How to Verify a Licensed Contractor in California

When hiring a contractor to complete a construction project, you want to ensure you work with a licensed professional. Many people care more about reviews, recommendations, and pricing, but working with a licensed contractor should be high on the list of qualifications. No matter the type of construction project, read on to learn how to check contractors’ licenses to see if they are a good fit for you.

How to Verify a Licensed Contractor in California

Working with a licensed contractor is the best way to protect yourself and your company. The California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) requires contractors to have a license to bid on any projects over $500. Here’s how to check if the contractor has a license and, if needed, to check the status of that license.

Locate the Contractor’s License Number

First, obtain their contractor’s license number. It may be printed on advertisements and business cards, or you can ask them directly.

Check Online by Visiting the California State License Board Website

The first step to verifying a contractor’s license is to visit the CSLB’s website.

Search the License Number

Use the Check a License tool to search the contractor’s license number in the CSLB’s database. You can also look up a contractor by their first and last name, or business name.

Find and Review the Contractor

Search the database to find your contractor and review their license. Check if the license is active, suspended, expired, or canceled. Review any complaint disclosures, and check the types of construction work they are qualified to perform. Make sure there are no public complaints or civil actions against the contractor.

Check for Worker’s Compensation Insurance

Check to see if they have workers’ comp insurance to ensure you won’t be liable for any on-the-job injuries during the project. Some contractors may be exempt if they have declared to the CSLB that they are working as individuals with no employees or subcontractors.

Check by Phone by Calling the California State License Board

Check the contractor’s license by calling the CSLB at 1-800-321-2752 and using the automated phone system. Dial the number and follow the prompts. The automated system will share all the information listed in the database. If you do not know the license number of the contractor you want to look up, follow the prompts to be transferred to a live agent.

The CSLB recommends you only work with licensed contractors to protect yourself from liabilities and from becoming the victim of scams who pose as contractors. With a quick search of the CSLB, you can find a qualified, professional contractor, no matter the job.

If you’re a contractor or looking to become a California-licensed contractor, The Contractor’s License Guru helps you prepare for your exams, pass your tests, and get to work. Visit Contractor’s License Guru to learn more.