Get A Public Works Contractor Registration Number
Follow the steps below to work on Public Works construction projects in California.
All contractors, subcontractors and sole proprietors must register before bidding on or working on a Public Works project.
You can obtain a Public Works Contractor Registration (PWCR) number by registering for one, two or three years. Your registration must be valid each year by June 30 to prevent penalties.
1. Check if You Need to Register
- You plan to bid on or work on construction, alteration, demolition, installation, or repair work under contract and paid in whole or in part with public funds.
- This includes pre-construction and post-construction activities related to a public works project.
- You want to bid on or work on a construction project that exceeds $25,000 or a maintenance project that exceeds $15,000.
For a full description of what projects qualify as public works, refer to Labor Code section 1720.
2. Register on the Public Works Portal
- Use this link each year to register and obtain your Public Works Contractor Registration (PWCR) number:
services.dir.ca.gov/pw
3. Visit the Public Works Support Center
- Use the Public Works Support Center for assistance with the registration process. The Support Center includes online guides, videos and workshops.
- To receive the latest news, subscribe to email updates from the Public Works Newsline.
- Contact the Public Works Unit.
For more information and to find exact legal definitions and language please see the Public Works Chapter of the California Labor Code.
April 2026