Key takeaways
Pass rates of each Spanish exam
The board published these numbers in its 2025 report. “Before” and “after” refer to the button that shows each question in English.
| Exam | Taken in 2025 | Passed before the button | Passed after |
|---|---|---|---|
| Law and Business | 6,853 | 26% | 28% |
| B General Building | 1,869 | 16% | 26% |
| C-8 Concrete | 321 | 19% | 35% |
| C-9 Drywall | 223 | 14% | 35% |
| C-15 Flooring | 211 | 21% | 36% |
| C-27 Landscaping | 447 | 16% | 45% |
| C-33 Painting | 556 | 32% | 61% |
| C-36 Plumbing | 355 | 11% | 27% |
| C-39 Roofing | 536 | 10% | 28% |
| C-54 Ceramic and Mosaic Tile | 200 | 20% | 37% |
Source: CSLB, 2025 Accomplishments and Activities Report (Testing) [1]
What the exam’s English button is
The Spanish exam has a button to see the question in English. Since November 1, 2024, Spanish exams have a button to see the original English version of each question; all ten Spanish exams had it by March 1, 2025.[1] On Law and Business the rate rose little: from 26% to 28%[1].
How it compares with the English exam
The board has not published an English rate for 2025. In June 2024 its licensing chief said that on “the English version” 71% of first-time test takers pass[2], without naming the exam. That number is from another year and counts only first attempts, so it does not compare directly with the 2025 numbers.
What the board’s numbers do not say
- The report does not define the “before” and “after” periods.
- The board counts each exam taken, so a retake counts again[1]. These are exams taken, not people.
- The report does not separate first attempts from retakes.
How to prepare for the exam in Spanish
Practice in Spanish with the English question one tap away, as on the exam. See where you stand with the free check and read what is on the exam.
The board in numbers, 2025
PSI gave 59,027 exams for the board in 2025.[1] The board received 39,654 license applications in 2025, 1,454 more than in 2024.[1] The board maintains 48 exam programs in English and 10 in Spanish.[1]
Frequently asked questions
How many pass the California contractor exam in Spanish?
On the Spanish Law and Business exam 28% passed[1], by the board’s 2025 report. On the Spanish trade exams it ranges from 26% (General Building) to 61% (Painting)[1].
Does the board explain why so few pass?
It publishes no reason. In June 2024 the board's licensing chief said the study guides were translated but the references were still in English, "an obstacle for test takers when studying".[2]
Is the Spanish exam easier than the English one?
No. The content, format and exam plan of the English and Spanish exams are the same. While reading a question in Spanish, the candidate can click a button to the right of the screen to see the question in English.[3]
Sources
- CSLB, 2025 Accomplishments and Activities Report, 26; 27; 26-27; 25 (read November 13, 2026)
- CSLB Board Meeting Minutes, June 13-14, 2024 (item 7, Spanish Exam Translation Update) (read November 13, 2026)
- CSLB, Preparing for the Exam, 13P-104/0326, 2 (read November 13, 2026)
Reviewed November 13, 2026. Published by ContratistaListo. The sources above are the authority. This is a summary in our own words: check the source before you act on it.