An Overview of Obtaining Your Concrete Contracting License In California
You want to begin your career pouring concrete and performing renovations for concrete flooring systems. You already have a lot of experience, but now you want to apply for a license. Here is a step-by-step guide to obtaining your license in the state of California:
How To
Obtain A License
Licensing for concrete contractors in the state of California will require that you have at least four years of previous experience at a journeyman level. You must pass a two-part state exam that the Contractor State License Board (CSLB) administers. To register for the exam, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years of age
- You must possess a valid driver’s license (or other forms of government-issued IDs)
- You must provide your Social Security Number
- You can’t be on parole or probation
- You must have four years of experience at a journeyman level
- You must have a qualifying individual sponsor you
What Is
Journeyman Experience?
The state of California classifies experience at a journeyman level as an unlicensed worker for a concrete contractor that holds a C-8 License. These are individuals who can perform all the work and duties associated with concrete installation and
renovation (minus the license). The CSLB will require that you have at least four years of experience in the past ten years of your work history before undergoing the application process. The years don’t need to be consecutive.
We also want to discuss your sponsorship from a qualifying individual. Here are all the examples of people who can sign off on your experience: a Licensed General Contractor, C-8 License Holder, Fellow Employee (within last 10 years), Current or former Supervisor (within the last 10 years), Business Associate, Fellow Journeyman and Union Representative.
Proving
Your Work Experience
You will need to submit documentation verifying your work history. There are several ways in which you can prove your experience, and they include your previous tax returns, check stubs, contracts, and invoices or receipts. Because the CSLB receives thousands of applications every year, it’s important that you accurately submit your work history. Pictures of your previous projects are not accepted.
What Is A
C-8 Concrete Contractor
California recognizes a licensed C-8 concrete contractor as someone who “forms, pours, places, finishes and installs specified mass, pavement, flat and other concrete work; and places and sets screeds for pavements or flatwork.” The C-8 license does not include the application of plaster coatings or the placing and erecting of steel or bars for reinforcing building structures. If the price of the project exceeds $500, then you will need to possess that C-8 concrete contractor license.
Application Processing
Fees And Criminial History
Processing timelines and test dates are always subject to change. You can expect the CSLB to process your application in about 6-8 weeks, and then you will likely need to wait another three weeks to take your exam. The delayed processing times are due to several reasons: the time of year, your criminal history, proof of experience, and errors made on your application.
Does A Felony Conviction Preclude You
From Receiving A C-8 License?
Having a criminal history won’t prevent you from obtaining your license. However, you will need to be honest and upfront about it on your application – even if you hired a lawyer to expunge your previous convictions. The CSLB handles criminal records on a case-by-case basis. The criminal charges that concern them the most include Fraud, Embezzlement and Forgery. The CSLB may require you to submit additional information regarding your criminal record.
Online Resources
And Practice Tests
Not only can you access a test exam online, but you will also find plenty of study materials. However, we want to offer some advice when it comes to the topics and subject matter covered in the exam. Many construction professionals will tell you to be prepared for anything. Studying for a minimum of 10 minutes every day prior to the exam will greatly increase your chances of passing the exam. We also strongly recommend that you only focus on the information covered in the exam.
Conclusion
The process of obtaining your license may seem daunting, but it will be worth it in the end. It represents a huge step forward in your career and it will pave the way for greater opportunities. If you are looking to start a concrete contracting company and grow your influence in your local community, then obtaining your license is a must. If you need any assistance, then you are encouraged to contact the CSLB.
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