A California C-39 Roofing Contractor license allows a contractor to install, repair, replace, and remove roofing systems that seal, waterproof, and weatherproof structures. This work protects buildings from water intrusion and weather related damage on residential, commercial, and industrial projects.
Roofing work may involve surface preparation and the use of common roofing and waterproofing materials used to protect structures from the elements.
CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS
Title 16. Professional and Vocational Regulations
Division 8. Contractors’ State License Board
Article 3. Classification
Section 832.39 — Class C-39 — Roofing Contractor
A roofing contractor installs products and repairs surfaces that seal, waterproof and weatherproof structures. This work is performed to prevent water or its derivatives, compounds or solids from penetrating such protection and gaining access to material or space beyond. In the course of this work, the contractor examines and/or prepares surfaces and uses the following material: asphaltum, pitch, tar, felt, glass fabric, urethane foam, metal roofing systems, flax, shakes, shingles, roof tile, slate or any other roofing, waterproofing, weatherproofing or membrane material(s) or a combination thereof.
Authority cited: Sections 7008 and 7059, Business and Professions Code
Reference: Sections 7058 and 7059, Business and Professions Code
Obtaining a California C-39 Roofing Contractor license is a multi step process regulated by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Applicants must meet eligibility requirements, submit an application, pass state exams, and complete final licensing requirements before legally operating as a roofing contractor.
1. Determine Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, you must meet the CSLB’s basic eligibility requirements:
*A qualifying college degree may substitute for up to 3 years of the required experience.
2. Submit an Application
Submit a completed application to the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Applications must be filled out accurately, include the required roofing work experience information, and be accompanied by the $450 application fee for new applications.
3. Pass the Required Examinations
After your application is approved, you will receive instructions from the CSLB to schedule your exams with PSI Exams, the testing provider for California contractor licensing. Applicants must pass two exams:
4. Complete Final Requirements
Before your license can be issued, you must complete the remaining CSLB requirements. These typically include Live Scan fingerprinting, filing a contractor license bond, obtaining workers’ compensation insurance if you have employees, completing the asbestos open book exam, and paying the initial license fee.
5. License Issuance
Once all requirements are met, the CSLB will issue your California C-39 Roofing Contractor license. You will receive your official license number and wall certificate.
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If you are looking for a more detailed walkthrough, this guide breaks down how to obtain a California C-39 Roofing Contractor License, from understanding eligibility and submitting your application to preparing for the exams, bonding, and meeting CSLB compliance requirements. It provides a clear, step by step overview so you know exactly what to expect before you begin.
Our C-39 Roofing Contractor License course is designed to prepare you for the required CSLB examinations. The program covers essential roofing trade concepts, applicable California codes and standards, and business and licensing regulations, providing a clear and organized path to exam readiness and license application.
Prepare your CSLB application independently using our Exclusive iApplication Prep Tool™, Intelligent by Design. This dynamic, guided system collects your information through a series of prompts and generates a completed CSLB application, ready for download, signatures, and submission.
If you want extra peace of mind, you can upgrade to Expert Application Review & Filing. A licensing specialist will review your completed application for accuracy and compliance, and we will file it on your behalf to help reduce delays, rejections, and costly mistakes.
To familiarize yourself with a state testing system, real exam structure, and question formats, you’ll get access to mock tests available online or via our mobile app. They simulate real exam conditions to help you test the waters before state exams.
You’ll get access to comprehensive, well-structured, and illustrated materials covering all related topics for trade and law exams, including study guides, textbooks, online lectures, and live instruction classes, depending on the study option you choose.
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Yes. You must hold a C-39 Roofing Contractor License if you plan to charge $1,000 or more (including labor and materials) for roofing work in California. This requirement applies to the installation, repair, replacement, or waterproofing of roofing systems on residential, commercial, or industrial projects. A license may also be required for projects under $1,000 if the work requires a permit or if additional workers are hired.
To obtain a California C-39 Roofing Contractor License, you must meet the CSLB eligibility requirements, submit an application, pass the required state examinations, and complete all final licensing requirements. This includes documenting qualifying roofing experience, passing the Law and Business exam and the C-39 Roofing trade exam, and meeting bonding and insurance requirements before the license is issued.
The overall timeline depends on CSLB processing and exam scheduling. With focused exam preparation, many applicants are able to complete the licensing process in as little as 2 months, though individual timelines may vary.
A B-General Building contractor may perform roofing work only when it is part of a larger construction project involving multiple trades. When roofing work is performed as a standalone contract, it must be completed by a properly licensed C-39 Roofing Contractor.
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