Painter License Requirements in California
License RequiredLast verified March 24, 2026
Agency And Exam
Issuing agency: California Contractors State License Board
Official licensing agency website
Exam provider: PSI
Reciprocity And License Levels
License levels
Painting and Decorating Contractor (C-33)
Reciprocity states
None listed
Notes
California requires painting contractors to hold a C-33 Painting and Decorating license issued by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Applicants must have 4 years of journey-level experience, pass a trade exam and law/business exam administered by PSI, and provide a contractor bond. Individual journeyman painters do not require a state license unless operating as a contractor.