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California General Contractor License Renewal: Fees & Requirements (2026)

Data verified: March 2026 · Source: Contractors State License Board · Methodology →

California GC Renewal at a Glance

Renewal Fee
$400
CE Required
8 CE Hours
Renewal Cycle
2 years
Late Fee
$600
Grace Period
30 days

California general contractors must complete 8 hours of continuing education per renewal cycle.

How to Renew Your California GC License

  1. 1

    Complete 8 CE Hours

    Complete 8 CE Hours during the 2-year renewal period. Keep certificates of completion — the Contractors State License Board may audit your CE records.

  2. 2

    Submit your renewal application

    Log in to the Contractors State License Board online licensing portal before your license expiration date. Complete the renewal application and attest to CE completion if required.

  3. 3

    Pay the $400 renewal fee

    Pay the $400 base renewal fee. If renewing after expiration but within the 30-day grace period, the late fee of $600 applies.

  4. 4

    Confirm license renewal

    Download or print your renewed license. Verify your new expiration date and confirm the license appears as active in the Contractors State License Board's public license lookup.

Official Licensing Board

Contractors State License Board

www.cslb.ca.gov →

Calculate Your Total Renewal Cost

Use the full General Contractor calculator to factor in late fees, compare all 51 states, or estimate CE costs.

Open California GC Calculator →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the California General Contractor renewal fee? +
The base renewal fee for a General Contractor license in California is $400 per 2-year renewal cycle. The late renewal fee is $600 (grace period: 30 days).
How many CE Hours does California require for GC renewal? +
California requires 8 CE Hours per 2-year renewal cycle for General Contractor licensees.
Which board regulates General Contractor licenses in California? +
The Contractors State License Board regulates General Contractor licenses in California. Visit their official website for the most current renewal instructions and fee schedule.
What happens if my California GC license expires? +
California provides a 30-day grace period after expiration during which you can renew by paying the late fee of $600. After the grace period, your license may become lapsed and require a reinstatement process.
Data last verified January 2025 from official board sources. Fees change without notice — verify current amounts at Contractors State License Board before submitting payment. How we source our data →