CSLB Contractor's Law & Business Practice Exam

How long does a contractor have to renew an expired license before it becomes void?

1. One year

2. Three years

3. Five years

4. Indefinitely, as long as applied for renewal.

The correct answer is: Five years

A contractor has five years to renew an expired license before it becomes void. During this five-year period, the contractor can apply for renewal, but after this time frame, the license is no longer valid and the contractor would need to reapply for a new license entirely. This regulation emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper licensing status in order to continue operating legally in the contracting industry. Continuous compliance ensures that contractors meet legal and professional standards, which benefits both the contractor and their clients. While the other time frames are common periods for various administrative tasks or permits, they do not apply in this case. The renewal period for a contractor's license is specifically outlined, making the five-year window critical for maintaining licensure.