California Contractor License Renewal Requirements
When and how to renew a California contractor license, what it costs and what happens if you renew late.
Quick answer
Active licenses expire every two years and inactive licenses every four years. CSLB mails a renewal application about 60 days before expiration, and an acceptable renewal must reach CSLB before the expiration date. The timely active renewal fee is $450 for a sole owner and $700 for other business types ($470 and $720 for C-10).
Renewal Fees
| Renewal | Sole owner | Other business types |
|---|---|---|
| Active, on time | $450 ($470 C-10) | $700 ($720 C-10) |
| Active, late | $675 ($695 C-10) | $1,050 ($1,070 C-10) |
| Inactive, on time | $300 | $500 |
| Inactive, late | $450 | $750 |
How to Renew
- Watch for the renewal application about 60 days before your expiration date.
- If it has not arrived 45 days before expiration, order one online or call (800) 321-CSLB (2752).
- For an active renewal, make sure your bond and workers’ compensation proof or exemption are current.
- Send the completed renewal and fee so CSLB receives it before the expiration date.
- Check your license online to confirm the renewal was processed.
Licensees may also have to pay any outstanding Industry Expert Recovery Fees at renewal.
When You Cannot Renew
- The business entity changed, such as sole owner to corporation
- The corporate registration number changed
- The owner of a sole owner license or a general partner changed
In these cases you must apply for a new license.
Renewing Late
A late renewal costs more and leaves a break in your licensed time, unless CSLB receives the completed renewal and fees within 90 days of expiration, in which case the license is reinstated retroactively. After five years expired, you must reapply. See reinstating an expired license.
Active Duty Military
CSLB waives renewal fees for a license that expires while the licensee is called to active duty, when certain requirements are met.
Content reviewed against CSLB sources: November 2026
- CSLB: General renewal information
- CSLB: Failing to renew your license
- CSLB: List of all fees
- CSLB: Workers’ compensation requirements
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California Contractor License Renewal Requirements: FAQs
Do I need continuing education to renew?
CSLB does not require continuing education hours to renew a contractor license. You do need a current bond and workers’ compensation proof or exemption for an active renewal.
What if I never received my renewal application?
It is still your responsibility to renew. Order a renewal online or call CSLB if it has not arrived 45 days before expiration.
Can I renew my license as inactive?
Yes. An inactive license needs no bond, workers’ compensation or qualifier, renews every four years and cannot be used to contract.