How to get a electrical contractor license in California
California electrical contractor licensing covers hours, prerequisites, exam path, fees, and renewal. Confirm current rules on the board source before you apply.
Verified on: 2026-09-14 · Board source
From the board
- List of All CSLB Fees - CSLB # List of All CSLB Fees Payments at CSLB's Sacramento office may be made by cash (exact change only), check, or money order.
- The Norwalk, Fresno, San Bernardino and San Diego offices are not accepting payments at this time.
- Payment kiosks are not available statewide at this time.
- The applicable fees are linked to the postmark date or the date hand-delivered to CSLB headquarters in Sacramento (Map) for application, licensing, and miscellaneous fees.
- Board page: List of All CSLB Fees - CA.gov
Requirements overview
- California sets experience, education, and exam rules for electrical contractor applicants
- Documented OJT or apprenticeship hours are common for journeyman / technician paths
- Master and contractor tracks usually add experience, exams, and firm paperwork
- Confirm current hour totals, affidavits, and fees on the state board before you apply
Exam
- See the California electrical exam guide for vendor, scheduling, and prep
- LicenseFlo helps with paperwork and reminders — we do not sit the exam
Renewals
- Most credentials renew on a fixed cycle with mandatory CE or training
- Roster watch → intake → assemble → sign → submit
Related: Exam · Renewal and CE
Have LicenseFlo do it
From $79 per event. Text once; we collect photos, assemble the packet, and send a one-tap signature.