CSLB reports expansion of testing and exam digitization, and steady application processing times

Licensing and testing staff told the Contractors State License Board about recent steps to expand testing access and modernize exams, and summarized application volumes and processing performance.

Staff reported more than 12,000 applications received in the most recent quarter (Nov.–Jan.), including more than 4,000 new-license applications and more than 28,000 renewal applications in the quarter cited. Staff said many processing times remain at three weeks or less.

On testing, staff reported 59,000 CSLB exams administered between Feb. 2025 and Jan. 2026; 82 of those were at the Wilsonville, Oregon test center and 191 were at other out-of-state centers. Two trade exams (C9 drywall and C15 flooring and floor covering) were released in an updated form; additional exams are being programmed with PSI for nationwide, digitized release. Staff described a digitization program to move laminated reference booklets into PSI's computer displays, which they said will lower shipping and handling costs and enhance security.

Staff cautioned that Spanish-language nationwide release of some exams remains limited while embedded Spanish graphics and formatting are completed; until that work is finished, certain Spanish versions still require physical booklets. The testing unit also reported updates to item banks to reflect the new Title 24 California building code sections and said study guides are being prepared for the website.

Staff also described outreach and support programs, including workshops in English and Spanish, veteran application assistance and reminders to applicants to reduce incomplete applications; a CMEA grant of $225,000 for instruction management at several universities was noted.

This was presented as an informational item; staff said they will continue outreach to applicants and return with rulemaking or operational recommendations as needed.