The Florida Contractor license Application is handled at the state level by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), primarily through boards such as the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) and the Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board (ECLB).
You should also check with your local building department for any county or city registration requirements tied to permits.
Whether you’re a general, building, or residential contractor—or a licensed trade professional (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, pool/spa, specialty)—obtaining the correct state license is essential to operate legally. Most businesses must designate a qualifying agent who holds the license, and DBPR enforces compliance with state regulations.
The licensing process is designed to ensure contractors meet standards to work safely, ethically, and professionally. Completing the required documentation—your application for initial licensure, exam registration, fingerprints/background check, proof of experience, financial responsibility/credit report, insurance (general liability and workers’ compensation), and fees—is a critical part of the process.
If you’re considering becoming a licensed contractor in Florida, start by determining whether you need a Certified (statewide practice) or Registered (local jurisdiction) license.
You’ll need to meet eligibility criteria and complete several key steps: designate a qualifying agent (if applicable), pass the Business & Finance exam and your trade exam (or qualify via reciprocity where available), submit fingerprints, and provide proof of insurance and financial stability.
Let’s walk through what you need to navigate this process effectively—so you’re well-prepared for each stage and ready to work compliantly across Florida.
Understanding Contractor Licenses in Florida
When you’re considering a contractor license in Florida, it’s essential to understand the two main types available: certified and registered licenses. A certified Florida contractor license allows you to work statewide, giving you the freedom to take on a variety of projects.
On the other hand, a registered license restricts you to specific local jurisdictions, which can be a great fit if you prefer to focus on your community.
Both license types require you to pass exams administered by the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) and prove your financial stability. You’ll need to demonstrate at least four years of experience in the construction field, along with necessary application requirements like proof of insurance and financial responsibility.
The licensing process can be rigorous, but it’s designed to ensure you’re equipped for success in Florida’s competitive construction industry. Embracing this journey connects you with a community of skilled professionals dedicated to quality and safety.
Types of Contractor Licenses Available
Florida licenses contractors at the state level through the DBPR, with oversight by the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) and, for electrical categories, the Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board (ECLB). Choosing the right path—Certified or Registered—determines where you can legally work and how you’ll be examined.
Quick Comparison
| License Type | Where You Can Work | Exams | Local Permitting | Oversight |
| Certified (Statewide) | Anywhere in Florida | State Business & Finance + Trade exams | Must still meet local permit rules | DBPR / CILB (most trades) or ECLB (electrical) |
| Registered (Local) | Only in specific city/county(ies) where you hold local competency | Local competency per jurisdiction; then register with DBPR | Follow that jurisdiction’s permit rules | DBPR + Local Authority |
Specialty & Trade Categories (Examples)
- CILB (construction trades): General, Building, Residential, Roofing, Air Conditioning/HVAC, Plumbing, Pool/Spa, Solar, Underground Utility, and other specialties.
- ECLB (electrical trades): Electrical Contractors (EC/ER), Alarm/System specialties, etc.
How to Choose
- Pick Certified if you plan to work across multiple counties or scale statewide.
- Pick Registered if you operate in one locality and already meet that city/county’s competency requirements.
Remember: Regardless of license type, you must maintain required insurance, meet financial responsibility standards, and comply with all local permitting rules.
Eligibility Requirements for Applicants
To qualify for a Florida contractor license, you’ll need to meet these baseline requirements—designed to ensure you’re ready for the responsibility of licensed work:
- Age & ID: Be 18+ with a valid SSN or ITIN.
- Experience/Education: Show 4 years of relevant construction experience or an equivalent combination with a related degree.
- Financial Responsibility: Provide a personal credit report. If your FICO is below 660, a contractor license bond (or approved alternative) is required.
- Exams: Pass the Florida Contractors License Exam—Business & Finance plus your trade/category exam.
- Background Check: Complete electronic fingerprints (LiveScan) and the required disclosures.
Tip: Some categories have additional, category-specific criteria. Double-check the DBPR checklist for your license type before you apply.
Completing the License Application Form
Florida Contractor License Application: Make It Clean, Complete, and Fast
Completing the Florida contractor license (DBPR/CILB) application takes precision. Start by organizing all required documents—financial responsibility/credit, general liability insurance, workers’ comp or exemption (if applicable), and entity/ID details. Fill out every field clearly and completely (typed or in dark ink if submitting by mail), and double-check that names and addresses match across all documents. Don’t forget: electronic fingerprints (LiveScan) are required for all applicants.
Quick Overview: Fees & Core Requirements
| License Type | Application Fees (Subject to change) | Additional Requirements |
| Certified Contractor | $145–$245 | Proof of qualification |
| Registered Contractor | $205–$305 | Proof of competency |
| All Applicants | — | Electronic fingerprints |
| All Applicants | — | Financial responsibility (credit/FRS) |
| All Applicants | — | Liability insurance (GL; WC if employing staff) |
Submission Tips
- Match everything: Business name, qualifier name, and addresses must be identical across forms, COIs, and ID.
- Insurance first: Have your GL (and WC/exemption) in place before you submit to avoid immediate holds.
- Fingerprints early: Schedule LiveScan as soon as you file—DBPR can’t finish review without it.
- Proof of experience/education: Include detailed work history and any exam results, if required for your category.
Once your packet is complete, submit the application and fees to the appropriate DBPR board. With a clean, well-documented file, you’re one step closer to your Florida contractor license.
Passing the Licensing Examination
After you’ve submitted your application, the next step is passing the licensing examination. This is your chance to demonstrate your knowledge and secure your contractor license. The exam consists of two sections: Business & Finance and Trade Knowledge, and you’ll need to achieve a passing score of at least 70% on both.
To prepare effectively, consider these tips:
– Enroll in exam preparation courses for tailored insights.
– Familiarize yourself with the 120 Business & Finance questions.
– Review the 90 Trade Knowledge questions thoroughly.
– Manage your time wisely; you have 6.5 hours for Business & Finance and 4.5 hours for Trade Knowledge.
Remember, if you hold a four-year degree in building construction with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, you might be exempt from the Trade Knowledge exam.
With the right preparation, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining your license!
Documentation Needed for Application
What to Gather for a Florida Contractor License (DBPR/CILB)
Florida licenses most contractors at the state level through the DBPR and the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). Your package needs to prove identity, experience, financial responsibility, insurance, and background clearance. My Florida License
Financial Responsibility & Stability
- Credit report with a FICO 660+ from a nationally recognized agency, including public-records checks (local/state/federal).
- If below 660, complete the Board-approved 14-hour Financial Responsibility course and include proof.
- Clear any liens/judgments/bankruptcies or include satisfaction documents. My Florida License
- CILB rule reference for the 660 threshold and the 14-hour course alternative. Legal Information InstituteMy Florida License
Insurance Certificates
- General Liability (GL):
- General & Building Contractors
- All other categories
Provide an ACORD or insurer letter showing active limits. - My Florida License
- General & Building Contractors
- Workers’ Comp (WC): Show coverage (or a valid exemption) and verify subs carry WC before they start work.
- My Florida License
- FLDFS
Need compliant GL, WC, and proof fast?
Affordable Contractors Insurance issues same-day COIs and helps Florida contractors meet DBPR/CILB limits without back-and-forth.
Fingerprints & Background Check
Submit electronic fingerprints via an FDLE-registered LiveScan provider right after filing your application (DBPR receives results electronically). My Florida License
Qualification & Experience Proof
- Meet the experience/education mix for your category (e.g., four years total or a qualifying combination; methods are listed in the application).
- Include employment history and project details matching the category you’re seeking. My Florida LicenseMyFloridaLicense
Entity & Address Documentation
- Business formation docs (e.g., Articles, FEIN), plus matching home/business addresses and any name-change records.
- Answer background questions fully and attach explanations where required. My Florida License
Quick-Glance Checklist (Copy/Paste-Ready)
| Document Type | What DBPR/CILB Looks For |
| Financial Responsibility | Credit report with FICO ≥ 660; if <660, 14-hour course proof; lien/judgment satisfactions. My Florida LicenseLegal Information Institute |
| General Liability Insurance | $300k PL / $50k PD (General/Building) or $100k PL / $25k PD (others). Active proof of coverage. My Florida License |
| Workers’ Comp Insurance | Active WC or approved exemption; confirm subs are covered before work begins. My Florida LicenseFLDFS |
| Fingerprints | FDLE LiveScan submission tied to your application. My Florida License |
| Experience & Exams | Experience logs, employer/qualifier details; meet category-specific pathways. My Florida LicenseMyFloridaLicense |
| Entity/ID/Addresses | Formation docs, FEIN, photo ID, matching addresses; background explanations if applicable. My Florida License |
Pro Tips
- Match names/addresses across every document to avoid holds. My Florida License
- Line up GL + WC before you submit—missing or incorrect limits are a top cause of delays. My Florida License
- Use the DBPR Application Center to check status and download the latest forms. MyFloridaLicense
Need compliant GL, WC, and proof fast? ACI issues same-day COIs and helps Florida contractors meet DBPR/CILB limits without back-and-forth. Get covered and keep your application moving: https://affordablecontractorsinsurance.com/
Florida DBPR Boards (State-Level Licensing)
- Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB): https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/
- Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board (ECLB): https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/electrical-contractors/
Apply / Checklists / Forms
- DBPR Application Center – Construction (CILB): https://www.myfloridalicense.com/intentions2.asp?SID=&boardid=06&chBoard=true
- DBPR Application Center – Electrical (ECLB): https://www.myfloridalicense.com/intentions2.asp?SID=&boardid=08&chBoard=true
- Certified General Contractor – Options/Forms (CILB 1, 5-A, 6-A, 7-A, 10, 26, 29, 32): https://www.myfloridalicense.com/intentions2.asp?SID=&boardid=06&chBoard=true&professionid=0605
- Registered Contractor (Individual) – Checklist: https://www.myfloridalicense.com/CheckListDetail.asp?SID=&XACT_DEFN_ID=3446&clientCode=0620&xactCode=1030
Financial Responsibility & Stability
- DBPR/CILB Financial Responsibility & Stability Requirements (PDF):
https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/pro/cilb/documents/Financial%20Responsibility_and_Stability_Requirements_for_Contractor_Applicants.pdf
Insurance Requirements
- DBPR/CILB Application (shows GL minimums: $300k/$50k for General/Building; $100k/$25k others) (PDF):
https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/pro/cilb/documents/CILB2_Registered_Contractor_Individual.pdf
Fingerprinting / Background
- DBPR Fingerprinting Overview: https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/fingerprinting/
- DBPR Fingerprinting FAQ (PDF): https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/servop/testing/documents/finger_faq.pdf
- Example Checklist Note re: FDLE Livescan: https://www.myfloridalicense.com/CheckListDetail.asp?SID=&XACT_DEFN_ID=18432&clientCode=0606&xactCode=1047
Exams & Scheduling
- DBPR Construction Examinations (overview + CIBs): https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/examination-information/construction-examinations/
- CILB Candidate Information Booklet (PDF): https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/servop/testing/documents/const_cib.pdf
- Pearson VUE – Florida DBPR Construction Scheduling: https://www.pearsonvue.com/us/en/fl/construction.html
- Florida Exam: http://www.floridaexam.com/
Insurance & Compliance Support
- Affordable Contractors Insurance (ACI): https://affordablecontractorsinsurance.com/
Financial Responsibility and Insurance Requirements
Obtaining a Florida contractor license requires you to demonstrate financial responsibility and meet specific insurance requirements. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
– You must provide a credit score of at least 660; if it’s lower, you’ll need a contractor license bond.
– Division I Contractors require a bond of $20,000, while Division II Contractors need $10,000.
– Proof of liability insurance is mandatory, with minimum coverage amounts set by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
– If you plan to hire employees, you’ll need workers’ compensation insurance or must obtain an exemption within 30 days post-licensing.
– Completing the Financial Responsibility Course can reduce your bond amount by 50%, offering a great financial incentive.
The Importance of Contractor License Bonds
Contractor license bonds play a crucial role in the licensing process for Florida contractors, especially for those with a FICO credit score below 660. These bonds provide financial security to clients, ensuring you’re financially responsible and compliant with licensing requirements.
When you secure a bond, you show your commitment to fulfilling your contractual obligations and adhering to state laws, which fosters consumer protection and trust in your work.
Bonding companies will assess your financial history and business practices, ensuring only qualified individuals obtain licensure. By prioritizing contractor license bonds, you’re not just meeting legal obligations; you’re also building a solid reputation in the contracting community.
Submitting Your Application and Fees
Submitting your application for a Florida contractor license is a straightforward process that requires attention to detail.
To ensure everything goes smoothly, follow these steps:
– Complete the application form in ink, making sure all information is clear.
– Prepare to pay application fees, which potentially range from $149 to $309 based on your license type.
– Make your payment via personal or cashier’s check to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
– Include supporting documents such as proof of financial responsibility and liability insurance.
– Mail your completed application and fees to 2601 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, FL 32399.
What to Expect After Application Submission
Once you’ve submitted your application for a Florida contractor license, you can expect a processing period that typically spans 30 to 90 days.
During this time, keep an eye on your email and physical mail for updates from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). They’ll notify you regarding your application’s approval, denial, or any additional information needed to move forward.
If your application is denied, don’t worry. You’ll receive specific reasons for the denial and guidance on how to appeal or reapply.
It’s essential to stay engaged and proactive during this period, as any requested documentation or clarification can speed up the processing time.
Once you receive approval, you’ll finally get your contractor license, enabling you to operate legally in your chosen field.
Conclusion
Getting a Florida contractor license is manageable when you break it down: choose the right license type (Certified vs. Registered), assemble a clean packet (financial responsibility, GL/WC, bond if needed), submit your application, complete LiveScan fingerprints, and track status.
Use the DBPR portal to monitor progress and respond quickly to any deficiency notices. During the typical 30–90 day review window, keep your insurance active and documents consistent—small mismatches cause the biggest delays.
Need Florida-ready General Liability, Workers’ Comp, or a contractor bond so your application sails through? ACI packages everything you need and issues COIs fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Who licenses contractors in Florida?
A: The Florida DBPR licenses contractors at the state level through the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) and the Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board (ECLB). You must still follow any local permitting/registration rules with your city or county.
2) What’s the difference between a Certified and a Registered license?
A: Certified licenses allow you to work statewide after passing state exams. Registered licenses limit you to specific local jurisdictions where you hold local competency and then register with DBPR.
3) Which license should I choose—Certified or Registered?
A: Choose Certified if you plan to work across multiple counties or scale statewide. Choose Registered if you’ll operate mainly in one jurisdiction and already meet that locality’s requirements.
4) Which trades are covered?
A: CILB covers General, Building, Residential, Roofing, HVAC/AC, Plumbing, Pool/Spa, Solar, Underground Utility, and specialty categories. ECLB covers electrical and alarm/system specialties.
5) Who can be the “qualifying agent”?
A: A qualifying agent is the licensed individual who takes responsibility for a business’s contracting operations. Most companies must designate one to legally contract for work.
6) What are the baseline eligibility requirements?
A: Be 18+ with SSN/ITIN, show 4 years of relevant experience (or approved education/experience combo), pass required exams, demonstrate financial responsibility, provide insurance, and complete fingerprinting/background checks.
7) What exams are required?
A: Most categories require Business & Finance and a Trade Knowledge exam. You must pass both (typically 70%+). Durations/content are detailed in DBPR’s Candidate Information Booklet.
8) Can any exam be waived?
A: If you hold a 4-year degree in building construction with a 3.0+ GPA, you may qualify for a Trade Knowledge exam exemption (Business & Finance still required).
9) What documents do I need for the application?
A: Expect: application form and fees, credit report/financial responsibility, GL insurance, workers’ comp or exemption, experience/education proof, entity/ID docs, and LiveScan fingerprints.
10) What are the insurance minimums?
A: General & Building contractors typically need $300,000 public liability and $50,000 property damage. Most other categories: $100,000 liability and $25,000 property damage. Workers’ comp is required if you have employees (or file an eligible exemption).
11) What if my credit score is below 660?
A: You’ll generally need a contractor license bond (Division I: $20,000; Division II: $10,000). Completing the Board-approved 14-hour Financial Responsibility course can cut the bond amount by 50%.
12) How do fingerprints and background checks work?
A: Submit electronic fingerprints via an FDLE-approved LiveScan vendor. DBPR receives results electronically; unresolved legal/financial issues can delay or deny licensure.
13) How much are the application fees?
A: Typical ranges: Certified $145–$245; Registered $205–$305, plus exam fees and any local costs. Check your specific application for the exact total.
14) How long does the process take?
A: Plan on 30–90 days from submission to decision, depending on completeness, exam timing, fingerprints, and DBPR review. Respond quickly to any deficiency notices.
15) Do I still need to register locally if I’m Certified?
A: You can work statewide with a Certified license, but you must still pull permits and comply with local building department rules (and any required local registrations for permitting).
16) What are common mistakes that delay approval?
A: Mismatched names/addresses across forms and COIs, missing GL/WC proof, incomplete experience affidavits, late fingerprints, and leaving exam/eligibility sections blank.
17) How do I submit the application?
A: Complete the DBPR form (typed or dark ink if mailing), attach all supporting documents, pay fees, and schedule LiveScan. Keep copies of everything and track status in the DBPR Application Center.
18) What happens after approval?
A: You’ll receive your license and can begin contracting in your approved category/territory. Keep insurance active, comply with local permits, and meet renewal/continuing education requirements each cycle.
19) Can an out-of-state contractor work in Florida?
A: Yes—via Certified licensure or an approved reciprocity/endorsement pathway (where available) plus Florida’s insurance/financial standards. You must still follow local permitting rules.
20) Can ACI help me with insurance and bonds?
A: Yes. Affordable Contractors Insurance (ACI) packages General Liability, Workers’ Comp, and contractor license bonds, and issues same-day COIs tailored to DBPR/CILB specs—so your file isn’t held up for formatting.