How Long Does It Take to Get a Contractor License in California?
What affects the timeline from your CSLB application to your license, and the deadlines you need to watch along the way.
Quick answer
There is no fixed timeline. The total time depends on CSLB’s current processing times, whether your application is returned for correction, how quickly you complete fingerprinting, how soon you pass your exams and how fast you file your bond and fees. CSLB publishes its current processing dates online and updates them weekly.
The Stages That Take Time
- Application review. CSLB processes applications in order. Check the current processing dates for your application type.
- Corrections, if needed. A returned application must be corrected and resubmitted within 90 days or it becomes void.
- Fingerprinting. After acceptance, you receive a Live Scan form. Hard copy fingerprint cards for out of state applicants can take three to six months or longer.
- Exams. You schedule your exams with PSI. If you fail, you must wait 21 days to reschedule.
- Issuance. After you pass, CSLB sends a bond and fee letter. The license is issued once everything is received and approved.
Deadlines You Must Meet
- 90 days to resubmit a returned application.
- 90 days to send CSLB your copy of the Live Scan form after you receive the fingerprint packet.
- 18 months from acceptance of your application to pass your exams, or the application becomes void and you must reapply with new fees.
How to Avoid Delays
- Fill out every form in ink, sign and date it, and proofread before mailing.
- Describe your experience in detail and choose a certifier who saw your work firsthand.
- Get fingerprinted as soon as your Live Scan packet arrives.
- Study before your application is accepted so you are ready to schedule your exams right away.
- Line up your bond and workers’ compensation before you pass, so you can respond to the bond and fee letter quickly.
See common application mistakes and how to check your application status.
Applications Sent for Investigation
Some applications are sent for a formal investigation, for example to verify experience or review a background check. The license cannot be issued until the investigation is complete, even if the qualifier has passed the exams.
Be Ready for Your Exams
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.
Content reviewed against CSLB sources: November 2026
- CSLB: Applying for the examination
- CSLB: Exam application returned for correction
- CSLB: Exam application accepted
- CSLB: Get fingerprinted (Live Scan)
- CSLB: Issuing my license
- CSLB: Processing times
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How Long Does It Take to Get a Contractor License?: FAQs
Can I speed up my CSLB application?
CSLB expedites applications for qualifying military veterans, some military spouses, refugees, asylees and special immigrant visa holders. For everyone else, a complete and accurate application is the best way to avoid delays.
What happens if I do not pass within 18 months?
Your application becomes void and you must submit a new application with new fees. The void date can be extended up to 90 days for documented medical emergencies or other circumstances beyond your control.
How do I know where my application is?
Use the Application Fee Number and PIN from your acknowledgment letter to check your status online. See checking your application status.