How Hard Is the CSLB License Exam?
Whether the exam is hard for you depends on various factors. First, some people are natural test takers, while others don't do well under pressure. Your likelihood of success also depends on your background in your field and whether you've taken the time to read about the exam and study for it. Since many of the questions are multiple choice, the majority of people who spend a lot of time studying are able to pass first time.
What Do I Have to Do Before Taking the Exam?
Before you can sit your exam, you'll need to complete an Application for Original Contractor's License. This includes listing all your qualifying work experience and submitting your personal data for review. It's important to take this step seriously because you'll have to start all over again if your application gets rejected. This is time-consuming and expensive, since the application processing fee is $450.
You can apply for one license at a time, but once you've passed your exam, you can apply for an additional one. Once your application has been accepted, you'll have to pass a criminal background check, and you'll be fingerprinted. Then, you can start studying for your exam.
What Is Qualifying Experience?
Only people who have passed the relevant certifications and gained some experience as a journeyman contractor, foreman, contractor, or owner-builder can take the exam, so you'll need to prove that you have worked in your field. This requirement is designed to confirm that you are able to complete your job without supervision and that you have completed a relevant apprenticeship.
To qualify for the exam, you must have a minimum of four years of experience in the field you are applying for. An employer, supervisor, or foreman must confirm that they have personally observed you doing the work and that the claims on your application are true. The CSLB is strict about this requirement, so bring as much documentation of your certifications and your experience as you can.
The Criminal Background Review
The main purpose of the CSLB is making sure contractors will be safe on the job and don't put anyone at risk. For this reason, all applicants have to submit their fingerprints so a background check can be conducted. The prints are compared to the ones on the records of the California DOJ and the FBI. You will receive instructions on when and where you can have your fingerprints taken.
You'll also get a "Request for Live Scan Service" form. Fill out the third section and bring three copies of it to a Live Scan Station near you. You will have to pay $32 to the DOJ and $17 to the FBI, and there will be a rolling fee for the use of the Live Scan Station. Make sure that the quality of your fingerprints is high because your application could be rejected or delayed otherwise.
Studying for the Exam
Once your application has been accepted, you can start studying for your exam. There are two components, and the first one, the Law and Business examination, is mandatory for everyone. It covers construction law and business management, so it is relevant to all contractors. This exam is in multiple-choice form. There is a study guide, which will be sent to you along with your Notice to Appear for Examination.
The second component is specific to your trade or certification. There are over 60 different exams, including residential remodeling, insulation and acoustical, electrical, fencing, landscaping, plumbing, refrigeration, and solar. You'll receive a study guide for your chosen trade, which details the components and structure of your examination.
Getting Your License Issued
You'll know right away whether you've passed your test. If so, you'll be given a fee notification and a bond. Read up on what you need to do to get your license issued. Some of the requirements include your $200-350 licensing fee, a completed asbestos open-book examination, and a certificate that proves that you have the right kind of insurance.
I Have My License - What Now?
If you've recently passed your CSLB exam, you're now ready to set up your small contracting company. To make sure you're successful, come up with a comprehensive business plan that includes what services you'll offer, how many employees you'll start with, and how you will advertise your services to make sure you have a steady stream of customers.
A great way to simplify and speed up your admin tasks is to purchase home service software. A program like ServiceBox can replace an administrative assistant and help you complete many routine tasks faster. For example, it keeps track of your schedule, allows you to send and receive employee updates in real-time, stores your customers' data, and even helps you to manage your online marketing channels.
Do I Really Need Software?
At first, you might feel that you don't need software because you have a limited number of employees and customers. But if you provide a good service, this will soon change, and you'll struggle to keep up with your weekly schedule. It's best to set up a good system from the start. That way, you won't have to spend time learning about software and training employees when you're very busy.
Passing the CSLB license exam is an important first step for contractors in California because it allows them to open a business and offer their contracting services to clients. Although the examination isn't a walk in the park, you shouldn't have any trouble passing it if you study hard and make sure you know all the requirements. Give us a call at ServiceBox to find out more about how to set up your business in the simplest, most efficient way possible.
