California appliance repair license lookup: how to check and get a license
California appliance repair license lookup: who issues appliance repair technician licenses (Bureau of Household Goods and Services (Department of Consumer Affairs)), how to check one online, the license types, and 796 appliance repair and maintenance businesses by county.
Do appliance repair shops need a license in California?
| Who licenses them | Bureau of Household Goods and Services (Department of Consumer Affairs) |
|---|---|
| License types | Appliance Service Dealer, Electronic Service Dealer, Combination Service Dealer |
| When a license is required | State registration required for anyone repairing or servicing major home appliances (refrigerators, ranges, washers, dryers, dishwashers, room air conditioners, etc.) or home electronics for pay; no dollar threshold. A written estimate covering parts and labor is required before repairs, and the dealer can't exceed it without your consent. |
This is a registration with no exam or experience requirement, not a competency license. Each business location registers separately, and the registration number must appear on invoices; ask for the written estimate and any diagnosis fee in writing first.
How do you look up an appliance repair technician's license in California?
- Ask the appliance repair technician for the license number and the exact business name on the license.
- Open the California appliance repair license lookup run by Bureau of Household Goods and Services (Department of Consumer Affairs).
- Search by license number first. A name search can return several people or companies with similar names.
- Check that the status is active or current, that the license type covers your job, and that the name matches the company on your contract.
- If something doesn't match, ask the appliance repair technician about it before you sign or pay a deposit, or contact Bureau of Household Goods and Services (Department of Consumer Affairs).
What appliance repair licenses does California issue?
- Appliance Service Dealer
- Electronic Service Dealer
- Combination Service Dealer
How do you get a appliance repair license in California?
Licenses are issued by the Bureau of Household Goods and Services (Department of Consumer Affairs). Requirements such as experience, exams, insurance and fees change, so read the current rules on the official Bureau of Household Goods and Services (Department of Consumer Affairs) source before you apply. Already licensed? List your business on Expert Helper to get matched with customers.
Which California city is the job in?
How many appliance repair shops are there in California?
The Census Bureau counted 796 appliance repair and maintenance businesses with employees in California in 2023. The counties with the most:
| Los Angeles County | 262 |
|---|---|
| San Diego County | 123 |
| Orange County | 74 |
| Riverside County | 41 |
| Sacramento County | 38 |
| Santa Clara County | 36 |
| San Bernardino County | 25 |
| Alameda County | 25 |
What do California homes mean for appliance repair work?
The median home in California was built in 1976, 44% of households rent and 65% of homes are single-family houses. 62% of homes heat with utility gas and 29% with electricity.
How do you choose an appliance repair technician in California?
- Ask what the diagnostic or trip fee is and whether it's credited toward the repair.
- Get the repair quote in writing before work starts, with parts and labor listed.
- Ask whether they use original manufacturer parts and how long the repair is guaranteed.
- Check whether the appliance is still under the manufacturer's or retailer's warranty before you pay for a repair.
- For gas appliances, make sure the technician is qualified to work on gas connections in your area.
Appliance Repair in other states
Sources: California licensing agency (linked above); US Census Bureau County Business Patterns 2023 and ACS 2023 5-year estimates.