In September of 2014, California Bill SB 1159 was signed into law. This law prohibits, except as specified, any entity within the CA Department of Consumer Affairs from denying licensure to an applicant based on his/her immigration status.
This means that, no later than January 1st, 2016, the entity that governs California contractor state licenses (the Contractors State License Board, or “CSLB”) will accept all applicants who choose to use an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) in lieu of a social security number. However, the CSLB has stated that they plan to implement these changes earlier, within 2015 (it is within their discretion to decide exactly when their official start date will begin, up until January 1, 2016).
Most importantly, you may begin submitting applications with your individual tax ID number now, regardless of when CSLB implements the new law. There is a very good chance that your application will be accepted (but please note that it is not the responsibility of our school to ensure acceptance of your credentials).
Until the new law has been officially enacted by the CSLB, it may require additional documentation, or temporarily deny your application. But don’t worry, if this occurs, we will place your program on hold until you’re ready to take it (for up to 5 years from the date of your enrollment).
