Verify any California contractor in 30 seconds
Check a contractor’s CSLB license, $25K bond, workers’ comp, and complaint history — pulled from California Contractors State License Board public records.
Check a Contractor License
Enter a 7-digit CSLB # or business name
Try a sample:
Returns matching CSLB licenses — pick the one that matches your contractor’s city and classification.
What to look for in a CSLB lookup
Four fields decide whether a contractor is safe to hire today. If any one is off, stop signing.
Look up a contractor in any state
Every state regulates contractors differently. Use the official licensing board for your state.
License lookup, explained
How do I look up a contractor’s license in California?
Enter the contractor’s 7-digit CSLB license number above. You’ll see their license status, classification, bond, workers’ compensation, and complaint history — pulled from the California Contractors State License Board public database.
What does “Active” license status mean?
Active means the contractor is currently authorized to perform work in California — license is not expired, suspended, or revoked. An active license with a current bond and workers’ comp on file is the minimum required before hiring.
What is a Class B contractor license?
Class B is a General Building contractor license — the classification needed for ADU construction, home additions, and most residential building projects. Class A is General Engineering. Class C covers specialty trades.
What is the CSLB contractor bond?
California requires every licensed contractor to carry a $25,000 surety bond. It gives you limited financial protection if the contractor abandons a project or performs defective work — capped at $25K regardless of your project cost.
What does workers’ comp “Exempt” mean?
An exemption means the contractor is a sole proprietor with no employees. California allows sole proprietors to file an exemption instead of carrying a policy.
What if the contractor isn’t licensed?
Performing construction work without a license is a misdemeanor under B&P §7028. If a contractor can’t give you a valid CSLB license number, don’t hire them.
How often is the data here updated?
License data is pulled from CSLB public records and cached for 24 hours. Builders listed on VerifiedADU are re-checked every 12 hours.
Is it illegal to hire an unlicensed contractor in California?
Yes. California Business and Professions Code Section 7028 makes it a misdemeanor to contract for work without a valid CSLB license on any project over $500. Homeowners who hire unlicensed contractors lose access to CSLB mediation, bond claims, and the Contractors Recovery Fund.
How do I file a complaint against a contractor with CSLB?
You can file a complaint directly on the CSLB website at cslb.ca.gov or call 800-321-CSLB (2752). CSLB investigates complaints about licensed and unlicensed contractors.
What happens if a contractor’s license is suspended?
A suspended license means the contractor cannot legally perform any work. If they continue working, they face criminal charges. Homeowners should stop all work immediately and contact CSLB.
How much can a contractor ask for as a deposit in California?
California law (Business and Professions Code Section 7159) limits deposits to $1,000 or 10% of the total contract price, whichever is less. Any contractor asking for more is violating the law.
What is the CSLB Contractors Recovery Fund?
The Contractors Recovery Fund compensates homeowners who suffer financial loss due to a licensed contractor’s fraud, negligence, or breach of contract. Claims are capped at $30,000 per licensee.
How often should I check a contractor’s license status?
Check before signing any contract, and again before making any payment. License status can change — a contractor who was active last month could be suspended today.
Need a deeper explanation of CSLB licensing rules? Read our complete guide to California contractor license verification.