California Contractor License Exam Guide

The California contractor exam has 230 total questions across 2 parts: Law & Business (115 questions, 150 minutes); Trade Exam (General Building B) (115 questions, 180 minutes). You need 72% or higher on each part to pass.

The California contractor exam is closed-book. Closed-book parts: Law & Business, Trade Exam (General Building B).

The California contractor exam is administered by PSI on behalf of the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). You can schedule your exam through PSI after your application is approved by the CSLB.

The exam fee for the California contractor license is $450. Additional costs include application fees, background check, surety bond, and insurance requirements. Total licensing costs typically range from $500 to $2,000 depending on your classification.

California offers the following contractor classifications: General Engineering (A), General Building (B), Specialty (C-classifications). The specific exam requirements and scope of work vary by classification. Contact the CSLB for detailed requirements for each license type.