Florida Contractor License Requirements
To get a Florida contractors license you must: be 18 years old; pass all parts of the required exam; exceed or meet the required education/experience factors; ensure all applicable fees and costs are paid. If your credit score is below 660, you’ll need a contractor license bond to prove your financial responsibility. Florida contractor licenses are valid for two years. The date by which you need to renew depends on the license category.
Ways to Get a Contractor License Without Experience
Fill out your contractor license application. Here are six ways to get a contractor license without experience: Partner with a responsible managing officer; Get a grandfathered contractor license; Get a waiver from the licensing board; Create a company with a licensed contractor; Gain experience; Take training courses. It typically takes 30 to 45 days to process a Florida contractor license application.
Florida General Contractor Exam Review Course
The 48-hour Florida Contractor Exam Review course covers all material students require to get ready for the General Contractor exam.
Penalties for Unlicensed Contracting in Florida
In Florida, unlicensed contracting is generally charged as a first degree misdemeanor, with penalties of up to 1 year in jail, or probation, and a $1,000 fine. It’s illegal to hire an unlicensed contractor in Florida. A certified contractor passed the state licensing examination.
Steps to Become a Contractor in Florida
To become a contractor in Florida: Get a state-certified or registered license; Decide on the type of license; Access and complete the proper application; Pass the exam; Fulfill requirements and obtain documents; Obtain your bond; Submit your application.
Florida General Contractor License Requirements
Here’s a guide on how to be on the fast track to becoming a general contractor in Florida. Florida General Contractor License Requirements. All general contractor’s licenses are under the oversight of the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board. These government officials review and approve applicants to ensure they meet all the state requirements to perform the duties and responsibilities of general contractors in Florida.
Obtaining a Contractor License in Florida
Do you need a contractor license in Florida? The answer is yes, in some circumstances.
Reciprocity – Certified General Contractor (CILB 32) – apply for a general contractor license in Florida, if you are a licensed general contractor in another state and you have met certain reciprocity requirements.
Certification of Registered Contractor (Grandfathering) as an Individual – Active (CILB 29) – apply for a general contractor license as an individual, if you were previously a registered contractor in Florida. Registered contractors were eliminated in July 2023, but existing registered contractors can apply for a grandfather license.
Licensing Exams and Requirements
To obtain a Certified General Contractors license, the candidate must pass three separate exams: Business and Finance: This is a 120-question exam that covers Florida laws and rules, general accounting principles and contracts. You have 6.5 hours to complete this exam.
Cost of General Contractor License in Florida
How much does a general contractor License in Florida cost? You can expect to pay at least $410 – $1,050, depending on your license type.
Steps to Obtain a Certified General Contractor License
The first step to becoming a certified general contractor in Florida is to ensure you meet all the requirements. You must be at least 18 years old and have at least four years of experience as a journeyman or supervisor in the building industry. Additionally, you must pass a criminal background check and have no felony convictions within the past five years. You will also need to complete an initial licensure application form and submit it with supporting documents such as proof of experience and education.
Conclusion
Becoming a fully licensed contractor in Florida is an exciting and rewarding journey. You have the freedom to set your own schedule and get to do something you love every day. And what’s more rewarding than helping your clients achieve their dream renovations? We hope this guide helps you establish your own contracting service and enjoy years of success to come.