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California Contractor License Bond

What California Contractors Need To Know

If you’re a contractor working in California—or planning to get licensed—you are required to carry a $25,000 California Contractor License Bond. This bond is mandated by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) and is a non-negotiable requirement for obtaining and maintaining an active contractor’s license.

This guide explains what a contractor license bond is, why California requires it, how much it costs, and how to get one fast—so you can stay compliant and keep working.

What Is a California Contractor License Bond?

A California Contractor License Bond is a type of surety bond that protects consumers and the state—not the contractor. It guarantees that a licensed contractor will:

  • Follow California contractor licensing laws

  • Perform work according to contract terms

  • Pay subcontractors, suppliers, and employees when required

  • Comply with CSLB regulations and ethical business practices

If a contractor violates these obligations, an injured party may file a claim against the bond.

Learn more about contractor license bonds here: https://www.everybond.com/surety-bonds/contractor-license-bond/

Why California Requires a $25,000 CSLB Bond

The CSLB requires this bond to:

  • Protect homeowners and consumers from financial loss

  • Hold contractors accountable for legal and contractual obligations

  • Maintain professionalism and trust within the construction industry

As of current CSLB regulations, all active California contractor licenses must be backed by a $25,000 bond. Without it, your license cannot be issued, renewed, or kept active.

Who Needs a Contractor License Bond in California?

You need a $25,000 CSLB bond if you are:

  • Applying for a new California contractor license

  • Renewing an existing CSLB license

  • Reinstating an inactive or suspended license

  • Operating as a general contractor or specialty contractor

This requirement applies to:

  • General B Contractors

  • Specialty contractors (C-licenses)

  • Corporations, LLCs, and sole proprietors

How Much Does a $25,000 Contractor License Bond Cost?

Contractors do not pay the full $25,000. Instead, you pay a small annual premium, which is based on:

  • Personal credit

  • Business history

  • Licensing status

Typical annual costs range from:

  • $100–$250 per year for contractors with good credit

  • Higher for contractors with credit challenges (specialty programs available)

At Everybond, we work with multiple surety markets to help contractors secure the lowest possible rate, even if credit isn’t perfect.

What Happens If a Claim Is Filed Against Your Bond?

If a valid claim is filed and paid:

  • The surety pays the claimant (up to $25,000)

  • You are responsible for reimbursing the surety

A bond is not insurance—it is a financial guarantee. That’s why working with an experienced surety bond agency matters.

How to Get a Contractor License Bond Fast in California

Most contractors need their CSLB bond quickly—especially when licensing or renewal deadlines are approaching.

With Everybond, contractors can:

  • Apply online in minutes

  • Receive fast approval

  • Obtain same-day issuance in most cases

  • File the bond electronically or receive it immediately for CSLB submission

We specialize in California contractor bonds, so the process is simple, accurate, and compliant with CSLB requirements.

Contractor License Bond vs. Contractor Insurance

It’s important not to confuse bonds with insurance:

Contractor License Bond Contractor Insurance
Protects the public Protects the contractor
Required by CSLB Required by clients or contracts
Claims must be repaid Claims are covered by insurer

Many California contractors need both a license bond and insurance to operate legally.

Why Contractors Choose Everybond

California contractors trust Everybond because we offer:

  • Expertise in CSLB bond requirements

  • Fast online applications

  • Competitive rates

  • Credit-friendly programs

  • Support for new, renewing, and reinstating licenses

Whether you’re just starting out or managing multiple licenses, we make contractor bonding simple.

Get Your $25,000 California Contractor License Bond Today

If you need a California contractor license bond to obtain, renew, or reinstate your CSLB license:

  • Visit everybond.com to get started

  • Or call (310) 954-2006 to speak with a California contractor bond specialist

Stay compliant, protect your license, and keep your projects moving forward with Everybond.

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