Working Under Someone Else’s License? Know the Legal Risks

As you prepare for your California contractor license exam, you’re likely focused on technical knowledge, safety codes, and business practices. But there’s a crucial legal topic every aspiring contractor must understand: the risks of working under someone else’s license. This practice, tempting as a shortcut, can have serious consequences for your career, your finances, and even your freedom. Let’s explore why this is such a critical issue in California, what the law says, and how you can protect yourself as you start your contracting journey.

The Law: Licenses Are Not Transferable

In California, contractor licenses are strictly regulated by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Each license is issued to a specific individual or legal entity and is absolutely non-transferable. That means you cannot legally perform construction work-especially jobs valued over $500 in labor and materials-using someone else’s license, no matter how well-intentioned the arrangement might seem.

Think of a contractor’s license like a driver’s license: you wouldn’t let someone else drive using your ID, and you can’t “borrow” another contractor’s license for your own projects. The CSLB and state law are clear: any attempt to work under another person’s license is illegal, and the consequences can be severe78.

What Happens If You Violate the Law?

The risks of working under someone else’s license go far beyond a slap on the wrist. California law treats this as a serious offense, often a misdemeanor, but sometimes a felony if fraud is involved or if you use someone’s license without their knowledge.

Here’s what you could face if you’re caught:

  • Criminal Charges: Using another person’s contractor license number with intent to defraud is a crime under California Business and Professions Code 7027.3. Convictions can result in hefty fines and, in some cases, up to three years in prison.
  • Loss of Payment: If you perform work without your own valid license, you’re legally barred from collecting payment for your work-even if the job was completed perfectly. You may even be ordered to return all money you’ve received for unlicensed work.
  • Civil Liability: If a problem arises with the project-say, a structural defect or an injury-the licensed contractor whose number you used could be held responsible. This exposes both you and the license holder to lawsuits, insurance claims, and disciplinary action from the CSLB.
  • Disciplinary Action: If you ever apply for your own license, a history of working illegally under someone else’s license can delay or prevent approval. The CSLB takes violations seriously and tracks offenders7.

Exceptions and Loopholes: RMOs and RMEs

There are a couple of narrow exceptions to the rule, but these are not loopholes for unlicensed contracting. The Responsible Managing Officer (RMO) and Responsible Managing Employee (RME) designations allow experienced, licensed individuals to qualify a company for a license. However, these arrangements require the RMO or RME to be actively involved in the business’s operations and to accept full legal responsibility for the work performed.

If you’re not officially listed as an RMO or RME-and haven’t gone through the CSLB’s process-you cannot simply “work under” someone else’s license. Even then, the law requires strict compliance and oversight. Anything less is considered illegal.

Real-World Examples and Practical Advice

Let’s look at a practical example. Imagine you’re just starting out and a friend with a valid contractor’s license offers to let you “use” their license for a small remodeling job. The job is worth $8,000. You do the work, the homeowner pays you, and all seems well-until a neighbor files a complaint with the CSLB. An investigation reveals you weren’t licensed. The consequences? You must return all payments, your friend faces disciplinary action, and you could be charged with a crime.

Or consider a general contractor who hires an unlicensed subcontractor, thinking it’s harmless. If caught, the general contractor may have to return all money paid by the client for that portion of the work and could face lawsuits or license suspension.

Actionable Tips:

  • Always Get Licensed: If you plan to perform or supervise construction work over $500, get your own CSLB license. The process may seem daunting, but it’s the only way to work legally and protect your future.
  • Verify Subcontractors: If you’re a general contractor, always verify the licenses of your subcontractors. Don’t take anyone’s word for it-check directly with the CSLB.
  • Don’t “Lend” Your License: If you’re already licensed, never allow someone else to use your license number. The risks are simply too great.
  • Consult Legal Advice: If you’re unsure about a business arrangement, consult a construction attorney or contact the CSLB for guidance.

Working under someone else’s license in California isn’t just a risky shortcut-it’s a legal trap that can derail your career before it begins. The law is clear: every contractor must have their own license for any job over $500, and there are virtually no exceptions. The penalties for violating this rule are steep, ranging from loss of payment to criminal prosecution and license disqualification.

As you prepare for your contractor license exam, remember that professionalism starts with integrity. Get licensed, stay informed, and build your reputation the right way. The effort you invest now will pay off in a safer, more successful contracting career.