How to Get Your California Lathing and Plastering Contractor License

Obtaining a California Lathing and Plastering Contractor License, specifically the C35 classification, involves several steps to ensure you are qualified and prepared to perform lathing and plastering work. Here's a detailed guide to help you through the process:

1. Determine Your Eligibility:Before you can apply, you need to meet certain requirements, including:
   • Being at least 18 years or older.
   • Having four years of journeyman-level experience in the lath and plaster field.
   • Possessing a SSN or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number).
2. Submit Your Application: Complete the Application for Original Contractor License provided by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). You will need to apply as a business entity and provide detailed information about your work experience and employment history.
3. Application Review: Once submitted, the CSLB will review your application. This process can take several weeks. You will receive an acknowledgment letter from the CSLB, and they may request additional information or clarification during this time.
4. Examination: If your application is accepted, you will need to schedule two exams – the Law and Business exam and the specific trade exam for Lathing and Plastering (C35). Studying for these exams is crucial, and you can seek help from an exam preparation school such as Contractors Intelligence School.
5. Fingerprinting and Background Check: All applicants must undergo fingerprinting and a background check as part of the application process.
6. Obtain a Bond: California requires contractors to have a contractor's bond. This bond is a financial guarantee that protects your clients and the state from any substandard work or violations of contractor law.
7. Receive Your License: After passing the exams and fulfilling all other requirements, you will receive your C35 license, allowing you to legally operate as a lathing and plastering contractor in California.

Application and Other Costs for the C35 Lathing and Plastering License

Applying for a C35 license involves several costs, which are important to budget for as you prepare to start on this licensing journey. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs:

• Business Entity Registration (if applicable):This fee can vary from one county or city to another. It is best to obtain the dollar amount from the agency where you are registering your business.
• Application Fee:The application fee is $450. This fee covers the processing of your application and is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.
• Initial License Fee:Once you pass the exams, you will need to pay an initial licensing fee, which is typically around $200 for sole ownership companies and $350 for non-sole-ownership companies. This fee activates your license.
• School Fees: Contractors Intelligence charges between $295 and $495 for their most popular courses. Prices may differ with other schools.
• Fingerprinting and Background Check: The cost for fingerprinting can vary, but it is generally estimated to be $75. This fee typically includes the Department of Justice (DOJ) fee, FBI fee, and the live scan location rolling fee.
• Contractor’s Bond: The cost of the contractor’s bond varies based on your credit score and the bond amount, but you can expect to pay approximately $250 for a standard bond. If you're applying for a contractor's license as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), you'll also need to carry additional bonding, known as the LLC/worker bond, which is estimated to cost around $2,000 per year. These bonding costs are unique to your business and should be assessed by a licensed insurance company.
• Insurance: Your business may require two types of insurance: general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. The costs for these insurances are unique to your business and should be evaluated by a licensed insurance company.

Additionally, a C35 contractor is skilled in installing various types of lath, such as wood and metal, or any other material that provides a base or bond for plaster coatings. This includes the crucial task of attaching materials that create key or suction bases to ensure the plaster sticks well. Their expertise extends to channel work and installing metal studs, which are necessary for supporting metal lath or other lathing materials. They can even build solid plaster partitions using these materials.

Working as a Lathing and Plastering Contractor in California

Once you have obtained your C35 license, you can look forward to a rewarding career in the lathing and plastering industry. Here are some key benefits and insights into working in this field:

• High Demand and Scarcity: The construction industry is facing a scarcity of highly skilled lathing and plastering contractors. This shortage means that qualified professionals are in high demand, ensuring steady work opportunities and the potential for premium pay rates.
• Specialized Skill Set: Lathing and plastering require specialized skills that not many possess. Mastery of techniques such as applying surface coatings, setting up support structures, and using various plaster mixtures makes you an invaluable asset on any construction project.
• Independence and Entrepreneurship: As a licensed contractor, you have the freedom to start your own business, choose your projects, and build a client base. This independence allows you to set your own schedule and take on projects that interest you the most.

Take Action!

By following the steps to obtain your C35 license and meeting the necessary requirements, you can become a licensed lathing and plastering contractor in California. To make this journey easier, call Contractors Intelligence School at 800-425-7570. Their knowledgeable staff, efficient study courses, and skilled instructors will help you achieve your licensing goals.

Published on: November 15, 2024

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