The California Contractors State License Board issues contractor licenses for dozens of specialty construction fields. Those who lay concrete and do other concrete-related construction work must have a California concrete contractor license. Those who individually qualify or companies with a qualifying person can get a license. Such person must obtain a certain amount of concrete work experience and then take and pass a California concrete exam. Successful applicants can contract to perform concrete work in California.
One place to start getting qualified as a concrete contractor in this state is to attend classes. While the board does not specifically recommend any construction schools or programs, college or technical-school courses may be helpful in both gaining the knowledge to do concrete work and getting a job. In fact, securing a job as an employee is absolutely required to get a concrete license.
The qualifying person for a licensed contractor must have accumulated four years of concrete construction experience in the last 10 years. In addition, all of this time must be spent as either a journeyman, supervisor, contractor or foreman. Time spent as a concrete-construction trainee is excluded from the required work experience.
A limited number of individuals may be able to do concrete work in California without a state contractor license. Refer to the board’s “Blueprint” publication for contractors in the Resources below to see the possible exceptions.
Testing Requirements:
In addition to the concrete trade exam, all California contractor applicants must pass a California Law and Business contractor exam. Look in the Resources below to find links to study guides for both of these exams.
You should really get ready for the exam before you even apply. That way, you will not have to worry about cramming for the test and possibly running out of time.
When you look at each study guide, you will see an exam content outline which tells you the basic topics on each test and study references. Purchase the references to prepare yourself for the California concrete and Law and Business exams.
Caution:
You will also have to submit fingerprints and undergo a criminal background check when applying as a California contractor. The only hard and fast rule on this is that you will be denied if you lie about having a criminal record. As far as actual convictions affecting your application, that is decided on an individual basis.
Application Process
In the Resources below, you will find an application form. Fill out this form and choose the C-8 classification, which is for California concrete contractors. As of 2010, there is a $250 application fee. Assuming you pass your exam, then there will be a separate $150 license fee to get your concrete license.
Financial Requirements:
The following are the basic financial requirements for working as a concrete contractor in California:
a. Working capital of at least $2500
b. Workers compensation insurance if you are required to have that based on California law
c. $12,500 contractors surety bond
d. $7500 bond to cover the qualifying person
Some exceptions apply. Read the blueprint to determine those exceptions and other licensing details.
Sources:
Study Guide for the California Law and Business Exam
California Concrete License Application
California Concrete Contractor Exam Study Guide
Blueprint for California Concrete and Other Contractor Licenses
