How much does a General Engineering Contractor license cost in California?

The estimated total cost is $650, including application fees, and education costs.

How long does it take to get a General Engineering Contractor license in California?

The process typically takes 3-6 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.

What exam do I need for a General Engineering Contractor license in California?

You need to pass the Business/Law Exam and Trade Exam. N/A

General Engineering Contractor License in California

To become a licensed general contractor in California, apply to the CSLB with a $450 application fee, pass business/law and trade exams, show 4 years experience, and pay an initial license fee of $200-$350. Total initial cost is approximately $650-$800 plus bonding.

Exam: Business/Law Exam and Trade Exam
Total Cost: $650 (est.)
Timeline: 3-6 months
Renewal: Every Biennial

Requirements

General Engineering Contractor license in California

gold

Veterans Benefits

N/A - Not displayed

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee: $450
Renewal Fee: $450
Total Estimated Cost: $650

Licensing Agency

Department of Consumer Affairs~Contractors State License Board

Website 8003212752 Email

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your General Engineering Contractor license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Application Fee

$450

Renewal Fee

$450

Total Estimated Cost

$650

Education / School Cost

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

Include first renewal fee ($450)

Application FeeEst.$450

Total Estimated Cost$450

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the California licensing board.

General Engineering Contractor Salary in California

Entry Level

$81,070

Median

$129,000

Experienced

$205,060

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed General Engineering Contractor in California.

1

Submit Your Application

File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$450.
2

Receive Your License

Processing typically takes 3-6 months.

General Engineering Contractor Licensing in California: What to Know

California requires all contractors to be licensed by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). General contractors fall under Class A (Engineering) or Class B (Building). The application fee is $450, with initial license fees of $200 (sole owner) or $350 (non-sole owner) for 2 years. Applicants need at least 4 years of journey-level experience, must pass both business/law and trade exams (computerized, given daily at 20 sites statewide), and must provide fingerprints, license bond(s), and proof of workers' compensation coverage. Biennial renewal is $450 (sole owner) or $700 (non-sole owner).

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a General Engineering Contractor license cost in California?: The estimated total cost is $650, including application fees, and education costs.
How long does it take to get a General Engineering Contractor license in California?: The process typically takes 3-6 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a General Engineering Contractor license in California?: You need to pass the Business/Law Exam and Trade Exam. N/A