How much does a General Contractor license cost in California?

Getting a General Contractor license in California costs $1,110 upfront (exam fee $450, application fee $330, license fee $330). Renewal runs $330 every 2 years.

How much do licensed general contractors earn in California?

Licensed general contractors in California earn a median salary of $81,250/year, compared to $60,000/year without the license.

How many CE hours are required to renew a General Contractor license in California?

California requires 20 continuing education hours every 2 years to renew a General Contractor license.

General Contractor Licenses › California

General Contractor License Cost in California 2026: $1,110 Fees, $81K Salary

Getting a General Contractor license in California costs $1,110 upfront. At state-adjusted salaries, that pays back in 0.6 months.

General Contractor License in California — Key Numbers

$1,110

Upfront Cost

$81K

Median Salary (Licensed)

$330

Renewal (every 2 yrs)

0.6 mo

Payback Period

Salary data: BLS OEWS 2024 state estimates. Fees: state licensing board schedules.

General Contractor License Cost Breakdown — California

Exam fee $450

Application fee $330

Initial license fee $330

Total upfront $1,110

Renewal fee (every 2 yrs) $330

CE hours required per cycle 20 hours

Salary without license (California) $60,000/yr

Salary with license (California) $81,250/yr

5-year net ROI $105K

Licensing body: California Contractors Licensing Board. Verify current fees before applying — schedules change.

General Contractor License in California — What to Know

California requires state-level contractor licensing, which typically includes a trade exam, financial responsibility documentation, and proof of insurance. The $81K median for licensed contractors in California reflects strong construction demand in the state's metros. Licensed GCs in California can pull permits, take on unlimited-value projects, and hire subcontractors directly. The exam covers building codes, contract law, and business practices. Insurance and bonding requirements add to the ongoing cost beyond the license fee itself.

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← All states: General Contractor License Costs

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