CSLB Exam Preparation: The Complete Guide

The Two CSLB Exams

The qualifying individual must pass the Law and Business exam, which is the same for every classification, and the trade exam for the classification on the application. The C-61 Limited Specialty is the one exception: it has no trade exam. See what is on the CSLB exam.

How the Exams Work

• Two exams for most applicants: Law and Business, plus the trade exam for your classification (C-61 applicants take only Law and Business).
• Taken in person on a computer at a PSI test center. Online testing is not offered.
• Multiple choice with four choices and one BEST answer. Some questions involve math or refer to drawings.
• Closed book. A calculator is provided at the test center.
• Three and a half hours for each exam. There is no penalty for guessing.
• You receive a printed pass or fail report before you leave.

Step by Step Preparation

1. Download your study guides. CSLB publishes one for Law and Business and one for each trade. See the Law and Business study guide and trade exam study guide.
2. Start with the heaviest sections. On the Law and Business exam, Contract Requirements (21%) and Employment Requirements (20%) are worth the most.
3. Pick a schedule. Choose a 30 day, 60 day or 90 day plan based on your time and experience.
4. Practice under time pressure. Work through multiple choice questions and full timed practice tests. Try our sample questions.
5. Review what you miss. Keep a list of weak topics and go back to them each week.
6. Schedule both exams. After CSLB accepts your application, schedule with PSI. See how to schedule.

Common Preparation Mistakes

• Relying only on field experience for the trade exam. It covers code, safety and estimating, not only hands on skills.
• Skipping the Law and Business material because it feels like paperwork. Payroll, liens and contracts are a large part of the exam.
• Studying old material. CSLB updates its study guides, so check the date at the top of each guide.
• Waiting until the application is accepted to start studying. Use the processing time to prepare.

Prepare With CSLP

CSLP has prepared California contractors for their CSLB exams since 2013. Our courses include help with your CSLB application, online law and trade books with practice questions and weekly live classes in English and Spanish, from $595. Compare course options.

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