What’s on everyone’s mind right now? The CSLB’s latest update regarding the COVID-19 virus!
The Board release says, “the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) remains committed to supporting our licensees, license applicants, and consumers. We’re working hard to remain accessible while continuing to provide our essential services. Thank you for your patience as we reinvent our workplace… All CSLB offices and test centers around California are currently closed to the public. We apologize for any inconvenience this causes, and for any delays you may experience reaching our staff or for any potential delays in our processing times.”
To Reschedule a Cancelled Exam: Exams@cslb.ca.gov
Be sure to include your name and application number. Please note that CSLB is waiving the rescheduling fee for cancelled exams.
For Enforcement Questions/Issues: Enforcement@cslb.ca.gov
Be sure to include your phone number and other relevant information, such as a complaint number, license number, citation or case number.
“CSLB’s Licensing Information Call Center remains open, with a 24/7 automated system, and techs on duty Mon-Fri 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. to answer calls at 1-800-321-CSLB. Most questions can be answered through the automated system, but there are options to transfer to a tech during business hours. Wait times can vary…”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should I or can I keep my business open?
“Your first step towards finding that answer is determining if your business serves an essential job function, as outlined by Governor Newsom in Executive Order N-33-20. You should refer to the state’s COVID-19 website: https://covid19.ca.gov/stay-home-except-foressential-needs/, which includes a “List of Critical Infrastructure Workers.” Be aware that the list can change as the situation dictates.”
2. Is CSLB reducing or waiving any fees?
“Absent emergency legislation, emergency regulations, or an executive order, CSLB cannot reduce or waive standing laws and regulations. CSLB can and has begun waiving the fee for license applicants to reschedule a canceled exam.”
3. Is CSLB extending the expiration date for contractor licenses?
“No, license expiration dates are not being extended. CSLB staff is still processing renewal paperwork. Pleasesend your renewal payment and paperwork at least four weeks before your expiration date to allow for any additional time it will take for the renewal to be delivered and processed.”
4. Is CSLB allowing additional time for applicants to get their license as a result of closing test centers?
“Yes, CSLB has extended the void date of license applications for 60 days, so applicants don’t have to worry about their application expiring and becoming void. This is especially important because many live scan locations have been closed due to the COVID-19 health emergency, possibly delaying applicants’ ability to submit required fingerprints.”
5. My license exam was canceled, what happens next?
CSLB says, “Test candidates can reschedule their exams via email at: Exams@cslb.ca.gov. They can also reschedule by phone at: (916) 255-3498. Due to expected high call volumes, CSLB recommends using email for a faster reply.”
6. Can I still file a complaint with CSLB?
“Yes, you can start the complaint process online at:https://www.cslb.ca.gov/Consumers/Filing_A_Complaint/.”
7. Is CSLB still investigating consumer complaints?
“Yes, CSLB Enforcement staff continues its work and is making an increased effort to communicate over the phone and through emails. The same goes for our complaint resolution and arbitration programs. It may take longer for us to address and close your complaint, but we’ll work as diligently as possible.”
With print space limits, Capitol Services is open and ready to assist contractors with any additional questions or issues, as we have for more than 30 years as your expert resource.
We hope that everyone stays safe out there in this difficult time. Wash your hands often, cover coughs or sneezes and respect the social distancing rules. (Please note some of the Covid-19 pandemic rules may no longer apply. Contact Capitol Services, Inc. for the latest information.)