Florida Residential Contractor License
Florida Residential Contractor License Requirements & Application Help
Getting your Florida Residential Contractor license does not have to be difficult! Perhaps you've attempted this before and encountered obstacles, or maybe you're hesitant to begin, or simply lack the time to complete the task. At Contractor Licensing Inc., we offer a swift and straightforward method that eliminates the uncertainty from the residential contractor application procedure. We take immense satisfaction in obtaining licenses for our clients in an unprecedented timeframe!
We understand that the State of Florida has specific requirements for residential contractor licenses and that each application is distinct. Therefore, we invest time in thoroughly understanding our clients and validating their experience to ensure their successful licensing. Application assistance is just one small part of our operation. In addition, knowing all of the factors that go into that application is what takes time and experience.
Quick Answer
- A Residential Contractor's services are limited to one-, two-, or three-family dwellings not exceeding two stories in height.
- Five experience-and-education pathways qualify you to apply, plus documented experience in specific construction areas.
- Three application types exist: Initial Issuance, Change of Status, and Qualify an Additional Entity.
- Review every application type and purchase the Initial Issuance application service on our Florida Contractor License Information page.
- Change of Status and Qualify an Additional Entity applications are quoted individually based on your specific situation.
- General liability insurance is required for every certified license.
What Is a Florida Residential Contractor?
A Florida Residential Contractor means a contractor whose services are limited to construction of one, two, or three family dwellings not exceeding two stories in height. It's a Certified license issued by the DBPR's Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), meaning it's valid across the entire state, not just one city or county.
Five Ways to Qualify
You must be able to prove one of the following options in order to submit your Florida Residential Contractor License application to the DBPR:
- A 4-year construction-related degree from an accredited college, plus 1 year of on-the-job experience.
- 1 year of experience as a foreman, plus not less than 3 years of credit from accredited college-level courses.
- 1 year as a worker, 1 year of experience as a foreman, plus 2 years of credit from accredited college-level courses.
- 2 years as a worker, 1 year as a foreman, plus 1 year of credit from accredited college-level courses.
- 4 years as a worker or foreman, of which at least 1 year must have been as a foreman.
Residential Contractor Construction-Related Experience
You must provide experience in the following areas of construction in order to be eligible for the Florida Residential Contractor License:
Foundation / Slabs
Including structural formwork.
Masonry Walls
Load-bearing and non-load-bearing.
Structural Demolition
Removal of structural building components.
Column Erection
Structural column installation.
Structural Wood Framing
Including trusses, excluding platform framing.
Florida Residential Contractor License Application Types
Initial Issuance Application
For a first-time Residential Contractor license, filed as either an individual or a business entity.
Change of Status Application
For moving your existing license between business structures, or updating how it's held.
Qualify an Additional Entity Application
For an already-licensed qualifier who wants to extend their license to cover a second business entity.
Start Your Residential Contractor Application
Initial Issuance Application
Review all Florida contractor license application types and purchase our Initial Issuance application service directly on our main application page.
- Review every Florida application type side by side
- Purchase the Initial Issuance application service
- Experience review & required document checklist
- Financial responsibility review
- Application package review & submission guidance
Need a Different Application Type?
Change of Status and Qualify an Additional Entity applications are quoted individually based on your specific situation — they aren't a flat-rate, self-checkout service.
- Tell us about your current license status
- We review your situation and the right application path
- We send you a quote specific to your case
General Liability Insurance
Every Certified Residential Contractor must carry general liability insurance before the DBPR will issue a license.
We work closely with our sister company, Artisan Insurance Inc., to provide these insurance needs. Both businesses are family owned and operated, so your license paperwork and your insurance move together instead of stalling on each other.
Renewing a Residential Contractor License
Certified licenses renew every two years, due by August 31 of even-numbered years. Renewal requires 14 hours of continuing education, covering topics like workplace safety, workers' compensation, and business practices. At least 1 hour of that must be wind mitigation coursework.
Florida Residential Contractor License Reciprocity
Florida's CILB has direct reciprocity agreements covering General, Building, and Residential contractor licenses with three states: Louisiana, North Carolina, and Mississippi. Contractors licensed in one of those states can apply through a reciprocal path rather than starting from scratch. Outside of those three, out-of-state applicants typically qualify through Certification by Endorsement using a NASCLA exam score instead.
Licensing rules vary widely by state. If you're weighing Florida against another market, our national contractor licensing guide breaks down requirements state by state.
How to Become a Residential Contractor in Florida
If you're looking to become a Florida Residential Contractor, you've come to the right place. We offer three different types of license applications to suit your needs. We specialize in Florida Construction License Applications, and we are ready to help you!
Whether you are applying for a new license, changing from one business to another, or wanting to qualify an additional business, we are here to help.
Florida Residential Contractor License FAQ
What is a Florida Residential Contractor license?
A Certified, statewide license limited to one-, two-, or three-family dwellings not exceeding two stories in height.
What experience do I need?
One of five education-and-experience combinations, plus documented experience in specific construction areas like structural formwork, masonry walls, and structural wood framing.
What application types are available?
Initial Issuance, Change of Status, and Qualify an Additional Entity applications.
Can I purchase my application online?
Yes — review all application types and purchase the Initial Issuance application service on our Florida Contractor License Information page. Change of Status and Qualify an Additional Entity are quoted individually.
What insurance do I need?
General liability insurance is required. Artisan Insurance Inc. coordinates this coverage alongside your application.
Contact
Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
Construction Industry Licensing Board
Customer Contact Center: 850.487.1395
Ready to Get Your Florida Residential Contractor License?
Whether you're ready to start your Initial Issuance application today or need a quote for a different application type, Contractor Licensing Inc. can help you move forward.
© 2022 - Contractor Licensing Inc. Theme by HB-Themes.