C-36 compliance in San Jose — CSLB data
CSLB's license file (September 2026) lists 375 active C-36 licenses based in San Jose. 52% show a workers' comp policy and 45% are filed exempt.
17 of them are suspended (6 workers' comp / 11 bond) — a suspended license cannot legally contract.
County-wide, Santa Clara County has 641 C-36 licenses, with 6 workers' comp and 15 bond suspensions.
32% of San Jose's C-36 licenses are 20+ years old, 19% are newer than three years (median 10.1 years). 27 were issued in the last 12 months.
6% are LLCs, which carry extra CSLB insurance and bond rules (below).
What CSLB requires for a C-36 license
- License bond: $25,000 on file with CSLB.
- Workers' comp: required with employees; mandatory for all active licenses from January 1, 2028 (SB 1455).
- LLC licenses: $1M+ liability insurance and a $100,000 employee/worker bond.
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Frequently asked questions
How many C-36 licenses in San Jose are suspended?
As of September 2026, 6 for workers' comp and 11 for bond issues, out of 375 active C-36 licenses based in San Jose.
How many new C-36 licenses were issued in San Jose last year?
27 in the 12 months to September 2026. Each needed a $25,000 bond on file before CSLB issued the license.
Do C-36 plumbers need workers' comp?
Yes if you have employees. With no employees you can currently file an exemption; beginning January 1, 2028, CSLB will require workers' comp for all active licenses under SB 1455, except joint ventures.