested. An extension request will only be considered if received within 90 days from the date of CSLB's notice that the license will be suspended or the classification removed, if an application has been made to CSLB to replace the qualifying individual, and if one or more of the following circumstances apply:
This form must be received at CSLB Headquarters within 90 days after the death/disassociation of personnel or the dissolution, merger or surrender of a corporation's right to do business in California. Failure to notify CSLB within 90 days will cause the license to be canceled, effective the date CSLB receives this form. A request for a continuance must be made in writing and received at CSLB Headquarters within 90 days of the death/disassociation of personnel. (BPC § 7076)
A responsible managing employee or limited partner cannot submit or sign this form.
This form is to be used pursuant BPC § 7076 - see criteria below.
All licenses on active status and all applicants for issuance of the license must file evidence of workers' compensation insurance or exemption from the requirements. The Certificate of Workers' Compensation Insurance is provided by the workers' compensation insurer. This process was created by CSLB to allow insurers to fill in and submit Workers' Compensation policy requirements through the CSLB Website, directly into the database. This documentation can only be submitted by an insurer duly licensed to write workers' compensation insurance in this state.
Note: You cannot use this form if this is a cancellation, or if the insurer is a leasing company. You will need to continue to submit these certificates by mail.
Online: Only an insurer duly licensed to write workers' compensation insurance in this state should submit this form.
All licenses on active status and all applicants for issuance of the license must file evidence of workers' compensation insurance or an exemption from the requirements.
If you are an out-of-state licensee who holds a C-8 Concrete classification, C-20 Warm-Air Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning classification, C-22 Asbestos Abatement classification, C-39 Roofing classification, C-61/D-49 Tree Service classification and/or has a RME and your employees do not reside in California, please use the printable pdf exemption form 13L-50. You must submit the completed exemption form with your certificate of insurance from your home-state workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
You must be an owner, partner, officer, member or manager to file an Exemption.
If you are a California licensed contractor, but reside out of state and have Workers' Compensation in that State, you can fill out the Exemption form using this process, however, when prompted, you will need to print, email, or save the document to your own device. You cannot submit the document online, the exemption and the out of state certificate must be submitted by mail.
Online: Fill in the required fields and submit the information real time into the CSLB system.
PDF: Print a blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB.
Order: Receive a blank form by mail, fill it out and mail it to CSLB.
If a licensee can show that failure to have a current Workers' Compensation Insurance Certificate on file was due to circumstances beyond his or her control, the CSLB can accept the certificate as of its effective date, even though it was not received by CSLB within 90 days after that date. CSLB can then reinstate the license, if otherwise eligible, retroactive to the certificate's effective date.
Please only use the "Request for Workers' Compensation Certificate Acceptance" (Form 13L-49) if you intend to petition the registrar to accept a certificate of workers' compensation insurance that was not received by the CSLB within 90 days after the effective date of the certificate.
$1 Million Liability Insurance Minimum
Liability insurance with the cumulative limit of at least $1 million for licensees with five or fewer persons listed as members of the personnel of record is required. Also, an additional $100,000 is required for each additional member of the personnel of record, not required to exceed $5 million total. (B&P Code section 7071.19)
B&P Code section 7071.19 (c) requires that LLC liability insurance policies be written by insurers that are "duly licensed by this state or an eligible surplus line insurer." According to the legal office of the California Department of Insurance (CDI), the only insurers that are duly licensed by the State of California are admitted insurers that are licensed by CDI, searchable on their website under Insurance Company Profiles. Eligible surplus line insurers include those listed on CDI's List of Approved Surplus Line Insurers (LASLI) and other eligible carriers as determined by law.
Note: You cannot use this form if this is a cancellation. Please submit cancellations to workerscomp@cslb.ca.gov for review.
Online: Only an insurer duly licensed to write insurance in this state should submit this form.
To qualify for an exemption from the Bond of Qualifying Individual (BQI) requirement, the responsible managing officer, responsible managing manager, or responsible managing member must own 10% or more of the voting stock or equity of the corporation or LLC. A "Qualifier Statement of Ownership" form must be submitted to establish the exemption. Note: All responsible managing employees must have BQIs and cannot qualify for the exemption.
The responsible managing officer, responsible managing manager, responsible managing member, or qualifying partner must own at least 20% of each firm for which he/she is the qualifier in order to maintain an active individual license. A Qualifier Statement of Ownership form must be submitted to verify the ownership percentage. If the 20% ownership requirement is not met, the qualifier's individual license must be inactivated.
A contractor's bond is required for the issuance of an active license, reactivation of a license, and for the maintenance of an actively renewed license. The bond is filed for the benefit of consumers who may be damaged as a result of defective construction or other license violations, and for the benefit of employees who have not been paid wages that are due to them. The bond must be written on a form approved by CSLB, by a surety company licensed and authorized to write surety bonds through the California Department of Insurance.
( Order ) - Only authorized surety companies may order the approved Contractor's Bond form.
A bond of qualifying individual (BQI) is required, in addition to the Contractor Bond, if the qualifier is a responsible managing employee (RME). A BQI is also required if the qualifier is a responsible managing officer, responsible managing manager, or responsible managing member with less than 10 percent ownership of the voting stock or equity of the corporation or limited liability company (LLC) for which he/she is qualifying. The bond must be written on a form approved by CSLB, by a surety company licensed and authorized to write surety bonds through the California Department of Insurance.
( Order ) - Only authorized surety companies may order the approved Bond of Qualifying Individual form.
To qualify for an exemption from the BQI requirement, the responsible managing officer, responsible managing manager, or responsible managing member must own 10 percent or more of the voting stock or equity of the corporation or LLC. A "Qualifier Statement of Ownership" form must be submitted to establish the exemption. Note: All RMEs must have BQIs and cannot qualify for the exemption.
An LLC employee/worker bond is required, in addition to the contractor bond, for the issuance of an active license, reactivation of a license, and for the maintenance of an actively renewed license when the business entity is an LLC. The bond is filed for the benefit of any employee or worker damaged by the LLC's failure to pay wages, interest on wages, or fringe benefits, as well as other contributions. The bond must be written on a form approved by CSLB, by a surety company licensed and authorized to write surety bonds through the California Department of Insurance.
( Order ) - Only authorized surety companies may order the approved LLC Employee/Worker Bond form.
If a licensee can show that failure to have a bond on file was due to circumstances beyond his or her control, CSLB can accept the bond as of the effective date, even though it was not received by CSLB within 90 days of that date. CSLB then can reinstate the license, if otherwise eligible, retroactive to the bond's effective date. (BPC § 7071.7)
CSLB will only accept a cashier’s check or a bank-certified check in the requisite amount as an alternative to a contractor bond, bond of qualifying individual, LLC employee/worker bond or disciplinary bond. All cash alternatives to bonds must be retained by CSLB for three years after the end of the last license period for which it provides coverage, or three years following license inactivation, expiration, cancellation or revocation, whichever occurs first.
The "Request for Current Bond Information" form is used to obtain information on a license's current surety bonds; the fee is $8 and must accompany the request. "Current" bond status covers the last three years. Individuals who intend to make a claim against a contractor bond or cash deposit should submit a "Request for Current Bond Information." To obtain additional surety bond history, use the "Request for Certified License History" (form 13L-2b).
CSLB can provide copies of public records or other records from which personal or confidential information, such as birth dates, Social Security numbers, residence addresses, experience records, and financial information will be redacted (deleted).
Copies of investigation reports normally cannot be released. However, copies of legal actions, such as the formal case accusation and decision, or citations may be provided.
Copies of the contractor bonds and other documents, with personal or confidential information deleted, may be obtained from a licensee's file. There is a $0.10 per page charge for copies. Certification of a copied document costs $2 plus $0.10 per page. Licensees may request copies of documents from their own files without charge, unless they want the copies certified. Subpoenas for any of CSLB's documents or records must be personally served on the Custodian of Records of the Contractors Board at the headquarters office location, 9821 Business Park Drive, Sacramento, CA 95827. If you want to request copies of documents or inquire about the availability of copies of specific types of documents, send a written inquiry to CSLB, P.O. Box 26000, Sacramento, CA 95826.
A general status letter provides current information about a license. A fee of $8 must accompany your request for a general status letter. The information includes the business name and address, classifications held, owners, partners, or officers and qualifying persons, and current standing. The general status letter does not contain license history or bond information. Please allow two to three weeks for a response.
A Verified Certificate is a certified license history covering a specific time period. The Verified Certificate is used mainly for court actions involving contractors, and is admissible in court as prima facie evidence of the facts stated on the certificate. The document covers the last three years of the license status, unless otherwise requested. The Verified Certificate contains the contractor's business name and address, trade classifications held, license issuance date, license personnel, bond information (if requested), any enforcement actions taken against the license, and the license status during the time period covered by the certificate. The fee for each verified certificate is $67. Allow about six-to-eight weeks for a response.
A Verified Certificate of Home Improvement Salesperson provides the salesperson's registration number, the business name and license number of the home improvement contractor with whom the salesperson is registered, and the issuance and expiration dates of the registration. If the person is not registered as a home improvement salesperson, or not registered with a specific contractor, a "no record" certificate is issued. This document is admissible in court as prima facie evidence of the facts stated in the history.
Your request should include as much information as you have about the salesperson (name, address, registration number, etc.). The fee for each Verified Certificate is $67. Allow about six-to-eight weeks for a response.
The “License Verification Request” form is for contractors who have been licensed in a state that has a reciprocal license agreement with California. Currently, California has reciprocity with Arizona, Louisiana, and Nevada. If a contractor has held a valid license in one of these states for the past five years and is applying for a similar license in California, he/she may be eligible for a waiver of the trade exam. The bottom portion of the License Verification Request form must be completed by the licensing agency in the state where the contractor was previously licensed.
CSLB can provide the public with the nature of complaints that have been investigated and referred for legal action and any legal action CSLB has taken against a license.
The fact that a complaint against a contractor has been referred for legal action does not mean that the contractor has necessarily committed a violation of California Contractors' State License Law; no conclusion or judgments as to the validity of the charges should be assumed until the legal action has been completed.
After you have checked the license information for a particular contractor and if the status information indicated a past or pending legal action, you can call CSLB's legal action disclosure number nearest your construction location for further details.
Northern Case Management (916) 255-4041
Southern Case Management (562) 345-7656
A Certificate of Non-License is a prepared statement of the absence of a license during a given time period, also called a "No Record Verified Certificate." The Certificate of Non-License is used mainly for court actions involving contractors, and is admissible in court as prima facie evidence of the facts stated on the certificate. To identify the non-licensed subject, you will need to provide the person's full name, business name, and address, if available. The document covers the last three years, unless otherwise requested (up to a maximum of 10 years). The fee for each verified certificate is $67. Allow about six-to-eight weeks for a response.
No-Cost downloadable lists are available on our Public Data Portal. Click here to review our data options.
Please review the information below carefully.
Use the following links to obtain an order form: ( PDF | Order )
There is a $245 non-refundable fee for this service. With this form, you may order license information within specified parameters, including:
With This Order, You Will Receive:
You will NOT Receive:
Review the Record Layout (PDF) to ensure this is the data you require.
The number of records provided in the order depends on the parameters set by the requestor.
Use the following links to obtain an order form: ( PDF )
There is a $245 non-refundable fee for this service.
With this form, you may order a list of Home Improvement Salespersons (HIS) by status and location. The data provided will include: registrant’s name, address, telephone number, registration issue/expiration dates, status, and current contractor associations.
A home improvement salesperson (HIS) is defined as a person who is employed by a licensed contractor to solicit, sell, negotiate, or execute contracts under which home improvements may be performed, a swimming pool constructed, or home improvement goods or services installed or furnished. Once properly registered with CSLB, he/she may work for any number of contractors and sell a variety of goods and services. This is NOT a list of licensed contractors.
The number of records provided in the order depends on the parameters set by the requestor.
Review the Record Layout (PDF) to ensure this is the data you require.
No-Cost downloadable lists are available on our Public Data Portal. Click here to review our data options.
Use the following links to obtain an order form: ( PDF | Order )
There is a $235 non-refundable fee for each file ordered. With this form, you may order FULL and/or UPDATE files of the CSLB's license database. Files are provided in Text File format, NOT Excel.
IMPORTANT
Review the Record Layout to ensure this is the data you require.
LICENSE MASTER FILE
(PDF) License Master File Record Layout
BUSINESS PRINCIPLE FILE
(PDF) Business Principle File Record Layout
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION FILE / LLC LIABILITY INSURANCE FILE
ACTION CODES FILE / COMPLAINT DISCLOSURE LEGAL ACTION FILE
(PDF) Workers’ Compensation File Record Layout
(PDF) LLC liability Insurance File Record Layout
(PDF) Action Codes File Record Layout
(PDF) Complaint Disclosure Legal Action File Record Layout
Use this form to make suggestions or to file a complaint concerning the services provided by CSLB. This is not the form to file a complaint against a contractor.
Use this form to request a CSLB speaker for a function or event at least three (3) weeks in advance.
Building Departments use this form to notify CSLB about unlicensed activity, contractors working without workers' compensation insurance, and building code violations.
This form is to be used if you are an employer who was issued a Stop Order and wish to protest the order. You must file this written request within 20 days after the order is served. The hearing shall be held within five business days of filing the request. CSLB will notify the employer of the time and place of the hearing by mail. Once you have completed and signed the form, you can return it by mail or facsimile to:
CSLB
Attn: Stop Order Coordinator
9821 Business Park Drive
Sacramento, CA 95827
Fax: (916) 369-7265
CSLB's complaint process is designed to protect the public in matters pertaining to construction and to assist in the resolution of construction-related complaints. CSLB addresses violations of California Contractors License Law, whether the contractor is licensed or unlicensed, for up to four years from the date of the act.
Use this form if you are a homeowner, other contractor, subcontractor, or employee who wants to file a complaint against a contractor. Public agencies also may file complaints using this form.
CSLB's complaint process is designed to protect the public in matters pertaining to construction and to assist in the resolution of construction-related complaints. CSLB addresses violations of California Contractors License Law, whether the contractor is licensed or unlicensed, for up to four years from the date of the act.
Use this form if you are a consumer, other contractor, or subcontractor who wants to file a complaint against a contractor regarding a solar project.
CSLB's complaint process is designed to protect the public in matters pertaining to construction and to assist in the resolution of construction-related complaints.
The methods to advertise a business can take many forms: newspapers and radio, business cards, lettering on a vehicle, brochures, directories like the yellow pages, a contract proposal, and any website or post that solicits construction on the Internet in the state of California.
Use this form to report an unlicensed contractor who is advertising illegally.
Advertising Complaint form ( PDF-English | PDF-Spanish )
Building permits are required by law as a public safety measure. Permits ensure that construction is performed in compliance with state and local codes, including safety standards. Since 2010, CSLB has accelerated enforcement of building permit violations.
Failure to obtain a building permit is a violation of California Contractors License Law. Further, construction performed without a permit can expose a homeowner to additional liability and costs. When a contractor performs work without the required permit, it is a violation of Business and Professions Code sections 7110 and 7090. Contractors who violate the law are subject to disciplinary action by CSLB, including assessment of civil penalties of up to $8,000 per violation, an order of correction to pay the cost of permit fees, as well as any assessed penalties imposed by the local building department, and suspension or revocation of the license.
If you suspect a violation has occured, please fill out a "Permit Violation Form." CSLB will contact the contractor regarding the permit allegation and take the appropriate disciplinary action.
Use the SWIFT Lead Referral form to file a complaint against an unlicensed contractor who is ACTIVELY working on a construction project. Complaints against unlicensed contractors may be filed with the board by other public agencies, other contractors, subcontractors, homeowners, and employees. Complaints within the board's jurisdiction involve licensed contractors and unlicensed operators.
It is illegal for an unlicensed person to perform contracting work on any project for which the contract price is $500 or more in combined labor and materials costs.
In general, the board has jurisdiction over licensed and unlicensed contractor complaints for up to four years from the time the alleged damage occurred.
The lead form should be complete and provide detailed information regarding the unlicensed activity. Please indicate if there are employees on the project. The more information and evidence (including photos), the better.
After completing the form, fax or mail it to the appropriate SWIFT office, based on the county where the alleged unlicensed activity is taking place.
Northern SWIFT | Central SWIFT | Southern SWIFT | |
---|---|---|---|
Alameda County | Placer County | Fresno County | Imperial County |
Alpine County | Plumas County | Inyo County | Los Angeles County |
Amador County | Sacramento County | Kern County | Orange County |
Butte County | San Francisco County | Kings County | Riverside County |
Calaveras County | San Joaquin County | Madera County | San Bernardino County |
Colusa County | San Mateo County | Mariposa County | San Diego County |
Contra Costa County | Santa Clara County | Merced County | Ventura County |
Del Norte County | Shasta County | Mono County | |
El Dorado County | Sierra County | Monterey County | |
Glenn County | Siskiyou County | San Benito County | |
Humboldt County | Solano County | San Luis Obispo County | |
Lake County | Sonoma County | Santa Barbara County | |
Lassen County | Stanislaus County | Santa Cruz County | |
Marin County | Sutter County | Tuolumne County | |
Mendocino County | Tehama County | Tulare County | |
Modoc County | Trinity County | ||
Napa County | Yolo County | ||
Nevada County | Yuba County |
Northern SWIFT
9821 Business Park Drive
Sacramento, CA 95827
Office numbers (916) 255-2924 / Fax (916) 369-7265
Email Northern Swift
Central SWIFT
1277 E. Alluvial Avenue, Suite 106
Fresno, CA 93720
Office numbers (559) 490-0580 / Fax (559) 447-1492
Email Central SWIFT
Southern SWIFT
12501 East Imperial Highway, Suite 610
Norwalk, CA 90650
Office numbers (562) 345-7600 / Fax (562) 466-6065
Email Southern SWIFT
Please note: Complaints regarding COMPLETED construction projects should not be reported on a "SWIFT Lead Referral" form; instead use the Complaint form.
Complaints are processed according to the date of receipt, priority, and staff availability if the job site is located in a remote area. The complaint will be assigned to an Enforcement division representative for follow-up.
For more information regarding CSLB's Forms and Applications section, contact CSLB's Licensing Information Center at (800) 321-2752.
A Certificate of Non-Registration is a prepared statement of the absence of a registration during a given time period, also called a “No Record Verified Certificate.” The Certificate of Non-Registration is used mainly for court actions, involving contractors and/or registrants, and is admissible in court as prima facie evidence of the facts stated on the certificate. To identify the non-registered subject, you will need to provide the salesperson’s full name, address, business name associated with (if applicable), and license number, if available. The document covers the last three years, unless otherwise requested (up to a maximum of 10 years). The fee for each verified certificate is $67. Allow about six-to-eight weeks for a response.
As of January 1, 2019, licensees and insurers are required to report to CSLB within a specified timeframe knowledge of certain civil actions that resulted in a judgment, settlement, payment, or award of $1,000,000 or more related to construction activities on a multifamily residential structure. Click here for more detailed information about the reporting requirements.
PDF - Licensees: Print blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB
PDF - Insurers: Print blank form, then fill it out and mail it to CSLB