How do I verify a contractor license in California?
Answered by Netanel Presman, General Contractor (CSLB #1105249) · Updated
Short answer
Go to CSLB.ca.gov, use the License Lookup tool, and enter either the license number or business name. The lookup shows license class, expiration date, bond status, workers' compensation coverage, and any disciplinary history. Verification takes 60 seconds, is free, and is the single most important step before signing any California remodel contract.
In detail
The California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) publishes a free public database for every license it has ever issued. Here's the 60-second verification workflow:
1. Go to CSLB.ca.gov — click License Lookup in the top nav. 2. Search by license number or business name — both return the same profile. 3. Confirm these five fields: - License Status = ACTIVE (not expired, suspended, or revoked). - License Class matches the work — class B for general remodel, class B-2 for smaller residential remodels, or a C-specialty class that covers the specific trade. A C-39 roofing license does not cover a kitchen remodel. - Contractor Bond = FILED with a bond amount at least $25,000 (higher bonds are available and preferred for larger jobs). - Workers' Compensation = FILED with an active policy (or exemption if the licensee has no employees). - Disciplinary / Judgment / LLC / Personnel history — any open discipline, arbitration award, or citation is a serious warning. 4. Print or save the CSLB lookup page PDF — attach it to your homeowner records. If things go sideways, this is your evidence the license was active at contract signing.
Common CSLB license numbers you'll see on the directory card:
- B = General Building (most common for residential remodels).
- B-2 = Residential Remodeling (introduced 2024, narrower scope than B).
- C-10 = Electrical.
- C-36 = Plumbing.
- C-20 = Heating / Ventilation / Air Conditioning.
- C-39 = Roofing.
- C-33 = Painting / Decorating.
Red flags that should stop the hiring process:
- The license is expired or inactive.
- The contract price is above the bond amount and the contractor won't increase the bond.
- The workers' compensation policy shows "CANCELLED" (current policy must be filed with CSLB).
- The contractor asks you to pull owner-builder permits on your own. That shifts all liability to you.
AskBaily verifies CSLB status automatically before any LA match.
Sources
How AskBaily helps
AskBaily scopes your project in one chat — permit flags, cost range, and timeline — then routes you to one licensed contractor whose license we verify live. No shared leads, no racing against seven other bidders, no lead fees to your pro.