California Contractor Surety License Bond Renewal: What You Need to Know

Are you planning to work, or already working as, a licensed contractor in California? Before getting started on your next project, you’ll need to make sure you meet the requirements of the Contractors State License Board (CSLB).

An essential part of working as a CSLB licensed contractor is carrying a license bond — in fact, your license can’t even be issued until your bond is in place. These bonds exist to protect clients who may deal with faulty construction, damage, or other license law violations and employees from unpaid wages.

If you’re a licensed California contractor, read on for everything you need to know about renewing your bond in accordance with the CSLB.

California License Bond Requirements

California contractors are required to keep up-to-date licenses and bonds. However, just because your license is renewed doesn’t mean your bond is renewed, so it’s crucial to keep tabs on your bond to avoid a license suspension.

A California Senate bill increased contractor license bonds to $25,000 starting in 2023. If you’re currently a CSLB-licensed contractor, check with your surety company to ensure that your bond has been changed to this new limit.

California License Bond Renewals

Your surety company should file your license bond online with the CSLB on your behalf, and you’ll be able to check your bond status on the CSLB website. Clients can also access this information by entering their contractor license number.

When it comes time to renew your bond, your original surety company should contact you—but it’s best to keep tabs on your bond’s expiration date to ensure it doesn’t go out of date. If you’re looking to switch surety providers or update any information on your bond, you’ll want to get a head start on the process, as the CSLB must receive the bond within 90 days of the effective date of the bond. Our sister company CCIS provides license bonds and insurance for contractors in California.

Just as when you apply for your initial bond, your renewed bond must have the same business name and license number as your CSLB license number. Your bond must also be on the correct paperwork (found on the CSLB website) and signed by your surety company. Additionally, the start date of your new bond should be the same as the cancellation date of your old bond.

Please visit the CLSB site and its regulations for further review.