Beginning May 1, public works contractors who are registered with the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) for the current fiscal year (ending June 30, 2016) may renew their registrations for the next fiscal year (starting July 1, 2016) using DIR’s online public works contractor registration system. Registered contractors who fail to renew by July 1 but continue working on public works after that date will be subject to late fees and potential penalties.
The online registration system was launched nearly two years ago and helps law-abiding contractors compete on a level playing field when public works contracts are awarded.
Contractors must be registered with DIR before bidding, being awarded or performing work on public works projects in California.
Using any Internet-connected computer, public works contractors can:
- Register for the first time
- Renew an active registration
- Reactivate a prior registration
- Securely pay the non-refundable $300 registration/renewal fee (and penalties if applicable)
The registration process is finished upon processing of payment. If paying by credit card, the registration process can be completed within 24 hours.
The early renewal option is only available for public works contractors who are currently registered with DIR.
Contractors who are not currently registered should carefully consider when to register. Any contractor who fails to register before bidding for a public works project or being awarded a public works project may be subject to a $2,000 penalty. Contractors who plan to bid or work on public works prior to July 1 may complete the registration process, including payment of the $300 fee, to register for the remainder of the current fiscal year, which expires on June 30, 2016. Once registered, contractors may then renew their registration for the following fiscal year (beginning July 1, 2016), which will also require payment of the $300 renewal fee.
New features on DIR’s online registration system allow contractors to print out proof of registration and verify the status of their renewal or application on the database of qualified public works contractors. A user guide with instructions is posted online.