California painter contractor license

Hiring an unlicensed contractor is risky: the quality of the work may be poor and you may end up paying more if your home is damaged, the work is incomplete or faulty, or if a worker is injured. Verify license status online or by calling CSLB Skip to main content. Search Search. Password was updated successfully. Start Your Business. If you've been thinking about obtaining a painting contractor license, here are some basics to get you started.

Some that do may also require you to register your services. A state-by-state list will tell you what is required along with any fees. Other considerations may include having no criminal background and the legal right to work in the country.

The installation of any finished products, materials, or merchandise that does not become a fixed part of the home also is not covered under the law. Therefore, suppliers of finished cabinets or flooring do not need to be licensed, however, those who install the materials likely do. House cleaners and chimney sweepers do no need to be licensed either.

Unlicensed contractor law is pretty stiff in the state of California, and those who operate without a license should be rather careful that they are not caught conducting their business. Hundreds of unlicensed contractors are caught each year, and some face rather serious penalties for not having a license. Obviously, bigger jobs will be easier for the authorities to catch someone who is unlicensed, however, contractors have been known to complete work on jobs big and small. According to the CSLB, those who operate without a state-issued license actually cause harm to the public and thereby tarnish the respectability of the construction industry.

As you can see, they take cracking down on unlicensed contracting very seriously. So serious in fact that those contractors who are caught operating without a license during a kitchen remodel , bathroom remodel , or any other home improvement may have to appear before a Superior Court judge on misdemeanor charges. Repeat offenders will be given a minimum sentence of 90 days in state prison and face even steeper fines.

Any attempt by an unlicensed contractor to falsely represent in any way that they are licensed will be charged as a felony. This could lead to a more lengthy sentence. Experience Requirement: At least 4 years journey level experience; must be at least 18 years of age. Exam Frequency: Computerized exams given daily at 8 sites throughout the state. Authority: Business and Professions Code, Section et seq.