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When does a California contractor need a license?
Source: California Electrician Help (californiaelectricianhelp.com), part of the Local Help Stations network (localhelpstations.com). Last updated November 2, 2026.
Electrical contractors are licensed by CSLB in the C-10 Electrical Contractor classification. A C-10 contractor places, installs, erects or connects electrical wires, fixtures, appliances, apparatus, raceways, conduits and solar photovoltaic cells that generate, transmit, transform or use electrical energy. (source: Contractors State License Board)
The contractor license law does not apply to work under $1,000 in total that is minor and does not need a building permit (B&P 7048). Most electrical work needs a permit in the cities on this site, so this exemption rarely covers it. Section 7048 was last amended effective January 1, 2026. (source: California Legislature)
The 2025 minor work change (AB 2622)
CSLB Industry Bulletin #24-07 (December 31, 2024) says that starting January 1, 2025, Assembly Bill 2622 increases the minor work license exemption from $500 to $1,000, with a catch: "the work cannot require a permit, and the unlicensed person cannot employ anyone for the project." (source: Contractors State License Board)
CSLB adds that if the work is subject to a permit requirement of any kind, or the unlicensed person hires one or more workers to assist or perform the work, a license is required even if the project is less than $1,000. (source: Contractors State License Board)
An unlicensed person who provides a bid greater than $1,000, performs work requiring a permit, or employs any workers is subject to legal action, CSLB says. (source: Contractors State License Board)
- Unlicensed individuals can now advertise for work up to $1,000 (from $500) if they disclose in the advertisement that they are not licensed.
- The minor work exemption does not apply to people who advertise they are licensed or qualified to act as contractors.
(source: Contractors State License Board)
Penalties
Contracting without a license is a misdemeanor. A first conviction can bring a fine up to $5,000, up to six months in county jail, or both. A second conviction brings a fine of the greater of $5,000 or 20 percent of the contract price, and at least 90 days in jail in most cases. Charges must be filed within four years (B&P 7028). (source: California Legislature)
On this site: California electrician license and certification rules · California electrician certification types, hours and fees · How to check a California electrician and complain · Do I need an electrical permit in California? · Electrical panel upgrade permits in California · EV charger permits in California · Who can install solar in California: C-10 or C-46 · Which electrical code does California use? · Electrical work that needs no permit in California cities · Electrical permit costs in California cities · Can I do my own electrical work in California? · When does a California contractor need a license? · California home improvement contract and payment rules · Cities · FAQ · Sources
Sources
- Contractors State License Board (CSLB): C-10 Electrical Contractor classification (checked November 2, 2026)
- California Legislature (California Legislative Information): Business and Professions Code 7048 (minor work exemption) (checked November 2, 2026)
- Contractors State License Board (CSLB): Industry Bulletin #24-07: License Requirement for Minor Work Increases from $500 to $1,000 (PDF, December 31, 2024) (checked November 2, 2026)
- California Legislature (California Legislative Information): Business and Professions Code 7028 (unlicensed contracting) (checked November 2, 2026)
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