California requires a state-level solar installer license. The licensing authority is State Contractors Board / Electrical Board. The median salary is $65,784 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
California requires a solar installer to hold a state license. Install, maintain, and repair photovoltaic solar energy systems on residential and commercial buildings. Licensing is administered by the State Contractors Board / Electrical Board.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | NABCEP certification or equivalent training + electrical experience |
| Experience Details | NABCEP certification or equivalent training + electrical experience |
California requires passing the California Solar Installer Certification Exam (NABCEP) with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $100.
| Exam Name | California Solar Installer Certification Exam (NABCEP) |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | Solar Installer Certification Exam (NABCEP) |
| Application Fee | $100 |
Getting licensed as a solar installer in California takes 24 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
The total cost includes an exam application fee of $100 and renewal fees of $100 every 2 years. Continuing education of 8 hours is required per renewal cycle.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $100 |
| License Renewal | $100 every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 8 hours |
Solar Installers in California earn a median salary of $65,784, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in California |
| National average | $47,670 |
Yes — California requires a state-level solar installer license. Install, maintain, and repair photovoltaic solar energy systems on residential and commercial buildings.
The required exam is the California Solar Installer Certification Exam (NABCEP). You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $100.
The median annual salary for solar installers in California is $65,784. The national median is $47,670.
California requires 8 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.
The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 24 months including experience requirements.