Thinking of becoming a licensed general contractor in Florida? Whether you’re aiming to manage high-value construction projects statewide or serve your local community, this guide walks you through every essential step. From eligibility and exams to insurance and licensing, here’s what you should know.

1. Know Your License Path: Certified vs Registered

Certified General Contractor: State-level license granting statewide capabilities across residential or commercial projects. Requires passing both a Business & Finance exam and a Technical/Trade exam—or the NASCLA alternative—plus credentials like experience, financial responsibility, and insurance.

Registered General Contractor: Local-level license, allowing you to work only in specific jurisdictions with a Certificate of Competency instead of the state’s exam. Note: some counties may still require you to have a certified license.

2. Check Your Eligibility & Build Credibility

• Experience or Education: While a college degree can provide a solid foundation, it’s not a requirement for becoming a general contractor in Florida. You’ll need at least 4 years of relevant construction experience (making one year as a supervisor counts), or substitute some experience with related college coursework.
• Financial Stability: Prove financial responsibility—often via net worth or credit checks. Consider securing a surety bond as a backup.
• Insurance: General liability and workers’ compensation—or formal exemption documentation—is essential for licensure.
• Background Check: You’ll undergo a character review before approval.

3. Ace the FL Contractor Exams (or Use Reciprocity)

FL Contractor Exams You Must Take:

• Business & Finance Exam: Covers law, regulatory knowledge, contracts, and financials.
• Technical/Trade Exam: Focuses on construction practices, estimating, codes, safety, and building methods.

Study Tips:

• Treat exam prep like a serious study regimen: understand test format, key topics, and practice under timed conditions.
• Consider reputable prep courses that offer exam-like study materials—and even a “pass or keep helping” guarantee.

Exam Waivers via Reciprocity:

Some applicants holding licenses in other states may bypass the technical exam through reciprocity. However, the Business & Finance exam is typically still required.

4. Submit Your Application with Confidence

• Online Submission: Apply through Florida’s DBPR, Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) portal with your exam scores, proof of experience, financial documentation, insurance, and applicable fees.
• Double-Check Everything: Missing info or failing proofs lead to delays or denials. Services offering document review and application support can be helpful—even though there’s an extra cost.
• Typical Timeline: Once properly submitted, review and licensure can take several weeks, depending on board schedules.

5. Tips for Succeeding as a General Contractor in Florida

• Understand Contracts: Never sign without reading thoroughly. Consider legal counsel to decode complex terms.
• Gather Feedback Early: Ask initial clients for reviews to build credibility and referral momentum.
• Stay Current: Invest in continuous learning. Keep updated on construction methods, code changes, and tech trends.
• Use Your Network: Attend industry meetups and conferences, keep your LinkedIn profile up to date, and always carry business cards or branded materials.

6. FL Contractor License Renewals & Growing Your Operation

• License Renewal: Typically required every two years; continuing education may be mandated.
• Business Habits: Keep personal and business finances separate—strong practice for liability protection and tax clarity.
• Scale Strategically: Expand offerings, consider specializations, or grow into commercial projects once you’re established.

Go Forth and Become a General Contractor in Florida!

Becoming a licensed general contractor in Florida is a strategic and manageable process if you plan ahead, study smart, and stay organized. Equipped with your Florida contractor license and skill set, you’ll be able to land jobs with confidence.

ZTERS is here to support construction professionals in securing reliable site services including roll-off dumpsters, temporary fencing, portable toilets, and more. Keep us in mind when you need construction site services in Florida and beyond!