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A general engineering contractor installs, connects, places, and erects wires, appliances, fixtures, conduits, solar photovoltaic cells, or any part of them that generates, transmits, uses, or transforms energy in any form for any purpose.

If you are interested in earning your license as a general engineering contractor in California, you will need to meet specific qualifications and requirements to do so. 

In general, there are two types of pre-qualifications and requirements needed for this type of license in California:

• Bond and insurance requirements
• General engineering contractor pre-qualifications

You must have four years of related experience in the field under your belt before you can begin the process of obtaining your license.

Bond and Insurance Requirements for California General Engineering Contractors

All contractors must have a $15,000 bond on file with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). In addition to that, you will need a $12,500 qualifying individual’s bond on file if you’re a contractor who is qualified by an RME. 

Furthermore, all LLC licenses must have a $100,000 employee/worker bond on file for the benefit of employees and contractors who work for an LLC.

Be aware that any contractor who has employees must have workers’ compensation insurance validated by a Certificate of Insurance issued in the business’s name on the application. 

LLC licenses must also have liability insurance between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000. The amount is determined by the number of workers on the license. 

California General Engineering Contractor Pre-Qualifications

In order to obtain your license, you must pass the specific trade examination as well as the written Law and Business examination. The four years of required experience in general engineering work must have been completed within the last ten years.

This experience must be at a level no less than a journeyman level. It can be as a supervisor, foreman, contractor, or owner-builder as well. 

It should be noted that general engineering contractors in California have reciprocity with Utah, Nevada, Louisiana, and Arizona. There is no requirement for Continuing Education (CE) for license renewal.

Obtaining Your California General Engineering License

You must prepare to pass the state exams in order to move forward in the licensing process. Failing the exams can cause serious delays in your ability to become licensed. Contact the California Contractors State License Board at 800-321-2752 to receive an application packet.

Once you’ve prepared thoroughly for the state tests, you’ll need to submit the application packet to the California State Division. This will give you pre-approval to take the exams. Once you’ve passed the exams, you can apply through CSLB to obtain your license.

Prepare for Your General Engineering Tests with RocketCert

The importance of properly and thoroughly preparing for your licensure tests cannot be overstated. It’s vital that you choose an online study program that will provide you with the information and materials you need to pass the tests the first time you take it.

RocketCert offers state-approved courses and materials for trade licenses in California. We offer superior customer support, 24/7 access to materials, and expertly written courses. 

Get started preparing for your California general engineering license today with RocketCert and get it done right the first time.