How to Check a Contractor License in California

1. Get the exact license number

Ask the contractor for the CSLB license number shown on the proposal or contract. California contractor advertising and paperwork commonly include this identifier. If you only have a business name, search by name and confirm the location before selecting a record.

2. Match the business identity

• •Compare the legal or business name with the proposal.
• •Confirm the city and other available contact information.
• •Watch for similar names, spelling differences, or a license belonging to another entity.

3. Check status and expiration

Confirm the status for the period in which the work will occur. An expiration date in the future does not override a suspended or otherwise restricted status.

4. Confirm the classification

CSLB classifications describe the categories of work a contractor may perform. Compare the listed classification with the actual project scope; do not treat any active contractor license as authorization for every trade.

5. Review bond, workers’ compensation, and disclosures

Review the available bond and workers’ compensation information, then open the official CSLB record for policy details, disclosures, and the board’s limitations. Escalate uncertainty instead of treating a missing field as approval.