Florida Contractor Licenses: Updated Requirements Guide

Florida licenses contractors through statewide boards and agencies as well as through local jurisdictions for certain credentials. If you plan to build, remodel, install systems, or service equipment in Florida, expect to interact with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and other state authorities, plus cities and counties for some journeyman-level or local competency cards.

This guide explains Florida’s dual structure: state-level licenses appear first, followed by local requirements by trade where applicable. We highlight several representative licenses and authorities for Florida below; this guide is updated periodically as additional jurisdictions are requested by readers and industry partners.

Use the Quick Navigation to jump to your trade. Each section summarizes who regulates the license, core requirements, exams, insurance, and renewal expectations—along with direct links to official sources for current details.

Quick Navigation

Overview of Florida Contractor Licensing

Florida contractor licensing is primarily overseen by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Within DBPR, the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) regulates Division I (General, Building, Residential) and Division II specialties (Plumbing, Air-Conditioning, Mechanical, Roofing, Pools, Solar, Sheet Metal, Underground Utility), and the Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board (ECLB) regulates electrical and alarm contractors. Additional state agencies regulate certain specialties: the State Fire Marshal licenses Fire Protection System Contractors; the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Water Management Districts license Water Well Contractors; and DBPR’s Bureau of Elevator Safety regulates elevator companies, technicians, and inspectors.

Florida also uses local licensing for some credentials—most notably, journeyman-level licenses in trades such as electrical, plumbing, and mechanical/HVAC in counties like Miami-Dade and Broward. In practice, contractors typically hold a state credential to contract for work statewide, while certain employees or individuals may hold local journeyman cards that authorize supervised trade work within that jurisdiction.

This guide organizes Florida licensing into two layers. The next section presents state-level contractor licenses issued or recognized by state authorities. Later sections summarize local, trade-specific requirements and link to jurisdictions where local journeyman or competency cards are issued. Always confirm details on the official websites before applying or bidding.

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 licenses are issued or regulated by Florida agencies such as DBPR’s CILB and ECLB, the State Fire Marshal, the DEP/Water Management Districts, and the DBPR Bureau of Elevator Safety. Certified contractor licenses typically allow work statewide; registered contractor licenses are tied to local jurisdictions but are recorded with the state.

Below are the principal state-level licenses by trade, including scope, experience and exam expectations, insurance, and renewal. Candidates should review the linked official sources for current dates, fees, forms, and exam scheduling.

State-Level Electrician Licenses

Certified Electrical Contractor

Regulator: Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board (ECLB), Florida DBPR — Program page

Experience/Education: Common pathway is at least 4 years of electrical trade experience with supervisory components; some college construction education may substitute per ECLB rules. Minimum age 18.

Exam: Two-part Pearson VUE CBT, open-book: Business (approx. 50 questions/2.5 hours) and Technical/Safety (approx. 100 questions/5 hours). Passing score commonly 75% per part; verify via ECLB.

Fees: State application fees generally range about $149–$309 depending on type/timing. Business exam fee is paid to Pearson VUE; registration/administration via Professional Testing, Inc. per DBPR booklets.

Insurance: General liability and property damage coverage (commonly at least $100,000 liability); workers’ compensation or exemption also required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial; 11 hours of CE covering technical code, Florida laws and rules, business practices, workers’ compensation, workplace safety, and Florida Building Code advanced module.

Source: DBPR – Electrical Contractors | DBPR – Electrical Examinations

Registered Electrical Contractor

Regulator: Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board (ECLB), Florida DBPR — Program page

Experience/Education: Requires a local certificate of competency or occupational license from a county/municipality based on a local trade exam; minimum age 18. State registration documents that local credential with ECLB.

Exam: Based on the local trade exam already passed; no separate statewide technical retest for registration.

Fees: DBPR sets registered contractor fees (often near $209 plus business fees). Local exam fees vary by jurisdiction.

Insurance: Liability insurance similar to Division II contractors (e.g., $100,000 liability and $25,000 property damage typical); workers’ compensation or exemption required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial (registered renew August 31 of odd-numbered years); 11 hours CE across technical, laws/rules, business, workers’ compensation, workplace safety, and FBC module.

Source: DBPR – ECLB FAQs

Certified Alarm System Contractor I

Regulator: ECLB, Florida DBPR — Program page

Experience/Education: Multiple years of verifiable alarm/low-voltage experience or qualifying education/experience per Florida Statutes Chapter 489 Part II; minimum age 18.

Exam: Pearson VUE CBT, open-book; separate Business and Technical/Safety sections (typical passing score 75% per section). Content includes NEC/NFPA codes, design/installation, Florida statutes/rules, and business practices.

Fees: DBPR application fee generally $149–$309; registration via Professional Testing, Inc.; CBT fees paid to Pearson VUE.

Insurance: General liability/property damage and workers’ compensation or exemption; alarm contractors must meet false alarm prevention requirements.

Renewal/CE: Biennial; 7 hours CE, including 2 hours on false alarm prevention plus required law, business, safety, FBC module, and technical topics.

Source: Florida Statutes §489.505

Certified Specialty Electrical Contractor

Regulator: ECLB, Florida DBPR — Program page

Experience/Education: Several years in the specialty field (e.g., limited energy, fire alarm, PV) with trade-specific training; minimum age 18.

Exam: Pearson VUE CBT, open-book; Technical/Safety and Business parts (typical passing 75%).

Fees: Application fees are typically around $200; exam registration via Professional Testing, Inc. plus Pearson VUE fees.

Insurance: Liability insurance and workers’ compensation/exemption consistent with electrical contractor requirements.

Renewal/CE: Biennial; 7 hours CE covering laws/rules, business, safety, FBC advanced module, and technical content.

Source: DBPR – Electrical Examinations

State-Level Plumbing Licenses

Plumbing Contractor (Certified – CF)

Regulator: Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), Florida DBPR — Board page

Experience/Education: At least 4 years of plumbing experience, including 1 year as foreman/supervisor, or an allowed combination with college coursework/military service. Minimum age 18.

Exam: Two required parts: Business & Finance (Pearson VUE CBT, open-book) and Plumbing Trade Knowledge (paper-and-pencil, administered in Florida sessions). Typical passing 70–75% per part.

Fees: Initial certification fee typically $149 or $249 depending on cycle; exam fees include Professional Testing, Inc. registration, Pearson VUE CBT fee, and state administration components.

Insurance: Common Division II minimums around $100,000 public liability and $25,000 property damage; workers’ comp or exemption required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial (certified renew August 31 of even years); 14 hours CE including FBC advanced module, laws/rules, business, safety, workers’ comp, and technical plumbing instruction.

Source: DBPR – Construction Examinations

Plumbing Contractor (Registered – RF)

Regulator: CILB, Florida DBPR — Board page

Experience/Education: Requires a local certificate of competency or local contractor license with experience set by the local board; minimum age 18.

Exam: Based on locally administered plumbing trade exam; state registration verifies local competency and does not re-test trade knowledge.

Fees: DBPR application/renewal fees commonly near $209 plus business fees; local exam fees vary.

Insurance: Liability/property damage minimums similar to certified contractors; workers’ compensation or exemption required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial (registered renew August 31 of odd years); 14 hours CE including FBC module, laws/rules, business, safety, workers’ comp, and technical plumbing topics.

Source: DBPR – CILB

State-Level HVAC Licenses

Class A Air-Conditioning Contractor (Certified)

Regulator: CILB, Florida DBPR — Board page

Experience/Education: About 4 years combined education/experience with at least 1 year as foreman; degree pathways can substitute for up to 3 years. Minimum age 18.

Exam: Business & Finance (approx. 6.5-hour CBT, open-book) and Class A Trade Knowledge CBT at Pearson VUE after Professional Testing, Inc. registration; typical passing 70–75%.

Fees: Application about $145–$245 depending on cycle; combined exam fees typically a few hundred dollars.

Insurance: At least $100,000 general liability and $25,000 property damage; workers’ compensation or exemption required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial (even years); 14 hours CE including FBC advanced module, laws/rules, business, safety, workers’ comp, and HVAC technical topics.

Source: DBPR – Exam Application Packet

Class B Air-Conditioning Contractor (Certified)

Regulator: CILB, Florida DBPR — Board page

Experience/Education: Similar to Class A, with 4 years combined education/experience and at least 1 year supervisory experience; minimum age 18.

Exam: Business & Finance CBT and Class B Trade Knowledge CBT via Pearson VUE; typical passing 70–75%.

Fees: Application generally $145–$245 depending on cycle; exam fees via Professional Testing and Pearson VUE.

Insurance: Liability and property damage minimums consistent with CILB guidance (often $100,000/$25,000); workers’ comp or exemption required.

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

Source: DBPR – Candidate Information Booklet

Mechanical Contractor (Certified)

Regulator: CILB, Florida DBPR — Board page

Experience/Education: Typically 4 years mechanical/HVAC experience with 1 year as foreman/supervisor or an approved combination with college credits; minimum age 18.

Exam: Business & Finance CBT and Mechanical Trade Knowledge CBT via Pearson VUE; passing commonly about 70%+ per part.

Fees: Application comparable to other Division II categories (~$145–$245); CBT fees via Professional Testing and Pearson VUE.

Insurance: Liability/property damage minimums around $100,000/$25,000; workers’ comp or exemption required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial; 14 hours CE across FBC module, laws/rules, business, safety, workers’ comp, and mechanical/HVAC technical instruction.

Source: DBPR – Candidate Information Booklet

State-Level General Contractor Licenses

Certified General Contractor

Regulator: CILB, Florida DBPR — Board page

Experience/Education: Minimum 4 years construction experience with at least 1 year as supervisor/foreman; engineering/architecture/building construction degrees may substitute for up to 3 years. Minimum age 18.

Exam: Three-part CBT at Pearson VUE: Business & Finance (approx. 120 questions/6.5 hours), Contract Administration (60 questions/4.5 hours), Project Management (60 questions/4.5 hours). Passing typically 70%+ per part.

Fees: Application about $149–$249 depending on cycle; examination involves Professional Testing registration and Pearson VUE fees.

Insurance: At least $300,000 general liability and $50,000 property damage; workers’ compensation or exemption required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial (even years); 14 hours CE including FBC advanced module, laws/rules, business, safety, workers’ comp, and construction topics.

Source: DBPR – Exam Application Packet

Certified Building Contractor

Regulator: CILB, Florida DBPR — Board page

Experience/Education: Similar 4-year requirement with 1 year supervisory experience; education may substitute for part of experience. Minimum age 18.

Exam: Same three-part CBT structure as General Contractor, tailored to building scope.

Fees: Application typically $149–$249; exam fees handled via Professional Testing and Pearson VUE.

Insurance: At least $100,000 general liability and $25,000 property damage typical for non-general Division I categories; workers’ comp or exemption required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial; 14 hours CE with FBC advanced module, laws/rules, business, safety, and related topics.

Source: DBPR – Candidate Information Booklet

Certified Residential Contractor

Regulator: CILB, Florida DBPR — Board page

Experience/Education: At least 4 years residential construction experience, including 1 year as foreman/supervisor; education/military pathways can substitute per rule. Minimum age 18.

Exam: Business & Finance, Contract Administration, and Project Management CBT exams at Pearson VUE.

Fees: Application about $149–$249; exam fees via Professional Testing and Pearson VUE.

Insurance: At least $100,000 liability and $25,000 property damage; workers’ comp or exemption required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial; 14 hours CE with FBC advanced module and category-relevant topics.

Source: DBPR – Exam Application Packet

State-Level Roofing Licenses

Roofing Contractor (Certified – CC)

Regulator: CILB, Florida DBPR — Board page

Experience/Education: Generally 4 years roofing experience (or 3 years college plus 1 year foreman) with at least 1 year supervisory experience; minimum age 18.

Exam: Business & Finance CBT and Roofing Trade Knowledge CBT at Pearson VUE; open-book; passing typically 70%+ per part.

Fees: Application roughly $145–$245 depending on cycle; exam fees via Professional Testing and Pearson VUE.

Insurance: At least $100,000 liability and $25,000 property damage; workers’ comp or exemption required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial (even years); 14 hours CE including specialized roofing and wind mitigation topics, laws/rules, business, safety, and workers’ comp.

Source: DBPR – CILB

Roofing Contractor (Registered – RC)

Regulator: CILB, Florida DBPR — Board page

Experience/Education: Requires a local roofing competency card/license and experience as defined by the local board; minimum age 18.

Exam: Based on passing a local trade exam; state RC registration does not require a separate statewide trade exam.

Fees: Application/renewal fees set by DBPR (often near $205–$305 depending on timing); local exam fees vary.

Insurance: Liability/property damage coverage similar to certified roofing; workers’ comp or exemption required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial (odd years); 14 hours CE including roofing technical topics, laws/rules, business, safety, workers’ comp, and wind mitigation.

Source: DBPR – CILB

State-Level Specialty Licenses

Commercial Pool/Spa Contractor (Class A CPC)

Regulator: CILB, Florida DBPR

Experience/Education: Typically 4 years construction experience with substantial commercial pool/spa experience; minimum age 18.

Exam: Business & Finance CBT and Commercial Pool/Spa Trade Knowledge CBT (open-book) via Pearson VUE; typical passing near 70–75%.

Fees: Application fee consistent with Division II (~$145–$245); exam fees via Professional Testing and Pearson VUE.

Insurance: Liability/property coverage meeting Division II minimums; workers’ comp or exemption required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial; 14 hours CE including pool construction/safety, water treatment, FBC/health regulations, laws/rules, business, safety, workers’ comp.

Source: Florida Swimming Pool Association – Licensing Overview

Residential Pool/Spa Contractor (Class B CPC)

Regulator: CILB, Florida DBPR

Experience/Education: Four years residential pool experience, minimum 1 year supervisory; degree/credits may offset part of experience.

Exam: Business & Finance and Residential Pool/Spa Trade Knowledge CBT via Pearson VUE.

Fees: Division II application (~$145–$245); exam fees via Professional Testing and Pearson VUE.

Insurance: Division II minimum liability/property; workers’ comp or exemption required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial; 14 hours CE covering residential pool standards, FBC, safety, laws/rules, business, workers’ comp.

Source: Sarasota County DOH – Pool Contractor Licensing Information

Swimming Pool/Spa Servicing Contractor (Class C CPC)

Regulator: CILB, Florida DBPR

Experience/Education: Four years servicing/repair/water treatment experience (1 year foreman); education/military credits may substitute in part.

Exam: Business & Finance and Pool/Spa Servicing Trade Knowledge CBT via Pearson VUE; passing commonly around 70–75%.

Fees: Application similar to other Division II (~$145–$245); CBT fees via Professional Testing and Pearson VUE.

Insurance: Division II-level public liability/property damage; workers’ comp or exemption required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial; 14 hours CE including equipment repair, water treatment/chemistry, FBC/health codes, laws/rules, business, safety, workers’ comp.

Source: Florida Swimming Pool Association – Licensing Overview

Solar Contractor (Certified)

Regulator: CILB, Florida DBPR

Experience/Education: Around 4 years installing/repairing solar (thermal and/or PV) or equivalent education/experience; minimum age 18.

Exam: Business & Finance and Solar Trade Knowledge CBT at Pearson VUE.

Fees: Application similar to Division II (~$145–$245); exam fees via Professional Testing and Pearson VUE.

Insurance: Division II liability/property coverage; workers’ comp or exemption required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial; 14 hours CE covering PV/thermal technologies, electrical/structural integration, FBC/Electrical Code, laws/rules, business, safety, workers’ comp.

Source: DBPR – Exam Application Packet

Sheet Metal Contractor (Certified)

Regulator: CILB, Florida DBPR

Experience/Education: Generally 4 years sheet metal fabrication/installation with 1 year foreman; education may offset part of experience.

Exam: Business & Finance and Sheet Metal Trade Knowledge CBT via Pearson VUE.

Fees: Similar to Division II (~$145–$245) plus exam fees via Professional Testing and Pearson VUE.

Insurance: Division II minimums; workers’ comp or exemption required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial; 14 hours CE including sheet metal/duct standards, FBC/Mechanical Codes, laws/rules, business, safety, workers’ comp.

Source: DBPR – Exam Application Packet

Underground Utility and Excavation Contractor (Certified)

Regulator: CILB, Florida DBPR

Experience/Education: Approximately 4 years underground utility/excavation work or equivalent combinations; minimum age 18.

Exam: Business & Finance and Underground Utility Trade Knowledge CBT via Pearson VUE.

Fees: Division II application (~$145–$245) and exam fees via Professional Testing and Pearson VUE.

Insurance: Liability appropriate to excavation/utility work; workers’ comp or exemption required.

Renewal/CE: Biennial; 14 hours CE including trenching/excavation safety, FBC module, laws/rules, business, safety, workers’ comp.

Source: DBPR – Exam Application Packet

Fire Protection System Contractor I–V

Regulator: Regulatory Licensing Section, Bureau of Fire Prevention, Division of State Fire Marshal — Program page

  • Contractor I: Water-based and chemical systems; 4+ years experience or qualifying education/experience.
  • Contractor II: Water-based systems; 4+ years experience with installation/layout per statute.
  • Contractor III: Chemical systems; 4+ years experience with system installation/layout.
  • Contractor IV: One- and two-family dwelling sprinklers (NFPA 13D); requires Certified Plumbing Contractor license plus approved 40-hour training.
  • Contractor V: Underground fire protection piping; requires specific Chapter 489 credential or 4 years qualifying experience.

Exam: State Fire Marshal–administered written examination(s) under §633.318, Florida Statutes; passing scores and retest rules per Division.

Fees/Insurance/Renewal: Statutory application and exam fees; insurance as required by §633.318; biennial renewal with CE per State Fire Marshal standards.

Sources: Florida Statutes §633.318 | State Fire Marshal – Regulatory Licensing

Water Well Contractor License

Regulator: Florida DEP and the Water Management Districts — Program overview

Experience/Education: At least 2 years experience in well construction/repair/abandonment with documentation of at least 10 wells in the past 5 years; at least 12 hours approved coursework (6+ hours on construction practices and rules). Minimum age 18.

Exam: District-administered written exam; minimum passing score commonly 70% (confirm with your district’s application). Example: Northwest Florida WMD Contractor Package.

Fees: Typical application fee around $150 depending on the district; exam fee may be included or separate by district.

Insurance: Liability coverage appropriate for well construction as required by the Water Management District; verify locally.

Renewal/CE: Biennial; 12 CE hours covering construction practices, DEP/district rules, and groundwater protection.

Sources: DEP – Water Well Licensing | NWF WMD – Contractor Package

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.

Elevator Certificate of Competency (Inspectors/Contractors) and Certified Elevator Technician

Regulator: Bureau of Elevator Safety, Florida DBPR — Program page

Experience/Education: Several years of vertical conveyance construction/maintenance/repair experience; inspectors typically follow ASME QEI-1 standards; mechanics may qualify via apprenticeship or Division exam.

Exam: Division-approved written exams or national credentials (e.g., QEI) as specified by DBPR; details set by the Bureau of Elevator Safety.

Fees/Insurance/Renewal: Initial licensure costs (e.g., ~$50 for some credentials) and renewals per DBPR schedule; companies must maintain required liability insurance; annual renewal and 8 hours CE common for certain credentials.

Sources: DBPR – Elevator Safety | Open MyFloridaBusiness – Elevator Licensing

Electrician Licenses in Florida

Local jurisdictions in Florida that issue their own electrician licenses are listed below. State-level electrician contractor licenses (Certified/Registered ECs and alarm/specialty credentials) are covered in the State-Level Licenses section above.

Note: Journeyman-level credentials are commonly issued by counties/municipalities. Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Confirm local exam, documentation, and renewal policies before applying.

Miami-Dade County Journeyman Electrician Certificate of Competency (Local Jurisdiction)

Authority: Miami-Dade County Contractor Licensing, Regulatory and Economic Resources Department — Licensing page

Experience/Education: Minimum 3 years proven electrical trade experience, or an equivalent combination with up to one-half credited for education. Minimum age 18.

Exam: Proctored local journeyman exam; minimum passing score 75%. Content covers installations, code compliance, and safety as set by Miami-Dade.

Fees/Insurance/Renewal: Application and exam fees set by Miami-Dade; journeymen typically work under a licensed contractor, and insurance rests with the contractor. Renewal and CE are per county rules.

Source: Miami-Dade – Electrical Licensing

Plumbing Licenses in Florida

Local jurisdictions in Florida that issue their own plumbing journeyman credentials are listed below. State-level plumbing contractor licenses (Certified/Registered CF/RF) are covered in the State-Level Licenses section above.

Note: Journeyman licensing is set locally. Confirm eligibility, documentation, and exam format with the county or city where you plan to work.

Broward County Journeyman Plumber License (Local Jurisdiction)

Authority: Broward County Building Code Division – Contractor Licensing — Journeyman Application

Experience/Education: At least 4 years of practical plumbing experience documented via notarized affidavits and W‑2s from licensed employers; education may substitute for a portion per local rules. Minimum age 18.

Exam: County-approved journeyman plumbing exam; minimum passing grade 75%.

Fees/Insurance/Renewal: Application fee $115 (USD). Journeymen work under a licensed contractor; insurance obligations rest with the contractor. Renewal/CE per Broward County rules.

Source: Broward County – Journeyman Application

HVAC Licenses in Florida

Florida licenses HVAC contractors at the state level (Class A, Class B, and Mechanical – see the State-Level Licenses section). Some counties and municipalities also issue journeyman mechanical/HVAC credentials or require local business registration. EPA Section 608 certification remains a federal requirement for anyone who handles refrigerants.

Local Licensing Requirements

Major Cities with Local Requirements:

  • Miami-Dade County Contractor Licensing, Regulatory and Economic Resources Department: Jurisdiction-administered competency and licensing programs; verify whether mechanical/HVAC journeyman or local registration applies, along with insurance and CE requirements. Registration information: https://www.miamidade.gov/licenses/electrical.asp
  • Broward County Building Code Division – Contractor Licensing: County-level contractor/journeyman credentialing; confirm mechanical/HVAC classifications, documentation, and exam criteria directly with the division. Registration information: https://www.broward.org/Building/Forms/Documents/Journeyman.pdf

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 local credentials if you work across different municipalities.
  • Insurance certificates may need to reference each city/county as required.
  • Renewal cycles and CE requirements vary — track each separately.

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

General Contractor Licenses in Florida

Florida’s General, Building, and Residential contractor licenses are issued at the state level by the CILB (see the State-Level Licenses section). Local jurisdictions may require separate business tax receipts, local registrations, or project-specific permits in addition to your state credential.

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

Florida roofing contractor credentials (Certified CC and Registered RC) are regulated at the state level by the CILB (see above). Some jurisdictions may impose local registration or permitting steps for roofing projects.

Local Licensing Requirements

Major Cities with Local Requirements:

  • Miami-Dade County Contractor Licensing, Regulatory and Economic Resources Department: Check for local registration expectations, insurance filings, and any local competency requirements that supplement your state roofing license. Registration information: https://www.miamidade.gov/licenses/electrical.asp
  • Broward County Building Code Division – Contractor Licensing: Confirm county-level contractor registration and project permitting procedures applicable to roofing work. Registration information: https://www.broward.org/Building/Forms/Documents/Journeyman.pdf

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

Specialty Trade Licenses in Florida

Many specialty trades—such as pools/spas, solar, sheet metal, underground utility, water wells, fire protection, and elevator work—are regulated at the state level (see the State-Level Licenses section). Local governments may also require separate registrations, permits, or competency cards for certain roles or scopes.

Local Licensing Requirements

Major Cities with Local Requirements:

  • Miami-Dade County Contractor Licensing, Regulatory and Economic Resources Department: Confirm whether local registration and competency apply to your specialty scope (e.g., low-voltage, limited energy, or service-only work) and align with insurance and CE requirements. Registration information: https://www.miamidade.gov/licenses/electrical.asp
  • Broward County Building Code Division – Contractor Licensing: Verify county-level rules for specialty classifications and any required local exam or documentation beyond state licensure. Registration information: https://www.broward.org/Building/Forms/Documents/Journeyman.pdf

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

Application Process

  1. Determine the appropriate license classification (e.g., General, Building, Residential, Plumbing, HVAC, Roofing, Pool, Solar, Specialty) under the Construction Industry Licensing Board or Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board.
  2. Meet minimum age, experience, and education requirements specified in Chapter 489, Chapter 633, Chapter 373, and relevant board rules.
  3. Apply for examination through Professional Testing, Inc. (for construction/CILB exams) or submit examination application to DBPR (for electrical/ECLB exams) and obtain authorization.
  4. Schedule required exams (Business and Finance and applicable Trade/Technical exams) with Pearson VUE for computer-based testing; attend any paper-and-pencil trade exams such as Plumbing Trade Knowledge.
  5. Pass all required exam parts within the allowed timeframe and obtain passing scores.
  6. Submit a licensure application to DBPR (for CILB/ECLB and elevator licenses), State Fire Marshal (for fire protection contractors), or the appropriate Water Management District (for water well contractors), including fees, proof of experience, financial responsibility, and background checks.
  7. Obtain required general liability, property damage, and workers’ compensation insurance or exemptions and submit proof.
  8. Undergo any required fingerprint-based background checks through FDLE-approved Livescan providers.
  9. Upon approval by the licensing board or agency, receive the license or certificate and register as qualifying agent for business entities if applicable.
  10. Maintain the license by renewing on the required cycle (often every 2 years) and completing mandatory continuing education hours.

Timeline: For state construction contractor licenses, processing from exam registration to license issuance commonly spans 2–3 months, excluding time needed to accumulate experience and prepare for exams. Electrical and specialty licenses follow similar timelines once experience requirements are met.

Reciprocity

Florida has reciprocity with: Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina.

Requirements: Under Section 489.115(3)(c), Florida Statutes, applicants must hold a current, comparable contractor license in a reciprocating state, be in good standing (often at least 5 years), have originally passed the relevant trade exam there, and pass Florida’s Business and Finance exam. Applicants must also meet Florida experience, moral character, and financial responsibility standards and submit verification from the reciprocating state.

Limitations: Reciprocity focuses on Division I contractor classifications (General, Building, Residential). Trades such as plumbing, HVAC, roofing, electrical, and specialty categories are generally not covered by reciprocity and must follow standard Florida application and examination processes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Once you meet experience and education requirements, plan for roughly 2–3 months from exam registration to license issuance for state construction categories, assuming timely exam scheduling and a complete application file. Electrical and specialty pathways follow similar timelines after prerequisites are satisfied.

Can I transfer my license from another state to Florida?

Florida offers reciprocity for certain Division I classifications with Louisiana, Mississippi, and North Carolina. You must hold a comparable license in good standing, have originally passed that state’s trade exam, and pass Florida’s Business and Finance exam. Verification from the other state and Florida’s experience, moral character, and financial responsibility checks are required.

What happens if I fail the exam?

Retake policies and waiting periods are determined by the exam administrators and boards. For CILB and ECLB exams, scheduling and retake rules are managed through Professional Testing, Inc. and Pearson VUE; consult your candidate booklet and exam provider for current retake options and fees.

Do I need insurance?

Yes. Florida requires general liability and property damage coverage for most contractor licenses, and workers’ compensation or an approved exemption. Minimums vary by classification—for example, General Contractors carry higher limits than many Division II specialties.

How do I renew my license?

Most state contractor licenses renew biennially on set August 31 cycles (even or odd years by license type) and require continuing education hours that include Florida Building Code, laws and rules, business practices, safety, and workers’ compensation topics.

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

Some licensing steps are local. Always verify with your city or county building department—local boards control journeyman credentials, local registrations, and permitting procedures that may supplement your state license.

Where can I find practice tests for Florida exams?

We offer comprehensive PDF practice tests for Florida contractor license exams. Each guide typically includes 1,500–2,500 questions, answer keys for every question, and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline at your own pace with no time or use limits. 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: 2026-07-10
  2. Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation – Construction Examinations
    https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/examination-information/construction-examinations/
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  3. Florida DBPR – Candidate Information Booklet for Construction Industry Licensing Board
    https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/servop/testing/documents/const_cib.pdf
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  4. Florida DBPR – Electrical Examinations
    https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/examination-information/electrical-examinations/
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  5. Florida DBPR – Electrical Contractors
    https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/electrical-contractors/
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  6. Florida Statutes – Chapter 489.505 (Alarm system contractors and definitions)
    https://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0489/Sections/0489.505.html
    State Statute | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  7. Florida Statutes – Chapter 633.318 (Fire Protection System Contractors)
    https://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699/0633/Sections/0633.318.html
    State Statute | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  8. Florida Department of Environmental Protection – Water Well Contractor Licensing and Permitting
    https://floridadep.gov/water/source-drinking-water/content/water-well-contractor-licensing-and-permitting
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  9. Florida State Fire Marshal – Regulatory Licensing
    https://www.myfloridacfo.com/division/sfm/bfp/regulatory-licensing
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  10. DBPR – Bureau of Elevator Safety
    https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/elevator-safety/
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  11. Open MyFloridaBusiness – Elevator Companies, Technicians and Inspectors
    https://openmyfloridabusiness.gov/business/23/elevator-companies/?print
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  12. Northwest Florida Water Management District – Water Well Contractor License Application
    https://nwfwater.com/content/download/7316/55085/ContractorPackage.pdf
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  13. Broward County – Journeyman Application
    https://www.broward.org/Building/Forms/Documents/Journeyman.pdf
    Official County Licensing Document | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  14. Miami-Dade County – Plumbing License and Journeyman Definition
    https://www.miamidade.gov/global/license.page?Mduid_license=lic1503416609527654
    Official County Licensing Site | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  15. Florida DBPR – Exam Application Packet (Construction Industry Licensing Board)
    https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/servop/testing/documents/exam_applic_pack.pdf
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  16. Pearson VUE – Florida DBPR Construction Licensing Exams
    https://www.pearsonvue.com/us/en/fl/construction.html
    Exam Provider | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  17. Pearson VUE – Florida DBPR Electrical Licensing Exams
    https://www.pearsonvue.com/us/en/fl/electrical.html
    Exam Provider | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  18. Florida DBPR – Application for Certification by Reciprocity (CILB 32)
    https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/pro/cilb/documents/CILB32_Reciprocity.pdf
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-07-10
  19. Sarasota County Department of Health – Swimming Pool Service Licenses and Certifications
    https://sarasota.floridahealth.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/59/2025/05/pool-contractor-licensing-information-2016.pdf
    County Health Department (Government) | Accessed: 2026-07-10

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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