How do I check if a contractor is licensed and insured in California?
Check the license on CSLB's "Check a License" tool or in this directory and confirm it reads Active. For insurance, look at two things CSLB reports — the contractor bond and workers' compensation — then ask the contractor for a current certificate of general liability insurance, which is not part of the CSLB record.
Verified against CSLB on · reflects current CSLB rules and California law.
Summary — key takeaways
- "Licensed" and "insured" are separate checks — confirm both.
- CSLB shows license status, the bond, and workers' comp — but not general liability insurance.
- Ask the contractor for a current certificate of general liability insurance.
- Workers' comp protects you if a worker is injured on your property.
- Verify large policies directly with the insurer, not just the contractor.
Licensed and insured are two separate checks
"Licensed" and "insured" are separate checks. License status, the contractor bond, and workers' compensation are all in the CSLB public record and shown on each profile here. General liability insurance — which covers property damage and injuries on your job — is not tracked by CSLB, so you have to request a current certificate of insurance directly from the contractor.
Why workers' compensation matters to you
Workers' compensation matters for your protection: if an uninsured worker is hurt on your property, you can be exposed. Any California contractor with employees must carry workers' comp, and several classifications must carry it even with no employees (see the workers' comp guide). A contractor with no employees may instead file a CSLB exemption — confirm which applies.
Get proof of insurance before you sign
Before signing, get the certificate of insurance, confirm the policy is current, and ask to receive proof directly from the insurer rather than from the contractor alone.
Frequently asked questions
Does CSLB show whether a contractor is insured?
CSLB shows the contractor's bond and workers' compensation status, but not general liability insurance. For liability coverage, ask the contractor for a current certificate of insurance from their insurer.
What's the difference between bonded and insured?
A contractor bond is a limited financial guarantee tied to the licensing law; insurance (liability or workers' comp) protects against damage and injury. They are different protections — see the licensed vs. bonded vs. insured guide.
Should I ask a contractor for proof of insurance?
Yes. Request a current certificate of general liability insurance and confirm workers' compensation coverage before work begins. Verify it directly with the insurer when the job is large.
Verify a contractor