How to Get Your C29 Masonry Contractor License in CA

Learn the ins and outs of getting your C29 Masonry Contractor License in California today!

What is the C29 Contractor License?

In California, the C29 Contractor License is a specialty license for masonry contractors issued by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). This license allows you to perform work related to the installation, alteration, and repair of masonry structures, including bricklaying, concrete block installation, and stone setting. To obtain this license, contractors must pass both trade and business exams, meet specific experience requirements—typically four years of journey-level experience in masonry—and fulfill financial obligations such as bonding and insurance.

Determining Eligibility to Get Your C29 Contractors License

To be eligible for the C29 Contractor License in California, you must meet the following requirements:

Age: You must be at least 18 years old
Experience: You need a minimum of 4 years of journey-level experience in masonry work.
Identification: You must have a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

Meeting these criteria is essential for moving forward with your application and obtaining your C29 Contractor License.

CMU wall built by licensed C29 contractor.

Required Work Experience in California for Masonry Contractors

To qualify for the C29 license classification, your work experience must be directly in the masonry field. This includes the fabrication and installation of masonry units for both structural load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls, as well as fences installed with or without mortar. You should also have experience with ceramic veneer (excluding tile) and thin brick that resembles full brick, used for facing, paving, and clear waterproofing. Additionally, skills in cleaning and caulking related to masonry construction are required.

Most applicants gain this experience by working for a company that holds the C29 license or by completing an apprenticeship program followed by work as journeymen in the masonry field. Regardless of how you acquire your work experience, it must be within the last 10 years, as this is the only period accepted by the CSLB.

Studying for the C29 Masonry Contractors License Exam

Preparing for the C29 Masonry Contractor exam is straightforward, especially with the help of Contractors Intelligence School. Their programs are designed to be streamlined and help you prepare for the exam quickly. While your experience alone is often sufficient to pass the state exam, completing a course with Contractors Intelligence School can ensure you pass on your first try. If you enroll in their program, follow their recommended study strategy. Alternatively, you can prepare for the state exam by reviewing the C29 Masonry study guide provided by the CSLB.

Application Costs for the C29 Contractors License in CA

When submitting a completed application to the CSLB, you must include a check or money order for $450. This fee covers the review of your application and, if approved, allows you to schedule the required exams. Other fees to be aware of include:

Business entity registration (if applicable). This fee varies depending on the county or city where you register your entity. Inquire about the specific amount from the agency where you are registering your business.
Initial License Fee. $200 for sole ownership companies and $350 for non-sole ownership companies, paid after passing the required exams.
School fees. Contractors Intelligence charges between $295 and $495 for their most popular courses. Prices may differ with other schools.
Bonding. All contractors must post a contractor's bond of $25,000. This bond typically costs $250 per year. Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) are also required to carry additional bonding, estimated at $2,000 per year.
Insurance. our business may require general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. General liability insurance is mandatory for LLCs applying for a contractor's license, while it is not required for the CSLB to issue a license number otherwise. A contractor's license cannot be granted until the company secures workers' compensation insurance or applies for an examination waiver if applicable. Consult with a licensed insurance agent to understand the costs associated with these insurances.
Livescan fingerprinting. Completing your Livescan fingerprints costs an estimated $75, including the Department of Justice (DOJ) fee, FBI fee, and the Livescan location rolling fee.

The C29 Masonry Licensing Process

Obtaining the C29 Masonry Contractor License requires applying for the license and passing two state exams: the Law & Business exam and the C29 Trade exam. The entire licensing process can be summarized as follows:

Step 1: Consider the state’s requirements to determine if you qualify for the exams.

Step 2: Enroll into a course with Contractors Intelligence School.

Step 3: Establish a business entity and complete the state application.

Step 4: Prepare for the state examinations by reviewing the state’s study guide and/or using study materials provided by Contractors Intelligence School.

Step 5: Schedule and pass all the required state examinations.

Step 6: Fulfill any final steps outlined by the CSLB.

Get Started Today!

Take the next step towards building your future as a licensed California contractor by calling Contractors Intelligence School at 800-425-7570. With their expert guidance and streamlined programs, you'll be well-prepared to pass your exams and obtain your C29 Masonry Contractor License efficiently. Don't wait—start your journey to a successful career in masonry today!

Published on: August 2, 2024