California hiring guide

How to Verify a California Contractor's License, Bond and Workers' Comp

California contractors are licensed by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). The free CSLB license check shows license status, classifications, the contractor's bond, and workers' compensation details on one page.

Check the license in five steps

1. 1. Get the license number

   California law requires licensed contractors to show their license number on contracts, bids, and advertising. Ask for it before you take a bid seriously.

2. 2. Run the CSLB license check

   Search by license number, business name, or personnel name. Confirm the status is active and the business name and address match your contract.

3. 3. Check the classification

   Classification 'B' is General Building. Specialty work uses 'C' classifications (for example C-39 Roofing, C-10 Electrical, C-36 Plumbing). The classification should fit the work you are hiring for.

4. 4. Read the bond section

   Active licenses must carry a contractor's bond. The CSLB page lists the surety company and bond number — note them in case you ever need to file a claim.

5. 5. Look for disciplinary actions

   The license record shows legal actions and citations. Ask about anything recent before signing.

Confirm insurance coverage

• The CSLB record shows whether the contractor has workers' compensation on file or an exemption because they report no employees. If workers show up on your job, an exemption is a warning sign.
• General liability is not shown on the CSLB page — ask for a certificate of insurance sent directly by the agent and check the dates.
• Very small jobs under the state's minimum dollar amount may not require a license; anything larger does, and splitting a job into small invoices to avoid licensing is illegal.

Red flags to walk away from

• Classification that doesn't match the job
• Expired or suspended license, or a bond that has lapsed
• Workers on site while the license shows a workers' comp exemption
• Pressure for a large down payment before work starts

Browse checked contractors

Every listing in our network carries a live trust score that is re-checked daily.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Licensing rules change — always confirm on the official state lookup.