C-22 Asbestos Abatement Contractor license in California

Updated November 1, 2026 · Official name from CSLB's classification list

• 320licenses hold C-22
• 98.7%Clear (CA addresses)
• 0.3%workers' comp exempt (all: 49.6%)
• 100%contractor's bond on file
• 18.4 yrsmedian time licensed
• 92.7%businesses, not sole owners

C-22 contractors contain, encapsulate, remove and dispose of asbestos-containing construction materials, following the rules of Cal/OSHA's Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH). CSLB won't issue the class unless the contractor is registered with DOSH or has an application in process. If registration lapses, the CSLB record shows the class as not valid until it is restored.

A one-person C-22 shop still has to insure for workers' comp; the no-employee exemption doesn't apply to this class. For asbestos work done as part of another trade, see the ASB certification.

Typical work under C-22

• Removing popcorn ceilings that test positive for asbestos
• Pipe and duct insulation removal
• Old vinyl floor tile and mastic removal
• Encapsulating material that stays in place
• Containment, air monitoring and proper disposal

Work that needs a different license

• Rebuilding walls or ceilings after removal: B General Building or C-9 Drywall
• Cleanup at a listed hazardous-waste site: a license with the HAZ certification
• Demolishing the structure once it is clear: C-21 Building Moving/Demolition

Tips before hiring

• Check the "Additional Status" area of the license. "C22 Class not valid at this time" means DOSH registration is missing, so don't use that contractor for asbestos work.
• Confirm a workers' comp insurer is listed for the C-22. The no-employee exemption isn't available to this class.
• Hire the testing lab separately from the removal company if you can, so the same firm isn't grading its own work.
• Ask for the disposal paperwork at the end of the job.

Where C-22 contractors are

The cities with the most C-22 license holders in CSLB's current file:

1. Anaheim: 15
2. Fresno: 9
3. Riverside: 8
4. San Diego: 8
5. Hayward: 7
6. Oakland: 7
7. Santa Fe Springs: 7
8. Corona: 5
9. Orange: 5
10. San Francisco: 5

How to verify a C-22 license

1. Search the business or license number here and confirm C-22 is listed on the profile.
2. Check the same number on CSLB's Instant License Check.
3. Read our full guide to checking a contractor license.

Related license types

• ASB Asbestos Certification
• C-21 Building Moving/Demolition Contractor
• HAZ Hazardous Substance Removal Certification
• C-2 Insulation and Acoustical Contractor

Source: CSLB public data · Updated November 1, 2026 Status can change at any time. Verify on CSLB's Instant License Check.

More license types: ← C-21 Building Moving/Demolition Contractor · C-23 Ornamental Metal Contractor →