Verify/California

How to Verify a Contractor License in California

Search 247,002 California contractor license records instantly. Free verification tool powered by official state licensing board data.

247,002
Total Licenses
235,634
Active
95%
Active Rate

Verify a California Contractor Now

Enter a contractor's name or license number to instantly check their status.

Search California Licenses

Step-by-Step: Verify a Contractor in California

1

Search by name or license number

Go to the List a Service verification tool and enter the contractor's business name, owner name, or license number. Select California from the state dropdown to narrow results.

2

Review the license details

Check the license type, current status (Active, Expired, or Revoked), license number, and expiration date. An active license means the contractor is currently authorized to perform work in California.

3

Confirm with the California licensing board

For the most current information, cross-reference the license directly with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). This ensures you have the latest data on any disciplinary actions or status changes.

4

Ask for insurance and references

A valid license is essential, but also request proof of liability insurance, workers' compensation coverage, and at least three recent references. This provides a complete picture of the contractor's qualifications.

Red Flags to Watch For

Expired license

The contractor is not currently authorized to perform work. They may be operating illegally.

Refuses to provide license number

A legitimate contractor will readily share their license information for verification.

No record found

If the contractor cannot be found in state records, they may be unlicensed.

Wrong license type

A plumbing license does not authorize electrical work. Ensure the license covers your project.

Contractor License Types in California

General Building78,922 licenses
C1019,148 licenses
C3312,637 licenses
C3611,626 licenses
C279,107 licenses
C207,388 licenses
General Engineering5,587 licenses
C155,174 licenses
C544,461 licenses
C393,842 licenses
B| C103,435 licenses
Low Voltage Systems3,399 licenses

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I check if a contractor is licensed in California?

Use the free List a Service verification tool to search by contractor name or license number. You can also check directly with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB).

How many licensed contractors are there in California?

California currently has 247,002 contractor license records on file, with 235,634 (95%) in active status.

What happens if I hire an unlicensed contractor in California?

Hiring an unlicensed contractor puts you at risk. You may have no legal recourse if work is done poorly, and you could be liable for workplace injuries since unlicensed contractors often lack required insurance and bonding. Some states also impose fines on homeowners who knowingly hire unlicensed contractors.

Is the List a Service verification tool free?

Yes. List a Service provides completely free contractor license verification across all 50 states. There are no paid tiers, subscriptions, or hidden fees.

Top Cities in California

Los Angeles6,844
San Diego6,157
San Jose5,179
Sacramento4,270
San Francisco3,971
Bakersfield2,823
Riverside2,762
Fresno2,606
Anaheim2,202
Santa Rosa2,150

California Licensing Board

Contractors State License Board (CSLB)

Visit Official Site

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