Stockton Handyman / Home Contractor License Requirements (2026)

📋 Your checklist

State

1. California contractor license (CSLB) — when needed
   Needed for any job of $1,000 or more in labor and materials, any job needing a building permit, or any job using employees. Jobs can't be split to stay under the limit.
   ⏰ Active licenses expire every two years (verify your date on CSLB)
   Source: California CSLB: Who needs a contractor license · California CSLB: General renewal information
2. Secretary of State and Franchise Tax Board filings
   LLCs and corporations file a Statement of Information ($20 or $25) and most businesses pay at least $800 a year in Franchise Tax. A business name other than your own is filed with your county.
   ⏰ Statement of Information: frequency depends on entity type (verify). Franchise tax: yearly
   Source: California Secretary of State: Business entities FAQs

Local (Stockton / San Joaquin County)

1. City of Stockton Business License
   No one may engage in a business without first getting a license; self-employed people and independent contractors pay the Business Tax too.
   ⏰ Renewal forms mailed before expiration; pay within 30 days of the expiration date (penalties after)
   Source: City of Stockton: Business Licenses