Power Up Your Career: A Comprehensive Guide to Obtaining Your C10 Electrical Contractor License in California

Step 1: Ensure you are eligible

Before anyone can become an electrical contractor, they must first meet the qualifications and experience requirements set forth by the CSLB, such as:

• Be at least 18 years old. That demonstrates the CSLB’s commitment to entrusting the electrical industry to those who have reached a level of maturity and responsibility.
• 4 years of journeyman-level work experience (or equivalent) within the past 10 years in the electrical trade. Note that your professional expertise should be verifiable and duly documented, since you’ll be required to prove that when applying for a license.
• Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). This requirement ensures that you embrace the accountability that comes with conducting business in the electrical industry, promoting a level playing field and fostering a community built on trust and integrity.

Step 2: Prepare and file your application

First, you’ll need to obtain the official Application for Original Contractor License package. You can download it directly from the CSLB website.

One of the most important parts of your C-10 license application is the Certification of Work Experience form. You’ll need someone with firsthand knowledge of your work to certify your hands-on knowledge and skills. The certifier will fill out their portion of the form, detailing the types of electrical work you performed, and sign it under penalty of perjury. You’ll also have to pay a processing fee, which is $450 for now.

Guidance and assistance in filling out the application form with the CSLB are part and parcel of the preparation for the licensing process at Contractors Intelligence School. Our specialists will review your form and help correct any mistakes and inconsistencies, or specify important details.

Step 3: Pass a background check

For your license to be granted, you’ll have to complete a background check. You’ll be required to submit fingerprints through Live Scan, California’s digital fingerprinting system. Your fingerprints are then submitted to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for a full criminal background check. Even if you’ve already been fingerprinted for another license or job in the past, you’ll need to do it again specifically for the CSLB.

For fingerprinting, you can visit one of the multiple Live Scan locations across California. The service is payable and will cost between $50 and $80. Applicants need to submit a copy of their completed Live Scan form to the CSLB.

Step 4: Pass the required exams

While waiting for the CSLB to review your application, use this time wisely to prepare for the two examinations. The Law and Business examination evaluates your comprehension of construction law, contractual obligations, and business practices, while the Trade Examination focuses on the specific skills and knowledge relevant to the electrical classification.

A few weeks are just enough to get enrolled in Contractors Intelligence School and complete one of our in-depth study courses explicitly designed for C-10 licensees. Our experienced instructors with comprehensive industry knowledge will provide invaluable insights, real-world scenarios, and practical advice that will enable you to pass the exams on the first try, like 98% of our students do.

Once the CSLB accepts your application, you’ll receive a letter with instructions on how to schedule your exams with PSI. Thoroughly review your C-10 license requirements and ensure that you’ve scheduled all the mandated exams. Both exams are multiple-choice and computer-based, each taking 3.5 hours to complete. It’s important to note that the Law and Trade exams are independent, giving you the flexibility to schedule them based on availability. If you require a translator or any other accommodation, be sure to make arrangements well in advance.

On the day of the exam, make sure to arrive at least 15–30 minutes early and bring a valid photo ID. Upon admission, you'll receive all the necessary materials to complete your exam(s). Your test results will be provided upon exiting the testing center, indicating whether you've passed or failed. You’ll need to pass both exams to move forward. If you fail one or both exams, don’t panic. You’ll have up to 18 months to retake them. A fee of $51.43 applies to each new exam scheduling or rescheduling.

Step 5: Submit required documentation

Before your license can be issued, it's imperative to provide the CSLB with a few more documents, including:

• Contractor’s bond: This bond ensures that if you violate contracting laws, injured parties can file a claim against your bond to recover financial losses. Currently, its amount is $25,000, with annual premium payments of approximately $250, depending on your credit history.
• Workers’ compensation insurance: It’s mandatory if you have employees. Otherwise, file a Workers’ Compensation Exemption Certificate with the CSLB stating you have no employees.
• Open book asbestos exam: Even if you don’t work with asbestos, you are required to pass this exam before your license is issued. It’s separate from your trade and law exams and serves as a public safety education requirement.
• General liability insurance: Though not a CSLB requirement at the moment, it’s highly recommended for all contractors. This insurance protects your business against claims of bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury, and can cover legal fees if your client sues you.
• Paying the initial licensing fee: The current fee is $200 for a sole owner and $350 for a non-sole owner.

Step 6: Get your license

When all additional paperwork is filed and approved, the CSLB will issue your official C-10 Electrical Contractor License. You'll receive your unique license number, a wall certificate, and a plastic pocket license.

Step 7: Stay compliant

Getting your license is a huge achievement, but the journey doesn't end there. You should:

• Renew your license every two years, typically upon receiving a renewal notification from CSLB 60 days before the expiration date. The renewal fee is $450 for sole owners and $700 for non-sole owners.
• Maintain your contractor bond and insurance. These are ongoing requirements that you must keep active for a valid license.
• Stay current with changes to California laws and building codes.

Operating without a valid, active license can lead to hefty fines and legal trouble. So, always stay on top of your renewals and compliance.