California CSLB License Application & Examination Preparation Original Application Exam Study Guides
Experience

Build an experience claim that can survive review.

Document journey-level, foreman, supervisor, contractor, owner-builder, education, apprenticeship, and firsthand verification for the requested classification.

What counts

Experience receives credit when performed at journey level or as a foreman, supervising employee, contractor, or qualified owner-builder in the requested classification.

What does not count as full journey-level experience

Helper, laborer, trainee, assistant, and incomplete apprentice work do not automatically meet the journey-level standard.

Who verifies it

The certifier needs firsthand knowledge and can be an employer, contractor, supervisor, fellow journeyman, union representative, building inspector, architect, engineer, or homeowner who actually observed the work.

Prepare supporting evidence

Keep payroll and tax records, contracts, permits, invoices, project lists, employment records, apprenticeship completion, transcripts, and owner-builder project forms. CSLB can request documentation even after the experience form is certified.