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California contractor examWho gives it, fees, retakes
California's contractor license needs a passing exam score, given by PSI.
What is on the California contractor exam?
- Who gives it
- PSI1
- The exam
- Two exams: Law and Business, and a trade exam for your classification (C-61 has no trade exam). PSI gives both by computer, multiple choice, 3.5 hours each. New applicants also take an open-book asbestos exam.1
- Retakes
- You have 18 months from your application to pass, and can retake an exam after 21 days.1
Exam fee: check with Contractors State License Board (CSLB).
Journeyman and master exams in California
Electrician
- Who gives it
- Pearson VUE (CPS HR Consulting runs the exam for DLSE; book through Pearson VUE after DLSE approves you)2
- Exam fee
- $100
How do you book the exam?
Apply to the CSLB first. The board approves your application, then tells you how to schedule with the testing company (PSI). Contractors State License Board (CSLB)
Sources
- Contractors State License Board (CSLB): exam (cslb.ca.gov, 2026-10-27)
- California electrician license: exam (dir.ca.gov, 2026-10-27)