The California State License Board (CSLB) maintains a public database of every licensed contractor in the state. Checking a contractor's license takes less than two minutes and is the single most important step you can take before hiring. Here's exactly how to do it.
Step 1: Go to the CSLB License Check Page
Navigate directly to the license lookup tool:
Step 2: Enter the License Number
Type the contractor's license number exactly as provided — numbers only, no spaces or dashes. California contractor license numbers are 6–10 digits. Click Search.
Step 3: Read the Results
A valid result will show several important fields:
License Status
"ACTIVE" is what you want to see. Any other status — Inactive, Expired, Suspended, Canceled, or Revoked — means the contractor is not currently authorized to perform licensed work. Do not proceed.
Business Name
The business name on file should match what the contractor has told you. A significant mismatch warrants clarification before you hire.
License Classification
This tells you what type of work the contractor is licensed to perform. Common classifications include:
- B — General Building Contractor (most residential remodeling)
- C-10 — Electrical
- C-20 — HVAC
- C-27 — Landscaping
- C-36 — Plumbing
- C-39 — Roofing
Make sure the classification covers your project. A plumbing-only contractor cannot legally perform general remodeling work without a B license.
Bond Information
California requires contractors to carry a surety bond of at least $25,000. This bond protects you if the contractor fails to complete the work, causes damage, or violates state law. Confirm the bond is current.
Workers' Compensation
"Exempt" means the contractor has no employees and is a sole operator — acceptable for one-person operations. If the contractor has employees, workers' comp coverage must be current. An injured, uninsured worker on your property could sue you directly.
What "No Record Found" Means
If the CSLB search returns no results for the license number provided, the contractor is not licensed for the work they're offering. This is illegal for most construction projects in California and means you have virtually no legal protection if something goes wrong. Do not hire them.
Check the License History
Click the license number in the results to view the contractor's full license history, including any disciplinary actions, citations, complaints, or arbitration orders. A minor citation years ago may be inconsequential. A pattern of complaints, or a recent suspension, is a serious warning.