Florida requires general contractors to be licensed by the state before contracting construction projects. The Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), under the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), issues the certified general contractor license. This guide walks through the main steps, typical requirements, and the exam process for the Florida certified general contractor license.
Requirements can change. Always confirm current licensing rules with the official state or local licensing authority before applying.
Quick Overview
- Experience4 Years
- Exam FeeVaries
- Renewal2 Years
- CE Needed14 Hours
Figures come from official sources and can change. Always confirm with the licensing authority before applying.
3 Steps to Licensure
- 1
Meet the requirements
Requirements for the Florida certified general contractor license typically include:
- At least 4 years of experience in the construction industry, with at least 1 year as a foreman or supervisor.
- Proof of general liability insurance (minimum coverage amounts set by the CILB).
- Proof of workers' compensation insurance (or a valid exemption).
- Financial statements demonstrating credit worthiness (typically a credit score review and balance sheet).
- A completed application submitted to the CILB through the DBPR portal.
- Passing score on both sections of the CILB licensing exam.
Requirements can change. Always confirm current licensing rules with the CILB before applying.
- 2
Submit your application
Steps to apply for the Florida certified general contractor license:
- Create a DBPR Online Services account and complete the application.
- Upload or mail all required supporting documents: experience forms, insurance certificates, financial statements, and proof of identity.
- Pay the application fee to the DBPR.
- Wait for CILB review. The board may request additional documentation.
- After approval, receive a Prometric Authorization to Test (ATT) and schedule your exam appointment.
- Pass both exam sections (Business and Law; Project Management).
- Complete any post-exam licensing steps and receive your license certificate.
- 3
Pass the general contractor exam
The Florida certified general contractor exam is administered by Prometric in two separate sections:
- Business and Law - Covers Florida contractor licensing statutes, contract law, lien law, workers' compensation, OSHA, and financial management.
- Project Management - Covers estimating, scheduling, plan reading, Florida Building Code, and construction methods.
Both sections are open-book. Prometric publishes an approved reference list that changes periodically. A passing score of 70 percent is required on each section. Contact Prometric or the CILB for the current exam blueprint and approved reference list. Always confirm requirements with the CILB before your exam date.
License Types
Certified Contractor
Contract anywhere in the state without local re-qualification.
- State-wide jurisdiction
- Can pull permits
Registered Contractor
Work within a specific local jurisdiction where you hold a competency card.
- Local jurisdiction only
- Good for starting out
Details
Experience
The CILB requires 4 years of verifiable construction experience, documented through employer reference forms. At least 1 of those 4 years must be at a foreman or supervisory level. Military construction experience may count toward this requirement. Verify acceptable experience types and documentation formats with the CILB before submitting your application.
Details
Fees
Florida CILB and Prometric fees include an application fee, an exam fee, and an initial license fee. All amounts are subject to change. Always confirm current fee amounts with the CILB and Prometric before submitting payment.
Details
Renewal
Florida contractor licenses are renewed every 2 years. Renewal requirements typically include:
- 14 hours of continuing education, including required hours on wind mitigation, workers' compensation, and business practices.
- Maintained liability and workers' compensation insurance coverage.
- Payment of the renewal fee.
Continuing education and renewal requirements can change. Confirm current requirements with the CILB before your renewal deadline to avoid lapses in your license.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get a Florida general contractor license?
From submitting a complete application to receiving the license typically takes 2 to 4 months, depending on CILB review volume and exam scheduling availability. Requirements can change; confirm current timelines with the CILB.
What insurance does a Florida general contractor need?
The CILB requires proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance (or a valid exemption). Minimum coverage amounts are set by the CILB and can change. Confirm current requirements before purchasing coverage.
Do I need a separate license for each type of construction in Florida?
The certified general contractor license covers most commercial and residential construction work statewide. Specialty trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) require separate specialty contractor licenses. Confirm the scope of each license type with the CILB.
Can I use a Florida contractor license in other states?
Florida has reciprocity agreements with some states for contractor licensing. Eligible states and license types change over time. Contact the CILB for current reciprocity options and application procedures.
How many times can I retake the Florida contractor exam if I fail?
Florida allows exam retakes, but there may be waiting periods and additional fees. Contact Prometric and the CILB for the current retake policy and any restrictions that apply.
