At a Glance: Florida Contractor License
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Licensing Board | Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) |
| License Types |
|
| License Threshold | $200,000 for state license requirement (below = local registration) |
| Application Fee | $249–$349 for state certification |
| Exam Required | ✅ Yes |
| Exam Provider | Prometric |
| Exam Cost | $100–$225 |
| Experience Required | 4 years experience (at least 1 as supervisor) |
| Insurance Required | General Liability ($300,000 per occurrence); Workers' Comp required |
| License Renewal | Biennial; $209–$309 |
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Florida Contractor License
- Choose between Certified (statewide) or Registered (local) license
- Document 4 years experience; 1 must be supervisory
- Pass CILB exam via Prometric (Business & Law + Trade)
- Obtain liability insurance and workers' comp
- Submit application through DBPR portal with fees
- License issued in 30–60 days
Exam Requirements
Provider: Prometric
Cost: $100–$225
Topics covered: Florida Building Code, Business & Finance, Trade Knowledge
Most state contractor exams test two main areas: Business & Law (contracts, lien law, workers' comp, licensing regulations) and Trade Knowledge (construction practices, building codes, safety). Prepare for both sections — even experienced contractors struggle with the Business & Law portion without dedicated study.
Study Resources
- PSI Candidate Handbook (available on PSI website — free, covers exactly what's on the exam)
- ICC Study Guides for code-based exams
- Contractor's Business & Law Study Guide by Craftsman Book Company
- Online prep courses from Contractor Exam Prep and similar providers
Insurance & Bonding Requirements
General Liability ($300,000 per occurrence); Workers' Comp required
Beyond what Florida requires, consider these coverage types for complete protection:
- General Liability: Protects against third-party bodily injury and property damage claims
- Workers' Compensation: Required if you have employees; protects against job-site injury claims
- Commercial Auto: Your personal auto policy won't cover your work truck
- Inland Marine (Tools & Equipment): Covers tool theft from job site or vehicle
Reciprocity
Florida has the following reciprocity agreements with other states:
- Louisiana
- North Carolina (limited)
Important: Reciprocity agreements change over time. Always contact the Florida licensing board directly to confirm current reciprocity status before assuming your out-of-state license qualifies for expedited licensure.
Important Notes for Florida
Florida's CGC license works statewide. A Registered license works only within the jurisdiction that issued it. Most major commercial work requires CGC.
Official Resources
- Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) — Official Website
- PSI Exams — Schedule Your Contractor Exam
- Contractor Insurance Guide
- Contractor Bonding Guide
- How to Start a Construction Business
Always verify requirements directly with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Requirements, fees, and exam procedures change frequently — this guide is updated periodically but may not reflect the most recent changes.