How much does a general contractor bond cost?

GC bond premiums run 1%–3% of the bond amount per year for most qualified contractors. California’s $25,000 CSLB bond typically costs $100–$500; Washington’s $12,000 GC bond runs $100–$250; Oregon’s $20,000 CCB bond is usually $150–$400.

What bond amount does my state require?

Amounts are state-specific: California CSLB is $25,000 (Business & Professions Code §7071.6), Washington is $12K/$6K (RCW 18.27.040), Arizona uses tiered amounts ($5K–$50K) by license classification. Florida and Texas have no statewide GC bond — licensing is local.

Do GCs need performance and payment bonds too?

License bonds are separate from contract bonds. Your GC license bond keeps your license active. Performance and payment bonds are posted per-project — FAR 28.102-1 requires both on federal construction contracts over $150,000.

Last reviewed: April 23, 2026|Next review due: July 22, 2026|Reflects current General contractor bond calculator requirements

✓ 2026 Requirements Verified

Rates 1% – 3% · Instant approval under $25K

General Contractor Bond Cost Calculator

State GC license bond premium estimator. Most qualified contractors pay 1%–3% of the bond amount per year.

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GC Bond Amounts by State

State

Bond Amount

Licensing Authority

California

$25,000

CSLB · B&P Code §7071.6

Washington

$12,000 (GC) / $6,000 (Specialty)

L&I · RCW 18.27.040

Oregon

$20,000

CCB · ORS 701.068

Arizona

$5,000–$50,000 (by tier)

ROC license classifications

North Carolina

$0 (limited) / up to $500K (unlimited)

NCLBGC tier-based

Nevada

$1,000–$500,000 (board-set)

NSCB per application

Alabama

$10,000+ (GC & HBLB)

ALBGC / HBLB / HACR

Texas

No statewide GC license

Local/county only

Florida

No state GC bond

County-level (DBPR certifies)

Colorado

No state GC bond

Municipal only

Amounts shown are representative; always verify current requirements with your state licensing board before buying a bond.

Related Resources

General Contractor Bonds

Contractor License Bond Calculator

Construction Bond Calculator

Performance & Payment Bond Calculator

GC Bond Requirements Guide

Bid Bond Calculator

Reviewed by Nick Thoroughman, Editorial Director

Surety review by Eric Drummond, Surety Specialist

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