IBC 2022

California General Contractor Licensing

Every general contractor license type California issues, with continuing-education hours, renewal fees, bond requirements and approved courses. Updated for 2026.

License types

None

Max CE / cycle

Required

Bond at some tier

CE providers

Informational only — not legal advice, and not an official government resource. Licensing rules change; always confirm against the official board source linked on this page before you renew, apply, or make a business decision. Trade Cert Hub is independent and not affiliated with any state licensing board.

California general contractors licenses at a glance

Class B General Building Contractor

contractor

CE: None
Fee: $450
Bond: $25,000

View full requirements

Getting started

How to become a general contractor in California →

Moving states

General Contractor license reciprocity →

CE courses in California

General Contractor continuing-education providers offering courses for California license holders. Confirm a provider is on your board’s approved list before you buy.

Affiliate disclosure: the links below are affiliate links and may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you.

360training

from $15

Cheapest, largest multi-trade catalog

Online self-paced · 350+ courses

View general contractor courses

RedVector (Vector Solutions)

from $19

Broad catalog across all four trades

Online self-paced · 250+ courses

View general contractor courses

TradeSchool.com

from $25

Multi-trade, Western states

Online self-paced · 140+ courses

View general contractor courses

Need a California contractor bond?

Some general contractor tiers in California require a license bond. Compare quotes in a few minutes.

Get a bond quote

Other trades licensed in California

Electrician in California Plumber in California HVAC Contractor in California

California general contractor licensing — FAQ

How many general contractor license types does California issue?

California issues 1 general contractor license type: Class B General Building Contractor.

Does California require continuing education for general contractors?

California has no confirmed continuing-education requirement for general contractor licenses at the tiers we track (or it is 0 hours). Confirm with the licensing board.

Do California general contractor licenses require a bond?

At least one general contractor license tier in California requires a license bond. Check the specific license page for the bond amount, then estimate the premium with our bond cost estimator.

Which IBC edition does California enforce?

California currently enforces the 2022 IBC for general contractor work.

Official source

California Contractors State License Board

Official board site

Data compiled 2026-05-23. Confirm current figures with the board.

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