California requires all contractors to obtain a California Contractor License Bond before they get licensed. It protects consumers, employees, and the CSLB by providing financial recourse for damages that licensing violations or contractual failures may cause. It ensures compliance, safeguards against substandard work, and secures employee wages and benefits.

This guide will walk you through the requirements, costs, and application process for contractor license bonds in California.

California Contractor License Bond Requirements

A California Contractor License Bond is required by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). CSLB oversees about 239,000 contractors in 45 different licensing classifications as of January 2025.

Every contractor or contractor-qualifying individual must file a $25,000 CSLB surety bond to obtain or maintain their licensed status.

Companies structured as Limited Liability Companies (LLC) will need to post an additional $100,000 LLC Employee Worker Bond.

If any contractors have their license revoked for violating the Contractors' License Law, they must file a disciplinary bond to reinstate their license with the CSLB.

To meet the CLSB requirements for a Contractor License Bond, contractors must:

  • Ensure the bond is issued by a company licensed to operate in California.
  • Renew the bond annually or as required to obtain and maintain an active contractor's license with the CSLB.

Failure to maintain an active bond can result in license suspension or penalties.

Bryant Surety Bonds can help you get any California contractor license bond you need. Complete our online application form to get a free instant quote.

Start your surety bond application today! Why us?
  • The lowest possible rates
  • A 100% money-back guarantee
  • Access to specialty programs, not available to small agencies

How Much Does a California Contractor License Bond Cost?

The cost of a California Contractor License Bond depends on several factors. Individual CSLB or qualifying individual license bond premiums typically range between $250 and $750 per year (1-3% of the bond amount) for applicants with good credit.

California Contractor License Bond Cost

Factors influencing the bond cost are:

  • Credit score
  • Financial history
  • Fixed and liquid assets
  • Experience in the industry


License Type Bond Amount Bond Premium
Contractor License Bond $25,000 Starting from $250
Qualifying Individual Contractor Bond $25,000 Starting from $250
LLC Employee Worker Bond $100,000 Starting from $1,000
Farm Labor Contractor Bond $25,000 Starting from $250
Contractor Disciplinary Bond Varies Varies
Foreign Labor Contractor Bond $1,000-$100,000 $100-$1,000
City of Palos Verdes Estates Contractor Bond $10,000-$20,000 $100-$200
City of Los Angeles Subdivision Labor and Material Payment Bond $1,000-$100,000 $100-$1,000
City of Los Angeles Excavation Bond $1-$200,000 Up to $2,000
City of Los Angeles Import/Export Street Use Payment Bond $1,000-$1,500,000 $100-$15,000
City of Los Angeles Tree Replacement and Relocation Bond $1,000-$100,000 $100-$1,000
Tulare County Encroachment Bond $5,000-$25,000 Varies
City of Los Angeles Sewer/Storm Drain Connection Bond $10,000-$100,000 $100-$1,000
City of San Francisco Street Excavation Bond $25,000 Starting from $250
City of Sunnyvale Maintenance Bond $1,000-$500,000 $100-$5,000
City of Escondido Guarantee and Warranty of Improvements Bond

(Bond amount is 10% of the faithful performance bond)

$1,000-$100,000 $100-$1,000
City of Pacifica Encroachment Permit Bond $1-$100,000 Up to $1,000
City of Escondido Material and Labor Bond

(Bond shall not be less than 50% of the total estimated price)

$1,000-$100,000 $100-$1,000
City of Palmdale Performance and Payment Bond $1,000-$100,000 $100-$1,000
City of Santa Ana Public Improvements Bond $1,000-$300,000 $100-$3,000
City of Vista Landscaping and Irrigation Bond $1,000-$100,000 $100-$1,000
City of Westminster Labor and Materials Bond $1,000-$100,000 $100-$1,000
Sacramento Suburban Water District Encroachment Permit and Maintenance Bond $25,000 Starting from $250
City of Beverly Hills Demolition Bond $1,000-$100,000 $100-$1,000
City of Fremont Labor and Material Bond $1,000-$100,000 $100-$1,000
City of Fresno Streetwork and Excavation Bond $25,000 Starting from $250
City of Pomona Labor and Material Payment Bond $1,000-$100,000 $100-$1,000
City of Pomona Warranty and Maintenance Bond $1,000-$100,000 $100-$1,000
City of San Clemente Labor and Materials Bond $1,000-$100,000 $100-$1,000
Department of Real Estate Subdivision Bond $1,000-$100,000 $100-$1,000
Department of Transportation Payment Bond $1,000-$500,000 $100-$5,000
Rowland Water District Contractor Payment Bond $1,000-$500,000 $100-$5,000
Contra Costa County Well Driller Performance Bond $5,000 Starting from $100
San Luis Obispo County Well Driller Bond $25,000 Starting from $250

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How to Get a California Contractor License Bond

First, you will need to apply for your CLSB license. This license enables individuals and businesses to work in various classifications in California. It ensures that all contractors meet the necessary qualifications to operate within their field, including proper education and bond coverage.

Follow these steps to apply for a CSLB contractor license:

  1. Determine the appropriate contractor licensing classification for your business:
    • Class A: General Engineering Contractor
    • Class B: General Building Contractor
    • Class B-2: Residential Remodeling Contractor
    • Class C: Specialty Contractor (Roofing, Plumbing, etc.)
  2. Complete the Application for Original Contractor License online.
  3. Pay the required application fees and pass all necessary exams.

After your application is accepted, the CSLB will provide instructions for completing the fingerprinting requirements.

Want to know more? See our California Contractor License Guide for more information about getting your license.

Once you are licensed, you can get your California Contractor License Bond:

  1. Submit your application, including details such as your license classification, company name, company address, application fee number (new applicants only), and license number (renewal applicants only).
  2. Receive a personalized bond premium quote based on several factors we’ve outlined above.
  3. Once approved, you'll receive your bond, which your surety provider will file directly with the CSLB on your behalf. Contractors do not file their own surety bonds with the CSLB.

FAQs

1. Can I apply for a California Contractor License Bond with bad credit?

Applicants with bad credit can also get bonded though at slightly higher rates. Check out our bad credit program at Bryant Surety Bonds for more information.

2. What happens if a claim is filed against my bond?

Claims can be filed against a contractor bond for non-compliance with contractual agreements, violations of the California Business and Professions Code, and damages caused to clients or third parties. In this case, contractors are responsible for reimbursing the bonding company for valid claims.

3. How long does it take to get a CSLB surety bond?

Usually, it is different with every surety company because they require an underwriting process to calculate your California contractor license bond premium. However, with Bryant Surety Bonds you can get your contractor license bond on the same day.

4. What other types of surety bonds are required of contractors in California?

For specific projects, you might also require a bid bond, payment bond, performance bond, or another type of contract bond.

Additional Resources


About us:
Bryant Surety Bonds, Inc. is a surety bond agency based in Pennsylvania. Licensed in all 50 states and with access to over 20 T-listed, A-Rated bonding companies, we have the contacts, expertise, and top service to provide you with a hassle-free experience, all while offering competitive rates for your surety bond.