At a Glance
Quick Answer
Florida requires a state-level contractor license for projects above All construction improvements require a license (handyman exemption for minor work). Exam required. NASCLA accepted. Administered by Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) / Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB).
Context
Licensing & Bidding in Florida
Bidding construction work in Florida means working under the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and its Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). A license is required for essentially all construction improvements, with only a narrow handyman exemption for minor work, so estimators should treat licensure as a precondition to submitting any meaningful bid. Florida issues two credentials: a Certified license, valid statewide, and a Registered license, which is limited to specific counties. With local licensing being phased out by June 30, 2025 for most categories, pursuing the Certified path gives you the broadest bidding reach across the state.
Expect to pass an exam, and note that Florida accepts the NASCLA accreditation, which is a significant advantage for multi-state and out-of-state bidders who can leverage one nationally recognized credential. Reciprocity arrangements exist with several states including California, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, and Georgia, which can shorten the path to qualifying. Plan for financial underwriting too: a credit score of 660 or higher is generally required, and a surety bond serves as the alternative if your score falls below that line. Build bond and exam-prep costs into your overhead before you chase larger jobs.
The risk of bidding unlicensed is severe. A first offense is a first-degree misdemeanor carrying up to a year of jail or probation, and subsequent offenses escalate to a third-degree felony punishable by up to five years, with possible treble damages on top. Unlicensed contractors also forfeit the ability to enforce contracts and protect payment through lien rights, which can wipe out an entire job's profit. Confirm your classification under Division I (general, building, residential) or Division II (specialty trades) matches the scope before you bid.
Details
Key Facts & Fees
Key Facts
- GC License Required
- Yes
- Threshold
- All construction improvements require a license (handyman exemption for minor work)
- Exam Required
- Yes
- NASCLA Accepted
- Yes
Fees
- Application Fee
- $145 - $305 depending on certification type
- License Fee
- Included in application
- Renewal Fee
- $209 biennially
Reference
Key Facts
Two license types: Certified (statewide) and Registered (county-specific)
Local licensing phased out by June 30, 2025 for most categories
Credit score of 660+ required; bond alternative if below 660
Division I covers general, building, and residential; Division II covers specialty trades
Requirements
Insurance Requirements
Education
Continuing Education
14 hours every 2 years
Interstate
Reciprocity States
Specialty
Specialty Licenses Required
Process
How to Apply
- 1Complete the DBPR application for Certified or Registered contractor
- 2Pass the 3-part exam (general, business, and Florida-specific) with 70% on each
- 3Submit proof of general liability insurance ($300,000 BI/$50,000 PD)
- 4Obtain workers compensation insurance or purchase exemption
- 5Submit credit report (660+ FICO) or obtain surety bond
- 6Pay application fee ($145-$305) and exam fees
Enforcement
Penalties for Unlicensed Work
First offense: first-degree misdemeanor (1 year jail/probation); subsequent offenses: third-degree felony (5 years); possible treble damages
Resources
Related Templates
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FAQ
Questions Contractors Ask
Do I need a contractor license in Florida?
Yes. Florida requires a state-level contractor license for projects above All construction improvements require a license (handyman exemption for minor work). The administering board is Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) / Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB).
Is an exam required in Florida?
Yes. Florida requires a licensing exam. The state accepts the NASCLA standardized exam as an alternative to the state-specific exam.
What insurance is required in Florida?
General Liability: $300,000 bodily injury / $50,000 property damage for general and building contractors. Workers Comp: Required for all contractors; sole proprietors may purchase exemption ($50/year). Bond: $20,000 for Division I (general); $10,000 for Division II (specialty).
What are the penalties for unlicensed contracting in Florida?
First offense: first-degree misdemeanor (1 year jail/probation); subsequent offenses: third-degree felony (5 years); possible treble damages
What is the difference between a Certified and Registered contractor license in Florida?
A Certified license is issued by the DBPR and lets you bid and work statewide. A Registered license is limited to specific counties that recognize it. With local licensing phased out by June 30, 2025 for most categories, the Certified credential offers the broadest and most durable bidding reach.
Do out-of-state contractors need a Florida license to bid here?
Yes. Florida requires licensure for nearly all construction improvements, but it accepts the NASCLA accreditation and holds reciprocity with states including California, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, and Georgia. Those pathways shorten qualification, yet you must still obtain a Florida credential through the CILB before bidding work.
Does Florida check credit before issuing a contractor license?
Yes. Florida generally requires a credit score of 660 or higher for licensure. Contractors who fall below that threshold can typically still qualify by posting a surety bond as an alternative. Factor both the underwriting requirement and potential bond cost into your overhead before pursuing larger projects.