What Are The General Contractor License Requirements in Florida?

If you’ve decided to work as a general contractor in Florida, you’ve chosen a lucrative path. With requirements and regulations varying from state to state, it’s easy to get confused and overwhelmed. We’ve broken down everything you need to know about how to get your general contractor’s license in Florida. 

Who issues a general contractor license in Florida?

The Florida Construction Licensing Board of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) is responsible for administering general contractor licenses in Florida. 

Do you need a contractor’s license in Florida?

The DBPR requires any business or individual who is conducting work planned to become a finished part of a structure in Florida to obtain a license, only if the total cost of one or more contracts on the project exceeds $500.

What are the different general contractor license types in Florida? 

There are two classifications of contractor licenses. 

• Certified General Contractor License: A certified license is valid throughout the state, allowing contractors to work anywhere in the state. 
• Registered General Contractor License: A registered license means contractors can work only within specific local jurisdictions.

How to get your general contractor’s license in Florida step-by-step

1. Meet the basic requirements for a general contractor license in Florida

For both license classifications, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Undergo a background check, including fingerprinting. 
• Secure general liability and property damage insurance in the amounts determined by the licensing board.
• Secure worker’s compensation insurance or be granted an exemption within 30 days of receiving your license. See the list of recommended credit reporting agencies provided by the state. 

2. Apply for the Florida general contractor’s license exam

To apply for a certified or registered contractor’s license in Florida, you must download and complete the application for the Florida State Construction Examination.

3. Take the exam

To meet the certified general contractor license requirements in Florida, applicants must pass the Florida State Construction Examination administered by Professional Testing before applying for a license. Applicants must pass all three parts, which cover: 

1. Project management (paper-and-pencil exam taken at test center)
2. Contract administration (paper-and-pencil exam taken at test center)
3. Business and finance (computer-based exam taken through Pearson VUE)

Parts 1 and 2 may be taken in Orlando, Miami or Tallahassee, and you must select your first and second choice when applying. These exams take place in February, April, June, August, October and December. Applicants must send the completed application and required fees at least 30 days before the examination date. 

If you pass the exam, you must download and fill out the application for either an individual or qualified business.

To meet the registered general contractor license requirements in Florida, in lieu of taking an exam, applicants may present a certificate of competency issued by the local building authority in the jurisdiction in which they wish to work. If you pass the exam, or if you have a certificate of competency, download and complete the application packet for either an individual or a qualifying business.

Examination fees for the Florida State Construction Examination include:

• Registration fee: $135, which may be paid by credit card
• Exam site administration fee: $80, which may be paid by credit card
• Pearson VUE examination fee: $80; call 888-204-6230 for payment options

Payments can also be made by check, money order or cashier’s check. You must send the completed application form and fees to:

Professional Testing, Inc.

State of Florida Construction Program

7680 Universal Blvd. #300

Orlando, FL 32819

4. Meet the basic Florida general contractor license experience requirements, submit credit score and additional fees

To apply for a certified contractor’s license in Florida, you provide the following:

1. An approved FICO credit score that demonstrates financial stability and responsibility
2. Proof that you have four years of experience or a combination of related college study and experience. 
3. If all exam parts were passed prior to January 1, 2009, submit an application fee of $409

To apply for a registered contractor’s license in Florida, you must provide the following: 

1. An approved FICO credit score that demonstrates financial stability and responsibility
2. A copy of the certificate of competency issued by the local jurisdiction, if you decide to use this instead of a written exam.
3. If all exam parts were passed prior to January 1, 2009, submit an application fee of $249
4. If applying between May 1 of an odd year and August 31 of an even year, submit an application fee of $309
5. If applying between September 1 of an even year and April 30 of an odd year, submit an application fee of $209

Once you’ve completed the application, send it to the following address with the supporting documentation and the required fee:

State of Florida

Department of Business and Professional Regulation

1940 N. Monroe St.

Tallahassee, FL 32399-0783

5. Register your business license with the state of Florida

If you are a small business, you must register your business through the Florida Department of Revenue. Corporations, nonprofits, LLCs and partnerships are required to register through the Florida Division of Corporations.

6. Provide Tax Identification Numbers and Registration

Florida requires all businesses to register for one or more tax-specific identification numbers, licenses or permits, and to pay income tax, sales and use tax, and unemployment insurance tax. For information, see this guide or contact the Florida Department of Revenue.

7. Meet Workers’ Compensation Insurance Requirements and Obtain Forms

If you plan to hire employees, you will be required to obtain workers’ compensation insurance coverage through a commercial carrier, on a self-insured basis or through the Florida workers’ compensation insurance system.

How much does licensing cost in Florida?

At minimum, it will cost ~$500-700 to become a licensed general contractor in Florida.

Tips for passing the Florida general contractor licensing exam

• Plan your visit to a testing center ahead of time so you know where to go and aren’t rushed 
• Find an exam study guide to complete practice test questions and familiarize yourself with the material covered on the test
• Take an online practice test or a class to prepare
• Set aside some time each day for studying 

Penalties for unlicensed contractors in Florida

Practicing without a general contractor license in Florida may result in 12 months of probation, up to one year in jail, and a $1,000 fine

Leveraging your license on Houzz

Now that you know the requirements to get a general contractor’s license in Florida, it’s time to start thinking about how you can promote your license to potential clients. Everyone who’s anyone knows the value of a blue checkmark on social media. That’s what the green Verified License Badge is for businesses on Houzz Pro. With one glance, this Badge helps you:

• Let homeowners know that your business is licensed by state industry experts.
• Stand out from the competition while homeowners consider who to hire
• Add credibility to your company name, providing peace of mind to future clients

Here are the steps you can take to add a verified license to your Houzz profile. If you haven’t created a free profile on Houzz, sign up today and get ready to make a bigger impact with your business’ online presence.