How to Apply for a CSLB Contractor License
How to prepare and submit your Application for Original Contractor’s License so CSLB can accept it the first time.
Quick answer
Complete the Application for Original Contractor’s License (sole owners can also apply online for the exam), fill out the Certification of Work Experience form 13A-11, and mail them with the $450 application fee to CSLB Headquarters, P.O. Box 26000, Sacramento, CA 95826-0026. Do not send bonds or the license fee yet.
Forms You Will Need
- Application for Original Contractor’s License. Sole owners applying for the exam can also use CSLB’s online sole owner application.
- Certification of Work Experience (form 13A-11). Describes your journey level experience and is signed by someone with firsthand knowledge of your work.
- Project List (form 13A-64). Required for each completed project if any of your experience is owner builder work.
- Special Accommodation Request (form 13E-77). Only if you need testing accommodations for a disability.
- Official sealed transcripts or apprenticeship certificates, if you are claiming education or training credit.
Filling Out the Application
- Use ink or a typewriter. Forms completed in pencil are returned.
- Apply for only one classification if you are taking the exam. You can add more after your license is issued.
- Make sure the application is dated and that everyone listed on it has signed.
- If you need a translator for the exam, check the box on the front page of the application.
- Proofread for missing information. Every return delays your license.
Where and How to Submit
Mail the application, the $450 processing fee and all required documents to CSLB Headquarters, Contractors State License Board, P.O. Box 26000, Sacramento, CA 95826-0026. Include your return address on the envelope. Do not include any bonds or the initial license fee. CSLB will ask for those after you pass your exams.
What Happens Next
CSLB mails an acknowledgment letter with your Application Fee Number and a four digit PIN, which you use to check your status. If something is missing, the application is returned and you have 90 days to correct it. Once it is accepted, you receive fingerprinting instructions and a notice to schedule your exams. See the CSLB application step by step.
Get Help With Your Application
CSLP courses include help preparing your CSLB application, so it is not returned for corrections. See our courses or contact our team.
Content reviewed against CSLB sources: November 2026
- CSLB: Applying for the examination
- CSLB: Qualifying experience for the examination
- CSLB: Exam application returned for correction
- CSLB: Exam application accepted
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How to Apply for a CSLB Contractor License: FAQs
Can I apply online?
Sole owners applying to take the exam can complete CSLB’s online sole owner original license application. Other applicants use the paper Application for Original Contractor’s License.
Can I apply for two classifications at the same time?
Not if you need to take the exam. You can apply for only one classification at a time and add others after your license is issued.
Is there an application for Spanish speakers?
CSLB provides application instructions in Spanish. CSLP also offers application help and exam preparation in Spanish.
Do I send my bond with the application?
No. Do not send bonds or the initial license fee with your application. CSLB requests them after you pass your exams.