Here is the list of typical fees that you will incur when applying for your initial contractors license.
Shared costs for all four entity types.
Paid to CSLB when you submit your application.
Paid directly to PSI for each attempt.
Paid directly to PSI for each attempt.
Per person required to fingerprint. Provider fees vary.
After passing, before your license is issued.
Pay one fee to CSLB, based on your business entity.
Premium estimate for a $25,000 bond.
Bond estimate: The ≈ $139/year contractor bond premium is the estimate shown on our current fees page. It does not apply to C-39 Roofing or C-53 Swimming Pool bonds. Actual premiums depend on underwriting. Bond amounts are coverage amounts, not the price you pay.
Exam fees: Estimates assume one Law & Business exam and one Trade exam. For C-61 Limited Specialty, subtract $51.43 because no Trade exam is required. Retakes are $51.43 per exam.
LLC Employee/Worker Bond: After the exams, LLCs must provide an additional $100,000 bond before an active license is issued. This is the coverage amount, not the premium you pay. A quote is required.
General Liability Insurance (LLCs): LLCs must carry at least $1 million in coverage before an active license is issued. The required limit depends on personnel of record. A quote is required.
Workers’ Compensation: Premiums vary based on your employees, qualifier, and classification. An exemption may be available, but some classifications require coverage even without employees.
Other costs that may apply: A separate $25,000 Bond of Qualifying Individual may be required, depending on your qualifier. Its premium is additional. These estimates exclude business formation, entity taxes, course tuition, additional classifications, and optional services. Live Scan costs are per person; multiple personnel may need fingerprinting.
Read the Blog: California Contractor License Cost Breakdown
Plan for the $450 CSLB application fee, $51.43 for each PSI exam, about $75 for Live Scan fingerprinting, a $200 initial license fee for a Sole Owner or $350 for other entities, and a yearly bond premium. Exam prep and business setup are extra.
No. $25,000 is the bond amount, not the price. You pay a yearly premium to a surety company, and the premium depends on underwriting.
An LLC must also provide a $100,000 LLC Employee/Worker Bond and carry at least $1 million in general liability insurance before CSLB issues an active license.
Questions about the fees for your business? Call 1-800-425-7570.
