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License & exam prep

Get your California contractor license.

Ready to get licensed by the CSLB? We connect you with a trusted contractor-license school and exam-prep partner, then handle the bond you will need once you pass. One path, two steps done right.

The path to a CSLB license

Most applicants follow the same general path. You document the required experience in your trade, generally about four years of journey-level work. You pass the Law and Business exam plus the trade exam for your classification. Then you submit your application to the Contractors State License Board, post your bond, and meet the board's other requirements before your license issues.

The exact experience, classifications, fees, and forms vary by situation and change over time. Confirm the current requirements with the CSLB before you apply, so you are working from the rules in effect today.

Why a school helps

The Law and Business and trade exams are the step that trips up the most people. A good exam-prep course teaches the material the way the test asks it, which helps many applicants pass the first time instead of re-testing. A school is not required, but structured prep is one of the simplest ways to keep your timeline short.

We connect you with a trusted partner so you can get a plan that fits your trade and your schedule. You decide whether it is right for you.

MM Bonding & Insurance Services connects you with a trusted contractor-license school and exam-prep partner. We are not the school, and we may receive a referral fee. There is no cost to you to be connected.

Already licensed, or almost?

Once you pass, every California contractor must carry the $25,000 contractor license bond. We place it fast, even with tough credit. New to how bonds work? Read how to get a contractor license bond.

Get connected with a license school

Tell us your goal and we'll connect you with a trusted exam-prep partner. No cost to be connected.

Questions

License school FAQs

How do I get a contractor license in California?
In general, you qualify with the required journey-level experience in your trade, pass the Law and Business exam plus your trade exam, and submit your application to the CSLB. Specifics depend on your classification, so confirm the current requirements with the CSLB.
Do I need a license school?
No, a school is not required. But structured exam prep helps many applicants pass the Law and Business and trade exams the first time. We connect you with a trusted exam-prep partner so you can decide what fits you.
How long does it take?
It depends on your experience, how quickly you prepare, and CSLB scheduling and processing. We will not promise a specific timeline. Your prep partner can give you a realistic plan based on your situation.
Do I need a bond once I'm licensed?
Yes. Every licensed California contractor must carry the $25,000 contractor license bond. We handle that part directly, see the contractor license bond for details.

Ready to get licensed?

We connect you with a trusted exam-prep partner, then handle your bond once you pass.