Blog

In California, the average plumber makes more than $56k a year. For licensed, experienced, and skilled technicians, that number can rise above $100k. 

So if you’re considering a career in plumbing, we’re not surprised. It’s a great way to make a living in The Golden State. But how do you get a plumbing license in California?

Below, we’ve broken down everything you need to know about receiving a C-36 plumbing contractor license in the state of California. 

Licensing Requirements

Qualifying for a C-36 plumbing license is a three-step process. First, you must pass a few exams. Second, you must have proof of 4 years of plumbing experience within the last ten years. Third, you must meet the bond and insurance requirements.

Speaking of bond and insurance, here is a breakdown of those requirements:

• All contractors must have $15k worth of contractor’s bond with the CSLB
• Contractors that are qualified by an MRE must have an additional $12.5K bond
• LLC businesses must have an additional $100k bond
• Contractors with employees must have Worker’s Compensation insurance
• All contractors must have appropriate liability insurance

Do you meet these requirements? Then it’s time for the exam and application phases. 

What Exam Do You Need to Take?

To receive your license, you must pass two separate exams. First, you’ll need to take and pass the Business Law Exam. Then, you’ll need to tackle the C-36 Exam. Both tests are straightforward and will require familiarity with these subjects:

• Safety
• Public works
• Plumbing systems
• Bonds, liens, and insurance
• Service, maintenance, and repair of plumbing systems
• Planning and estimation

If you would like to master these topics from home, choose RocketCert.

How Do You Get Your License?

To obtain your license, you must follow these steps:

1. Prepare and study for the exam
2. Pass the exam with the help of RocketCert’s online exam prep
3. Apply for a license through the Contractors State License Board (CSLB)

If you have any questions about how you can prepare for an exam, pass an exam, or apply for a license, give us a call.

Why Should You Get Your License?

If you have four years of plumbing experience and want to continue working, there is no reason not to get your license. With a license, you’ll be able to achieve any or all of these goals:

• Open a business
• Advertise your services
• Obtain insurance
• Bid on government and public projects
• Obtain building permits
• Pass inspections

You should also know that California requires all contractors to be licensed if they want to complete projects valued at $500 or more. 

Obtaining your license will make you more appealing to clients. A license will help you protect yourself, your projects, and your clients. Licensed contractors make an average of $64,740 — that’s more than $12,000 over the state average. 

We hope you are convinced of the benefits of obtaining a C-36 plumbing license. As you move forward, make sure to contact RocketCert so we can provide the online materials you need to reach your education goals. With our No Pass No Pay guarantee, you know we’re with you every step of the journey.