How to check a contractor’s license in California
How do I check a contractor’s license in California, step by step?
- Ask for the license number. A licensed contractor should give it to you without hesitation; it's often printed on estimates, trucks and websites.
- Look it up on the CSLB site. Use the “Check a License” tool and search by license number, business name or personal name.
- Confirm the status is active and the business name matches the company you're talking to.
- Check the classification. Make sure the license type covers the work you're hiring for.
- Review the bond and workers’ compensation sections. If the contractor has employees, workers’ comp coverage should be listed.
- Look for disciplinary actions or complaints shown on the record.
When does a contractor need a license in California?
According to the CSLB, California law (AB 2622) raised the “minor work” threshold from $500 to $1,000 starting January 1, 2025. Above that amount — counting labor and materials together — the person doing the work must hold a CSLB license. Kitchen and bathroom remodels are far above that line.
What are the red flags when hiring a contractor?
- No license number, or a number that belongs to a different business.
- A large cash deposit demanded up front.
- Pressure to skip permits “to save money.”
- No written contract or a vague scope of work. Our guide to California home improvement contracts explains what a contract should include.
Should a contractor also carry liability insurance?
Ask for proof of general liability insurance. It protects your home if something is accidentally damaged during the project. ProRock carries $1 million in general liability coverage.
How do I verify ProRock Remodeling’s license?
ProRock Remodeling’s license number is #1154078. You can verify it directly on the CSLB website. To see the kind of work we do, browse our kitchen and bathroom project gallery.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a contractor is licensed in California?
Use the Check a License tool on the CSLB website (cslb.ca.gov). Search by license number or name and confirm the license is active and matches the business.
What is the minimum job amount that requires a license in California?
Since January 1, 2025, a contractor license is required for jobs of $1,000 or more in combined labor and materials. The previous limit was $500.
What should I look for on a CSLB license record?
Active status, the correct business name, a classification that fits your project, bond information, workers’ compensation status and any disciplinary actions.
Is ProRock Remodeling licensed?
Yes. ProRock Remodeling holds California CSLB license #1154078, which you can verify on the CSLB website.
Planning a remodel in the Bay Area?
ProRock Remodeling is a licensed general contractor (CSLB #1154078) working from San Jose to South San Francisco, with $1M liability coverage and a 2-year workmanship warranty. Call (408) 991-4744 or request a free estimate.