Florida Contractor Licenses: Updated Requirements Guide

Florida regulates contractors through a mix of statewide licenses and local credentialing. Most business entities and qualifying agents obtain licenses through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) or other state agencies, while many counties and municipalities still administer local competency cards—especially at the journeyman level.

This guide spotlights several representative licenses and authorities for Florida below; this guide is updated periodically as additional jurisdictions are researched or requested. You will find statewide licenses near the beginning and locally administered credentials grouped by trade in the later sections.

Whether you’re pursuing electrical, plumbing, HVAC, general building, roofing, or a specialty trade, use the state sections for license specifics and the local sections to identify county requirements that may apply before you pull permits or dispatch crews.

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Overview of Florida Contractor Licensing

Florida uses a dual system: statewide licensing for most contractor categories and local credentialing for certain roles (notably journeyman) and for local business registration. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) oversees the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) for general, building, residential, roofing, plumbing, HVAC/air-conditioning, pool, solar, sheet metal, demolition, and specialty structure contractors. The Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board (ECLB) regulates electrical and alarm contractors and limited energy specialties.

Other state entities license specialty activities: the DBPR Asbestos Licensing Unit (asbestos contractors/consultants), the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and delegated Water Management Districts (water well contractors), the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) LP Gas Program (LP gas installers and businesses), and the Division of State Fire Marshal – Bureau of Fire Prevention (fire protection contractors). Local jurisdictions such as Miami-Dade, Hillsborough, and Palm Beach counties continue to issue local journeyman cards and contractor competency credentials alongside state licenses.

In practice, a Florida contractor may need both state licensure and local registration to pull permits in a given city or county. State-level licenses are detailed in the next section. Per-trade sections later in this guide focus on local jurisdictions and journeyman-level credentials where applicable.

Primary Licensing Authority

Multiple Authorities – See research notes

Verified local jurisdictions:

Browse all Florida contractor license practice tests →

State-Level Licenses in Florida

State-level licensing in Florida is administered primarily through DBPR boards and several other state agencies. A state license (or registration) authorizes work statewide, subject to local permitting and business registration. The trades below include commonly used statewide credentials.

Trades with state-level licensing include electrician, plumbing, HVAC/air-conditioning, general/building/residential contractors, roofing, and multiple specialties such as pools, solar, sheet metal, demolition, alarm/low-voltage, fire protection, water wells, LP gas, asbestos, and gas line specialty.

State-Level Electrician Licenses

Certified Electrical Contractor

Regulatory authority: Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board (ECLB), Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/electrical-contractors/

Exam: Pearson VUE; two-part computer-based (Business and Technical/Safety). Open-book. Business: 50 scored questions (2.5 hours); Technical/Safety: 100 scored questions (5 hours). Passing score 75% on each part. See exam information.

Experience: Minimum 3–6 years comprehensive electrical or alarm installation/servicing within the preceding 12 years, including management/supervisory experience per Fla. Admin. Code R. 61G6-5.003.

Education: Training/technical education or supervisory experience meeting Rule 61G6-5.003; portions may be substituted with an electrical engineering degree or equivalent.

Fees: Application $316.25; Examination $78.75; Initial license $0; Renewal $296.

Insurance: Required — minimum $300,000 public liability / $50,000 property damage; plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 11 hours CE including Florida laws and rules, safety, workers’ compensation, business practices, Florida Building Code advanced module, and false alarm prevention if applicable.

Registered Electrical Contractor

Regulatory authority: ECLB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/electrical-contractors/

Exam: Local proctored electrical exam approved by ECLB for the jurisdiction issuing the competency card; state registration does not add a separate state trade exam.

Experience: Hold a current local electrical contractor certificate of competency; experience is set by the local licensing board.

Education: As required by the local jurisdiction for the competency card; no separate statewide education standard.

Fees: Application $151; Initial license $151; Renewal $296.

Insurance: Required — minimum $300,000 public liability / $50,000 property damage; plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 11 hours CE including Florida Building Code advanced module, Florida laws and rules, safety, workers’ compensation, and business practices.

Certified Residential Electrical Specialty Contractor

Regulatory authority: ECLB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/electrical-contractors/faqs/

Exam: Pearson VUE; two-part computer-based (Business and Technical/Safety) focusing on dwelling-unit systems; 75% minimum per part.

Experience: At least 3 years full-time residential electrical experience within the previous 6 years, with at least 1 year in a supervisory role.

Education: Technical electrical training/apprenticeship may be combined with field experience to meet totals.

Fees: Application $316.25; Examination $78.75; Initial license $0; Renewal $296.

Insurance: Required — minimum $300,000 public liability / $50,000 property damage; plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 11 hours CE including residential technical topics, Florida Building Code advanced module, Florida laws and rules, safety, workers’ compensation, and business practices.

Certified Limited Energy Systems Specialty Contractor

Regulatory authority: ECLB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/electrical-contractors/

Exam: Pearson VUE; Limited Energy Systems technical exam (NEC Articles 725, 760, 770, 800, 810) plus Business and Finance; open-book; minimum passing score typically 70–75% depending on part.

Experience: Minimum 3 years full-time in low voltage systems within the prior 6 years, including at least 1 supervisory year.

Education: Acceptable combinations of technical education and field experience per §489.511(2)(a), Fla. Stat.

Fees: Application $135; Examination $270; Initial license $295; Renewal $295.

Insurance: Required — minimum $300,000 public liability / $50,000 property damage; plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE including limited energy technical topics, Florida Building Code advanced module, laws/rules, safety, workers’ compensation, and business practices.

State-Level Plumbing Licenses

Certified Plumbing Contractor

Regulatory authority: Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Business & Finance (CBT at Pearson VUE, 120 questions, 6.5 hours, open-book) plus Plumbing Trade Knowledge (paper-and-pencil, two 4.5-hour sessions in Kissimmee). ~70% minimum per part. See exam details.

Experience: At least 4 years qualifying experience with a minimum of 1 year as foreman/supervisor; accredited college coursework may substitute up to 3 years.

Education: High school or equivalent recommended; construction-related college credits may reduce experience under CILB rules.

Fees: Application $249; Examination $398; Initial license $249; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — minimum $300,000 public liability / $50,000 property damage; plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE including FBC plumbing module, laws/rules, safety, workers’ compensation, business practices, and technical plumbing topics.

Registered Plumbing Contractor

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Local plumbing trade exam approved by the local board; state registration does not add a separate state trade exam.

Experience: Hold a current local plumbing contractor license/certificate of competency; experience is established by the local board.

Education: Satisfy local apprenticeship/trade school or equivalent training used to obtain the local competency card.

Fees: Application $305; Initial license $305; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — minimum $100,000 public liability / $25,000 property damage (typical non–Division I minimums); plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE including FBC plumbing module, workers’ compensation, safety, laws/rules, and business practices.

State-Level HVAC Licenses

Certified Class A Air-Conditioning Contractor

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Pearson VUE; Business & Finance (120 Q, 6.5 hrs) + Class A Trade Knowledge (~130 Q, 7.5 hrs); open-book; 70% minimum each. See checklist: DBPR.

Experience: 4 years HVAC experience with at least 1 year as foreman supervising systems over 25 tons/500,000 BTU; degree/college credit may substitute up to 3 years.

Education: High school/GED recommended; four-year construction-related degree can reduce required field experience to one year.

Fees: Application $245; Examination $135; Initial license $245; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — minimum $300,000 public liability / $50,000 property damage; plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE including HVAC technical topics, FBC advanced module, safety, workers’ compensation, business practices, and laws/rules.

Certified Class B Air-Conditioning Contractor

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Pearson VUE; Business & Finance (120 Q, 6.5 hrs) + Class B Trade Knowledge (~80 Q, 5 hrs); open-book; 70% minimum each. Checklist: DBPR.

Experience: 4 years HVAC work limited to 25 tons/500,000 BTU, including at least 1 year as foreman; college education may substitute part of the experience.

Education: Construction-related degree or credits can satisfy up to 3 years under CILB criteria.

Fees: Application $245; Examination $135; Initial license $245; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — minimum $100,000 public liability / $25,000 property damage; plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE (HVAC technical topics, FBC advanced module, workers’ compensation, safety, business practices, laws/rules).

Registered Air-Conditioning Contractor (Class A or B)

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Local air-conditioning trade exam (and Business/Law as required) at county/municipal level; state registration is based on local exams.

Experience: Hold a current local Class A or B competency card; experience prerequisites are set by the local board.

Education: Local apprenticeship/training as required for the competency card.

Fees: Application $305; Initial license $305; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — minimum $100,000 public liability / $25,000 property damage; plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE including FBC advanced module and standard CILB subjects.

Certified Sheet Metal Contractor

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Pearson VUE; Business & Finance + Sheet Metal Trade Knowledge; open-book; 70% minimum each. Checklist: DBPR.

Experience: 4 years in duct fabrication/installation, balancing, and ventilation systems, including at least 1 year as foreman.

Education: Construction-related degree/credits may substitute up to 3 years per CILB rules.

Fees: Application $245; Examination $135; Initial license $245; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — minimum $100,000 public liability / $25,000 property damage; plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE (sheet metal topics, FBC advanced module, workers’ compensation, safety, business practices, laws/rules).

State-Level General Contractor Licenses

Certified General Contractor

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Pearson VUE three-part: Business & Finance (120 Q, 6.5 hrs), Contract Administration (~60 Q, 4.75 hrs), Project Management (~60 Q, 4.75 hrs); open-book; 70% minimum each. Checklist: DBPR.

Experience: 4 years construction experience with at least 1 year as foreman; Division I applicants typically document multi-story and varied structural systems per CILB rules.

Education: Four-year construction-related degree plus 1 year experience may qualify; other degree/experience combinations accepted under §489.111, Fla. Stat.

Fees: Application $249; Examination $597; Initial license $209; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — minimum $300,000 public liability / $50,000 property damage; plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE including FBC advanced module, workers’ compensation, safety, business practices, laws/rules, and technical construction topics.

Registered General Contractor

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: No separate state construction exam; competency is met through local exams for general/building contractors.

Experience: Provide evidence of satisfying local examination/licensing requirements and a local certificate of competency for jurisdictions where registration is sought.

Education: Determined by the local jurisdiction issuing the competency credential.

Fees: Application $205; Initial license $205; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — minimum $300,000 public liability / $50,000 property damage; plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE per CILB requirements.

Certified Building Contractor

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Pearson VUE Division I exam set (Business & Finance, Contract Administration, Project Management); open-book; 70% minimum each.

Experience: 4 years in building construction up to three stories, including 1 year as foreman.

Education: Degree/college credits may substitute up to 3 years as allowed under §489.111, Fla. Stat.

Fees: Application $249; Examination $295; Initial license $209; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — minimum $300,000 public liability / $50,000 property damage; plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE including FBC advanced module and standard CILB topics.

Certified Residential Contractor

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Pearson VUE Division I exams (Business & Finance, Contract Administration, Project Management); open-book; 70% minimum each.

Experience: 4 years residential construction with at least 1 year as foreman on one- to three-family residences (not more than two stories) and the structural components prescribed by CILB.

Education: Degree/credits may substitute up to 3 years (§489.111, Fla. Stat.).

Fees: Application $245; Examination $295; Initial license $209; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — minimum $300,000 public liability / $50,000 property damage; plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE including FBC residential module and standard topics.

State-Level Roofing Licenses

Certified Roofing Contractor

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Pearson VUE; Business & Finance (120 Q, 6.5 hrs) + Roofing Trade Knowledge (~80–100 Q, ~5 hrs); open-book; ~70% minimum each. Checklist: DBPR.

Experience: At least 4 years verifiable roofing experience with 1 year as foreman/supervisor; experience must cover installation/repair across roof systems and FBC compliance.

Education: Degree/credits may substitute up to 3 years where allowed by CILB rules.

Fees: Application $245; Examination $135; Initial license $245; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — minimum $100,000 public liability / $25,000 property damage; plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE including roofing technical topics (FBC roof assemblies/wind mitigation), safety, workers’ compensation, business practices, and laws/rules.

Registered Roofing Contractor

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Local written roofing exam administered or approved by the county/municipality; state registration requires evidence of exam and standing.

Experience: Hold a local roofing contractor certificate of competency; local board establishes experience criteria.

Education: Local training/experience sufficient to obtain the local credential.

Fees: Application $305; Initial license $305; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — minimum $100,000 public liability / $25,000 property damage; plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE including standard CILB topics.

State-Level Specialty Trade Licenses

Certified Alarm System Contractor I

Regulatory authority: ECLB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/electrical-contractors/

Exam: Pearson VUE; Business + Technical/Safety focused on alarm systems and NFPA 72; 75% minimum each.

Experience: Within the 6 years before application, at least 3 years management experience in alarm contracting with ≥40% in commercial fire alarm systems, or qualifying equivalents under Rule 61G6-5.003.

Education: Combinations of technical education and management/supervisory experience acceptable per §489.511, Fla. Stat.

Fees: Application $316.25; Examination $78.75; Initial license $0; Renewal $296.

Insurance: Required — $300,000 public liability / $50,000 property damage minimums; workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 11 hours CE including alarm technical subjects, FBC advanced module, laws/rules, safety, workers’ compensation, business practices, and false alarm prevention.

Certified Alarm System Contractor II

Regulatory authority: ECLB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/electrical-contractors/

Exam: Pearson VUE; Business + Technical/Safety (non-fire alarm systems); 75% minimum each.

Experience: At least 3 years management/supervisory experience in alarm systems other than fire within the 6 years before application per Rule 61G6-5.003.

Education: Technical alarm training coupled with management experience to meet total requirement.

Fees: Application $316.25; Examination $78.75; Initial license $0; Renewal $296.

Insurance: Required — $300,000 public liability / $50,000 property damage minimums; workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 11 hours CE in standard ECLB topics.

Specialty Structure Contractor

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Pearson VUE; Business & Finance + Specialty Structure Trade Knowledge; open-book; ~70% minimum each.

Experience: 4 years qualifying experience in aluminum/metal/canvas/vinyl/fiberglass structures (e.g., screen enclosures, pool cages, sunrooms, siding, soffit, fascia, gutters, aluminum/vinyl fences), including ≥1 year as foreman.

Education: Degree/credits may substitute a portion per CILB rules.

Fees: Application $245; Examination $135; Initial license $245; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — $100,000 public liability / $25,000 property damage minimums; plus workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE (FBC advanced module and standard CILB topics).

Certified Pool Contractor

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Pearson VUE; Pool/Spa Trade exam + Business & Finance; open-book; ~70% minimum each. Checklist: DBPR.

Experience: 4 years verifiable pool construction experience, including at least 1 supervisory year; substitutions for college/military service allowed.

Education: Construction-related degree/credits may substitute up to 3 years per CILB criteria.

Fees: Application $245; Examination $135; Initial license $245; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — $100,000 public liability / $25,000 property damage minimums; workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE in standard CILB topics.

Swimming Pool/Spa Servicing Contractor (Class C)

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Pearson VUE; Pool Servicing Trade + Business & Finance; open-book; ~70% minimum each. Does not authorize new pool construction or structural work.

Experience: 4 years in pool/spa servicing and repair with ≥1 supervisory year; service-focused experience required.

Education: Board-approved service certification courses may substitute up to 3 years when approved.

Fees: Application $245; Examination $135; Initial license $245; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — $100,000 public liability / $25,000 property damage minimums; workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE in standard CILB topics.

Certified Solar Contractor

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Solar Trade exam + Business & Finance; registration via Professional Testing, Inc.; open-book referencing solar codes and Florida Statutes.

Experience: 4 years of solar installation experience (PV, thermal, pool heating, solar ventilation) including ≥1 supervisory year, documented with affidavits and supporting records.

Education: Construction-related education/solar training may supplement field experience per CILB rules.

Fees: Application $249; Initial license $249; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — at least $100,000 public liability / $25,000 property damage, plus additional $200,000 coverage where specified; workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE in standard CILB topics.

Contact the CILB to confirm current exam vendor arrangements, detailed fees, and any updated insurance minima before applying.

Certified Demolition Contractor

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Pearson VUE; Demolition Trade Knowledge + Business & Finance; open-book; ~70% minimum each.

Experience: 4 years in structural demolition/removal, including ≥1 year as foreman; experience must include safe practices and debris handling.

Education: Degree/credits may substitute a portion under CILB criteria.

Fees: Application $245; Examination $135; Initial license $245; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — $300,000 public liability / $50,000 property damage minimums; workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE in standard CILB topics.

Water Well Contractor License

Regulatory authority: Florida Water Management Districts delegated by DEP — DEP Water Well Licensing

Exam: Written licensure exam administered by the applicant’s Water Management District; passing grade set by DEP rule. A license issued by any District is valid statewide.

Experience: At least 2 years constructing/repairing/abandoning water wells in Florida, verified by letters from contractors/inspectors/vendors and a list of ≥10 wells in the last 5 years.

Education: Minimum 12 hours of approved coursework (≥6 hours directly related to well construction technologies and licensing/permitting statutes and rules).

Fees: Application $150; additional fee details set by the District.

Insurance: Not specified by DEP licensing; contracts or local permits may impose coverage requirements.

Renewal: Biennial; 12 hours CE covering construction practices, licensing/permitting rules, safety, and business practices.

Exam Prep: PDF study guide with 1,500-2,500 questions, complete answer keys, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline; no time or use limits. South Florida Water Well Contractor License Practice Test.

Asbestos Contractor License

Regulatory authority: DBPR Asbestos Licensing Unit — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/asbestos-contractors-and-consultants/

Exam: Department-approved, computer-based exam at Pearson VUE; passing score required.

Experience: Satisfactory work on at least 10 asbestos projects within the last 5 years plus completion of a 5-day contractor/supervisor course and 3-day respiratory protection course.

Education: Department-approved asbestos training covering surveys, abatement supervision, and respiratory protection; financial stability must be shown.

Fees: Application $555; Initial license $555; Renewal $155.

Insurance: Required — typical DPBR asbestos insurance ranges $100,000 to $300,000 public liability/property damage; workers’ compensation as applicable.

Renewal: Biennial; 16 hours CE including contractor/supervisor refresher and respiratory protection updates.

LP Gas Installer License

Regulatory authority: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) — LP Gas Program: LP Gas Licenses

Exam: State LP gas installer examination or qualification process administered/approved by FDACS.

Experience: Competence, qualifications, and trustworthiness as determined by FDACS; experience standards set by rule under Chapter 527, Fla. Stat.

Education: Compliance with FDACS training/qualification criteria.

Fees: Application $300; Initial license $300; Renewal $200 (annual).

Insurance: Surety bond/insurance affidavit or proof per FDACS for LP gas categories.

Renewal: Annual.

Contact FDACS to confirm current exam procedures, detailed insurance/bonding thresholds, and any additional documentation required prior to application.

Fire Protection Contractor (Sprinkler Systems)

Regulatory authority: Bureau of Fire Prevention, Division of State Fire Marshal — Regulatory Licensing

Exam: Pearson VUE; Florida fire protection contractor exam covers NFPA 13/13R/13D, NFPA 25, hydraulics, Florida Fire Prevention Code, and business/law; passing score ~75%.

Experience: At least 4 years fire protection experience or prerequisite contractor license depending on class; document design/installation/maintenance experience for water-based systems.

Education: Approved fire protection training courses and CE as required by the State Fire Marshal.

Fees/Insurance/Renewal: Program-specific; confirm current application fees, insurance minimums, and renewal intervals with the Bureau of Fire Prevention.

Gas Line Specialty Contractor

Regulatory authority: CILB, Florida DBPR — https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

Exam: Pearson VUE; Business & Finance + Gas Line Trade Knowledge; open-book; ~70% minimum each.

Experience: 4 years installing/modifying/testing/repairing natural gas transmission/distribution systems and appurtenances, including ≥1 year as foreman.

Education: College/technical education may substitute part of experience per CILB rules.

Fees: Application $245; Examination $135; Initial license $245; Renewal $209.

Insurance: Required — $100,000 public liability / $25,000 property damage; workers’ compensation or exemption.

Renewal: Biennial; 14 hours CE including gas piping safety/code topics and standard CILB subjects.

Electrician Licenses in Florida

Local jurisdictions in Florida that issue their own electrician licenses are listed below. State-level electrician licenses are covered in the State-Level Licenses section above.

Note: Some licenses in Florida are issued at the city or county level. Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Check with your local authority or contact us with questions.

Journeyman Electrician Certificate of Competency – Hillsborough County (Local Jurisdiction)

Authority: Hillsborough County Development Services – Contractor Licensing — Official page

Exam: County-administered journeyman electrician exam; typical passing 70–75%.

Experience: Completion of a 4-year registered electrical apprenticeship or at least four years of practical electrical experience documented on county forms.

Education: Approved apprenticeship classroom training or equivalent instruction accepted by Hillsborough County.

Scope: Authorizes journeyman-level work only under supervision of a licensed electrical contractor; does not permit independent contracting or permit pulling.

Fees: Application $50; Initial license $170.

Insurance: Not required for journeyman card; supervising contractor carries required insurance.

Renewal: No stated renewal cycle for the journeyman card on the cited page; verify current policy with the County.

Plumbing Licenses in Florida

Local jurisdictions in Florida that issue their own plumbing licenses are listed below.

Note: Some licenses in Florida are issued at the city or county level. Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Check with your local authority or contact us with questions.

Journeyman Plumber Certificate of Competency – Hillsborough County (Local Jurisdiction)

Authority: Hillsborough County Development Services – Contractor Licensing — Official page

Exam: County-authorized journeyman plumber exam; must work under supervision of a licensed plumbing contractor.

Experience: Completion of a 4-year registered plumbing apprenticeship or four years documented practical plumbing experience under a licensed contractor.

Education: Registered apprenticeship classroom training or equivalent coursework approved by Hillsborough County.

Scope: Journeyman-level work under a properly licensed plumbing contractor; no independent contracting or permits.

Fees: Application $50; Initial license $170.

Insurance: Not required for journeyman card; supervising contractor maintains insurance.

Renewal: No stated renewal schedule on the cited page; confirm with the County.

HVAC Licenses in Florida

Florida issues statewide HVAC contractor licenses through the CILB (see State-Level Licenses above). Some counties and cities may also require local business registration or issue mechanical/HVAC journeyman credentials for work performed under a licensed contractor. The list below points to verified local authorities to begin that process.

Local Licensing Requirements

Major Cities with Local Requirements:

Note: Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm with your local building department before applying.

📍 Florida Uses Local Licensing

Some contractor licensing in Florida is handled by individual cities and counties rather than a state board. As a result, application forms, insurance minimums, exams, and renewal cycles can vary from one jurisdiction to another.

What this means for you:

  • Contact the specific city or county where you will perform work to confirm current requirements.
  • Expect to maintain multiple licenses if you work across different municipalities.
  • Insurance certificates may need to name each city/county individually.
  • Renewal cycles and CE requirements vary — track each separately.

To prepare efficiently for any required local competency exams, use code-focused study materials matching the code editions used by your jurisdiction.

General Contractor Licenses in Florida

Florida issues statewide Division I licenses for Certified General, Building, and Residential Contractors through the CILB (see State-Level Licenses above). Many jurisdictions also maintain local contractor registration and may require proof of the state license before permitting. Use the local resource below to verify any additional county-level steps.

Local Licensing Requirements

Major Cities with Local Requirements:

Note: Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm with your local building department before applying.

Roofing Licenses in Florida

Certified and Registered Roofing Contractor licenses are issued at the state level by the CILB (see State-Level Licenses above). Counties and cities may still require local registration to pull permits. Use the local contact below to confirm documents and insurance endorsements needed for roofing permits in that jurisdiction.

Local Licensing Requirements

Major Cities with Local Requirements:

Note: Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm with your local building department before applying.

Specialty Trade Licenses in Florida

Specialty licensing in Florida includes both state credentials (e.g., water well, fire protection, alarm/low-voltage, solar, pool, demolition, LP gas) and local business registration. Always check local permitting offices to determine whether an additional local credential or business registration is required alongside your state license.

Local Licensing Requirements

Major Cities with Local Requirements:

Note: Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm with your local building department before applying.

Application Process

  1. Determine the appropriate state license classification (general, building, residential, roofing, plumbing, air-conditioning/HVAC, pool, solar, specialty, etc.).
  2. Document required experience and education using CILB/ECLB forms and employer affidavits, ensuring at least one supervisory year where required.
  3. Obtain a current credit report (FICO score) from a board-approved credit reporting agency; complete a 14-hour financial responsibility course or provide bond if credit score is below 660 when required.
  4. Submit the examination application and registration fee to Professional Testing, Inc. or DBPR (for electrical and asbestos) and await authorization to test.
  5. Schedule and take required exams (Business and Finance and applicable trade exams) at Pearson VUE test centers or paper-and-pencil plumbing trade events.
  6. Complete electronic fingerprinting with an FDLE-approved Livescan provider and ensure background check results are transmitted to DBPR.
  7. Submit initial licensure application through the DBPR online portal or by mail, including exam score reports, experience affidavits, credit documentation, and legal history.
  8. Obtain and file certificates of general liability and property damage insurance and workers’ compensation coverage or exemption with DBPR or other authorities.
  9. Receive license or registration approval from the appropriate board (CILB, ECLB, Asbestos Licensing Unit, Water Management District, FDACS or State Fire Marshal) and then complete any required local registrations for permits.
  10. Maintain license by completing continuing education, renewing on the biennial or annual schedule and keeping insurance and contact information current.

Timeline: For a new CILB-certified contractor license, typical time from exam decision to license issuance is about 6–12 months, including 2–4 months for exam preparation and testing plus 4–8 weeks for application review and issuance after passing exams.

Reciprocity

Florida has reciprocity with: Louisiana, North Carolina, Mississippi, California, Georgia

Requirements: Certification by reciprocity or endorsement under §489.115(3), Fla. Stat. generally requires holding a valid current license in a reciprocal or substantially equivalent state, having obtained that license by examination, meeting Florida’s experience, financial responsibility and insurance standards, and passing the Florida Business and Finance exam. For some programs, at least 10 years of licensure in good standing in the originating state is required.

Limitations: Reciprocity programs typically waive only the trade portion of the exam and do not waive Florida’s Business & Finance exam or financial responsibility/insurance requirements. Current reciprocity applies primarily to Division I (general, building, residential) licenses; electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing and many specialties generally require full Florida examination and licensure. Local reciprocity for registered contractors is handled by counties.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a contractor license in Florida?

Allow roughly 6–12 months for a new CILB-certified license from exam decision to issuance. This typically includes 2–4 months of preparation and testing plus 4–8 weeks for DBPR application review after you pass required exams.

Can I transfer my license from another state to Florida?

Florida recognizes reciprocity/endorsement with Louisiana, North Carolina, Mississippi, California, and Georgia for certain Division I licenses. You must have obtained your out-of-state license by examination, meet Florida’s experience and financial responsibility/insurance standards, and pass Florida’s Business & Finance exam. Some pathways require 10 years of licensure in good standing.

What happens if I fail the exam?

Retake policies vary by license and exam vendor. Review the current candidate information booklets from DBPR and Pearson VUE for applicable waiting periods, re-registration steps, and fees before rescheduling.

Do I need insurance?

Yes. State contractor licenses carry minimum general liability/property damage requirements that vary by classification (for example, many CILB categories require at least $100,000/$25,000 and Division I often requires $300,000/$50,000). Workers’ compensation or a lawful exemption is also required.

How often do Florida contractor licenses renew?

Most state construction and electrical licenses renew biennially with continuing education. Some programs (such as LP gas through FDACS) renew annually. Always check your board’s renewal cycle and CE specifics.

What if my city has different requirements than what’s shown here?

Local jurisdictions can require additional registration or journeyman credentials before permitting. Use your city or county’s contractor licensing portal to confirm local processes, fees, and documentation, even when you hold a Florida state license.

Where can I find practice tests for Florida exams?

We offer comprehensive PDF practice tests for Florida contractor license exams. Each test typically contains 1,500 to 2,500 code-relevant questions with precise answer keys and reference locators showing exact code sections. Browse Florida contractor practice tests.

Florida · Practice tests

Florida contractor license practice tests

The Florida practice tests we publish today: comprehensive PDF guides, typically 1,500 to 2,500 questions each, with full answer keys and reference locators to the exact code sections. We add new tests regularly, so if your license isn’t listed here, contact us and we’ll build it.

Browse all Florida tests →

Related Official Resources

Official Sources for Further Details:

  1. Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation – Construction Industry Licensing Board
    https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-01
  2. Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation – Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board
    https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/electrical-contractors/
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-01
  3. DBPR Electrical Examinations Information
    https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/examination-information/electrical-examinations/
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-01
  4. DBPR Construction Examinations Information
    https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/examination-information/construction-examinations/
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-01
  5. Florida Statutes Chapter 489 – Contractor Licensing
    https://www.flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2024/489.117
    State Statute | Accessed: 2026-09-01
  6. Florida Statutes Chapter 373.323 – Water Well Contractor Licensing
    https://www.flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2024/0373.323
    State Statute | Accessed: 2026-09-01
  7. Florida DEP – Water Well Contractor Licensing and Permitting
    https://floridadep.gov/water/source-drinking-water/content/water-well-contractor-licensing-and-permitting
    Official Department Site | Accessed: 2026-09-01
  8. Florida DBPR – Asbestos Contractors and Consultants
    https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/asbestos-contractors-and-consultants/
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-01
  9. Florida Statutes Chapter 469 – Asbestos Abatement
    https://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0469/Sections/0469.005.html
    State Statute | Accessed: 2026-09-01
  10. Florida DBPR – Roofing Contractor Checklist (CILB 5-I)
    https://www.myfloridalicense.com/CheckListDetail.asp?SID=&xactCode=1030&clientCode=0603&XACT_DEFN_ID=3022
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-01
  11. Florida Bureau of Fire Prevention – Regulatory Licensing
    https://www.myfloridacfo.com/division/sfm/bfp/regulatory-licensing
    Official Department Site | Accessed: 2026-09-01
  12. Pearson VUE – Florida DBPR Construction Exams
    https://www.pearsonvue.com/us/en/fl/construction.html
    Exam Provider | Accessed: 2026-09-01
  13. Pearson VUE – Florida DBPR Electrical Exams
    https://www.pearsonvue.com/us/en/fl/electrical.html
    Exam Provider | Accessed: 2026-09-01
  14. Florida DBPR – Construction Industry FAQs
    https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/faqs/
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-01
  15. Florida DBPR – Electrical Contractors FAQs
    https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/electrical-contractors/faqs/
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-09-01

Important Disclaimer

Information Currency: This guide reflects licensing information as available in 2026. Licensing requirements are subject to change without notice. Always verify current requirements with official sources.

Official Source: For current information, contact Multiple Authorities – See research notes:

No Legal Advice: This guide provides general information only. Consult with the licensing board or a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.

Local Requirements: Some licensing in Florida is handled at the city or county level. Always verify requirements with your local building department.

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