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When does a California garage door repair need a license?
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 contractor license law does not apply to work under $1,000 in total that is minor and does not need a building permit (B&P 7048). Section 7048 was last amended effective January 1, 2026. (source: California Legislature)
The 2025 minor work change (AB 2622)
CSLB Industry Bulletin #24-07 (December 31, 2024) says that starting January 1, 2025, Assembly Bill 2622 increases the minor work license exemption from $500 to $1,000, with a catch: "the work cannot require a permit, and the unlicensed person cannot employ anyone for the project." (source: Contractors State License Board)
CSLB adds that if the work is subject to a permit requirement of any kind, or the unlicensed person hires one or more workers to assist or perform the work, a license is required even if the project is less than $1,000. (source: Contractors State License Board)
- Unlicensed individuals can now advertise for work up to $1,000 (from $500) if they disclose in the advertisement that they are not licensed.
- The minor work exemption does not apply to people who advertise they are licensed or qualified to act as contractors.
(source: Contractors State License Board)
Penalties
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 7048 (minor work exemption) (checked November 2, 2026)
- Contractors State License Board (CSLB): Industry Bulletin #24-07: License Requirement for Minor Work Increases from $500 to $1,000 (PDF, December 31, 2024) (checked November 2, 2026)
- California Legislature (California Legislative Information): Business and Professions Code 7028 (unlicensed contracting) (checked November 2, 2026)
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