INTERACTIVE CHECKLISTCSLB Contractor License
CSLB Contractor License
Insurance Requirements Checklist 2026
Everything you need to get and keep your California contractor license in good standing. Check off each item as you complete it. Missing any item can result in license suspension or a $10,000–$20,000 SB 291 penalty.
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1
Before You Apply
$25,000 Contractor License BondREQUIRED
Must be filed by your surety company with CSLB before license is issued
$25,000 Bond of Qualifying Individual (if RME or <10% owner)
Required if your qualifier is an RME or owns less than 10% of the business
$100,000 LLC Employee/Worker Bond (LLC only)
Required for all LLC license types — in addition to the standard $25K bond
General Liability Insurance — $1M minimum (LLC only)
LLCs must carry GL: $1M aggregate for ≤5 personnel, +$100K per additional person, max $5M
2
Day-1 License Activation
Workers' Comp Certificate of Insurance (if you have employees)REQUIRED
Carrier e-files directly to CSLB. Required for all contractors with employees.
Workers' Comp Exemption Form (if no employees — most trades)
Cannot claim exemption if you are C-8, C-20, C-22, C-39, or C-61/D-49
Ghost Policy (C-8, C-20, C-22, C-39, C-61/D-49 solo contractors)
Phase 1 SB 216 trades must have WC even with no employees. Ghost policy = $800–Varies
3
Ongoing Compliance
Renew WC Policy AnnuallyREQUIRED
Carrier must re-file certificate with CSLB each year. Lapse = license suspension.
Renew Contractor License Bond (every 2 years)REQUIRED
Bond premium billed annually but CSLB requires continuous coverage.
Renew GL Policy Annually (LLC contractors)
CSLB will suspend LLC license if GL evidence lapses.
Commercial Auto — Annual Renewal
Filed with DMV, not CSLB. Required for all business vehicles.
Ready to Get All Items Checked?
We handle bonds, WC, GL, and commercial auto — all in one call. timely issuance available.