What a C-28 license allows
CSLB defines the C-28 Lock and Security Equipment Contractor classification as follows: “A lock and security equipment contractor evaluates, sets-up, installs, maintains and repairs all doors and door assemblies, gates, locks and locking devices, panic and fire rated exit devices, manual and automatic operated gate and door closures and releases, jail and prison locking devices and permanently installed or built in safes and vaults. This classification includes but is not limited to master key systems, metal window guards, security doors, card activated and electronic access control systems for control equipment, motion and other types of detectors and computer systems for control and audit of control systems and other associated equipment. Fire alarm systems are specifically not included in this section.” Source: cslb.ca.gov licensing classifications.
C-28 licenses in California by the numbers
As of September 2026, CSLB lists 339 current licenses that include C-28. 61% have workers' comp on file, 35% are filed exempt, and 14 were issued in the last 12 months.
Ownership: 34% sole owners, 61% corporations, 4% LLCs. Suspensions today: 3 for workers' comp, 10 for bonds.
Insurance and bonds a C-28 contractor needs
- $25,000 contractor license bond — required for every active license.
- Workers' comp — A license with employees must carry workers' comp. With no employees you can currently file an exemption; from January 1, 2028 (SB 1455), CSLB will require workers' comp for all active licenses except joint ventures.
- LLC licenses — liability insurance of at least $1 million (up to $5 million by member count) plus a $100,000 employee/worker bond.
- General liability and commercial auto — not required by CSLB for most licenses, but required by nearly every GC, owner and public agency contract.
Carriers underwrite based on the work you actually perform under this classification, your residential/commercial mix, subcontracting and claims history.
Get a quote
Asena Capital Insurance Services compares multiple markets for lock and security equipment contractors and requests additional insured endorsements for you when a contract calls for them. Call (858) 925-9555 or request a quote — only your name, phone and email are required. CA License #6008596.