How to Verify a Contractor License in California

Why You Should Always Verify a California Contractor License

Hiring an unlicensed contractor in California is one of the most common and costly mistakes homeowners make. California law requires any contractor performing work valued at $500 or more in labor and materials to hold a valid license from the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Without this license, you have no guarantee of minimum competency, no bond protection if the work goes wrong, and limited legal recourse if a dispute arises.

The CSLB processes thousands of complaints each year against both licensed and unlicensed contractors. Licensed contractors must carry a $25,000 contractor bond and, if they have employees, workers' compensation insurance. If a licensed contractor damages your property or fails to complete a job, you have access to the CSLB's dispute resolution process and potential recovery from their bond. None of these protections exist with an unlicensed operator.

Beyond financial protection, verifying a license confirms that the contractor has passed trade exams, met experience requirements, and maintains ongoing insurance. It takes just a few seconds to check and can save you thousands of dollars and months of headaches.

What You Need to Check a California Contractor License

To verify a contractor license in California, you only need one piece of information: the contractor's name, business name, or license number. If you have the license number, that provides the most precise results. However, a name search works well if you don't have the number handy.

Here's what you should have ready before starting your search:

The contractor's full legal name or business name as it appears on their paperwork. Their license number, which is typically a 6-7 digit number often displayed on their business card, truck, or estimate. The type of work you need done, so you can confirm the license classification matches your project. For example, a C-10 license covers electrical work, while a B license covers general building contractors.

How to Verify Using LicensedCheck

The fastest way to verify a California contractor license is through LicensedCheck. Simply visit the California contractors page and enter the contractor's name or license number. Within seconds, you'll see their full license profile including current status, license classification, bond information, and any disciplinary history.

LicensedCheck pulls data directly from official CSLB records and presents it in an easy-to-read format. You can also browse all licensed contractors in California by profession, city, or status — making it easy to find verified professionals in your area.

How to Verify Directly Through the CSLB

You can also verify licenses directly through the CSLB website at cslb.ca.gov. Navigate to the "Check a License" tool and enter the contractor's license number or name. The CSLB lookup provides license status, classification, bonding information, workers' compensation insurance status, and disciplinary actions.

The CSLB also offers a phone verification service at 1-800-321-CSLB (2752), which is useful if you prefer to speak with someone directly or are having trouble with the online system.

Understanding California License Classifications

California uses a detailed classification system for contractor licenses. The three main types are A (General Engineering), B (General Building), and C (Specialty). Under the C category, there are over 40 specialty classifications including C-10 (Electrical), C-36 (Plumbing), C-20 (HVAC), C-39 (Roofing), and C-33 (Painting).

When you verify a license, make sure the classification matches the type of work you need. A contractor with only a C-36 plumbing license cannot legally perform electrical work, even if they claim they can. If your project involves multiple trades, you may need a B (General Building) contractor who can oversee the entire project and hire appropriately licensed subcontractors.

Red Flags to Watch For

When reviewing a contractor's license information, watch for these warning signs. An expired or inactive license means the contractor cannot legally perform work — even if they were previously licensed. A history of disciplinary actions, especially multiple complaints or license suspensions, suggests a pattern of problems. Missing or lapsed workers' compensation insurance is a serious red flag because you could be liable if a worker is injured on your property.

Be especially cautious of contractors who ask for cash payments only, refuse to provide a written contract, demand large upfront deposits exceeding $1,000 or 10% of the contract price (whichever is less, as limited by California law), or pressure you to pull your own building permits. All of these are common tactics used by unlicensed or unscrupulous operators.

What to Do If a Contractor Is Unlicensed

If you discover that a contractor who solicited you or is performing work at your home is unlicensed, you have several options. First, do not make any further payments. Under California Business and Professions Code Section 7031, an unlicensed contractor cannot enforce a contract or collect payment for work performed. You may even be entitled to recover money already paid.

You can file a complaint with the CSLB, which investigates unlicensed contracting activity. You can also report the contractor to your local district attorney's office, as performing contracting work without a license is a misdemeanor in California that can carry fines up to $15,000 and imprisonment.