California Contractor & Trade Licensing Costs (2026)
California has some of the strictest contractor licensing regulations in the US. Any job over $500 (labor and materials) strictly requires a CSLB license. Select a trade classification below to calculate application fees, PSI examination costs, surety bond minimums, and renewal schedules.
Trade License Categories in California
General Contractor
Oversees residential and commercial construction, manages subcontractors, pulls building permits, and coordinates turnkey building projects.
Electrical Contractor
Installs, maintains, and repairs electrical power, communications, lighting, and control systems in homes, businesses, and industrial factories.
Plumbing Contractor
Installs and repairs water supply lines, waste disposal systems, gas piping, and related appliances and fixtures.
HVAC / Mechanical Contractor
Installs and services heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems, adhering to EPA Section 608 refrigerant compliance.
Roofing Contractor
Repairs and installs commercial and residential roofs using shingles, tile, metal, and waterproofing membranes.
Painting Contractor
Applies paints, stains, wall coverings, and protective coatings to interior and exterior surfaces of structures.
Landscape Contractor
Designs, installs, and maintains outdoor living spaces, hardscaping, irrigation lines, and pesticide applications.
Carpentry & Framing Contractor
Constructs, erects, installs, and repairs structures and fixtures made of wood, steel studs, and composite materials.