By Shauna Krause, President, Capitol Services, Inc.
While you can test, and test again, there is a time limit that has to ‘pass’ before you can!
Mandated some time ago, a new requirement in licensing is shaking up tree services. Another contractor also finds that change happens, but I provide a ‘timely’ option to solve his problem…
Q: I just recently submitted an application to replace our current Responsible Managing Officer (RMO) for our“C-29” (Masonry) license. I have 90 days to complete the process. I assume that the tests for the masonry trade are given less frequently than for the General contracting license. Is there a schedule for these? I want to make sure I have plenty of time to re-take the exam if I don’t pass it the first time around.
A: The masonry exams are given just as often as the general exams. The exams are administered by PSI and all types of exams are available to be scheduled Monday-Friday. They are computer based exams so when an applicant goes to take the test, everyone in the testing facility is there taking different exams. Keep in mind that if you do not pass the first time around, you are required to wait three weeks before you can re-schedule.
Q: Our company has held a General Building (“B”) license for many years. We have recently tried to pull permits for work that we have always done on manufactured homes and they informed us that we are now required to hold a “C-47”(Manufactured Housing) license in order to pull a permit starting 7/1/2024. Is this accurate, and is this something you can assist us with?
A: Yes, this is accurate information. This is a federal HUD requirement that actually has been “required” since 2021, but it’s an official mandate starting July 1st, 2024. According to a deputy at the CSLB, this is due to the fact that manufactured homes are not built to the same standards as conventionally built homes. Therefore, you will need to add the “C-47” classification to your license. Your “B” Qualifier can waive the trade exam if he/she has held the General Building license for at least five years on your license, and they can show permits and inspection reports for work done on manufactured homes. In addition, he/she is required to obtain a completion certificate from a HUD-administered installation program in accordance with 3286.11.
Q: I recently changed from a Sole Proprietorship to a corporation. I am a “C-61”/“D49” contractor. My application was rejected and the CSLB’s letter stated that the D49 classification is no longer in existence. Apparently I am now required to sit for a C49 exam. When I called the CSLB in January, they informed me that because I already hold the “C-61”/“D49” (Tree Service/Specialty) classification, I would be able to keep it. Now I’m being told I need to sit for an exam?
A: The CSLB is no longer issuing “C-61”/“D49” licenses. Originally, the CSLB was allowing current “D49” contractors to keep their Tree Service/Specialty classification when applying for a new license, however they recently determined that any new applicant applying for a “D49”, regardless of whether they held it previously, is required to update their classification to a “C-49”(Tree Service). The “C-49” requires a trade exam.
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While knowledge is power, knowing where to go for the answers is half the battle. Get expert assistance immediately when you call 866-443-0657, email info@cutredtape.com, or write us at Capitol Services, Inc., 3609 Bradshaw Rd, Ste H, #343, Sacramento, CA 95827. Search past columns at www.cutredtape.com