A22. A “deficiency letter” is the written notice sent to an applicant after a thorough review of his or her application has been conducted. This letter identifies the specific areas of deficiency and provides general guidance on how to address the deficiencies. The letter also provides other licensing options if applicable. For example, if an applicant applies for a General Contractor license and submits only residential projects, staff will recommend that the applicant apply as a residential basic contractor or submit qualifying general contracting projects. Staff is trained to evaluate an application and assist an applicant based on what he or she has submitted. The deficiency letter requests a response within 35 days.