Home › California garage door contractor license (C-61/D-28)
California garage door contractor license (C-61/D-28)
Source: California Garage Door Help (californiagaragedoorhelp.com), part of the Local Help Stations network (localhelpstations.com). Last updated November 3, 2026.
CSLB licenses garage door contractors in the D-28 Doors, Gates and Activating Devices classification, a subcategory of the C-61 Limited Specialty license. A D-28 contractor installs, modifies or repairs all types of residential, commercial or industrial doors, including overhead or sliding door assemblies, power activated doors and gates, and low voltage or manually operated door hardware. (source: Contractors State License Board) (source: Contractors State License Board)
The older D-08 Doors and Door Services subcategory is no longer issued; CSLB lists it as now under D-28. Some contractors may still hold a valid, renewable license in a retired subcategory. (source: Contractors State License Board)
CSLB's C-28 Lock and Security Equipment class also covers doors: a C-28 contractor installs, maintains and repairs all doors and door assemblies, gates, locks and locking devices. (source: Contractors State License Board)
Getting the license
- The license needs a qualifier who is at least 18 and has four years of at least journey level experience in the last 10 years in the trade.
- All applicants must pass the law and business exam. No trade exam is required for the C-61 Limited Specialty license.
- Each new applicant must submit fingerprints for a criminal background check.
- An active license needs a $25,000 contractor's bond or cashier's check.
(source: Contractors State License Board)
Penalties for unlicensed work
Contracting without a license is a misdemeanor. A first conviction can bring a fine up to $5,000, up to six months in county jail, or both. A second conviction brings a fine of the greater of $5,000 or 20 percent of the contract price, and at least 90 days in jail in most cases. Charges must be filed within four years (B&P 7028). (source: California Legislature)
On this site: California garage door contractor license (C-61/D-28) · California garage door opener battery backup law (SB 969) · California garage door opener reversing and sensor rules · Do I need a permit to replace a garage door in California? · The door between a garage and a house in California · When does a California garage door repair need a license? · California home improvement contract and payment rules · How to check a California garage door contractor and complain · Can I replace my own garage door in California? · California garage door contractor license costs · Cities · FAQ · Sources
Sources
- Contractors State License Board (CSLB): D-28 Doors, Gates and Activating Devices Contractor classification (checked November 3, 2026)
- Contractors State License Board (CSLB): Get Licensed to Build: A Guide to Becoming a Licensed Contractor (PDF) (checked November 3, 2026)
- California Legislature (California Legislative Information): Business and Professions Code 7028 (unlicensed contracting) (checked November 2, 2026)
Last updated: