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2 days ago · Explore our detailed guide on whether you’ll need a Florida contractor license, how to obtain one if you do, and which additional licenses you may need.
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How do I become a registered contractor in Florida?
Do I need a Florida contractor's license?
How long does it take to become a general contractor in Florida?
How do I get a construction license in Florida?
- Overview
- Getting the Necessary Qualifications
- Applying to be a Contractor
- Finding Contracting Work
As a general contractor, you are responsible for supplying the material, labor, and equipment for a construction project. To become a general contractor in Florida, you must pass a state issued contractor exam and have at least 4 years of work experience. Though the contractor exam costs money to take, it can help you find positions as a contractor...
Be over 18 years old and pass a background check.
You must have a clean record and be of age to apply to be a general contractor in Florida. You will need to provide your fingerprints for the background check.
Have at least 4 years of experience in contracting in the U.S.
You will need to provide the names, dates, and locations of your employers in the United States to prove your work experience. You must have at least 1 year of supervisory experience as a contractor to qualify for licensing.
You will also need to have a licensed architect, engineer, or building official attest to your work experience.
It helps to work at multiple companies so you can get work experience, see how companies run, and meet people in the industry.
Decide if you are going to apply for a certified or registered license.
A certified license is slightly more expensive to get but it allows you to work as a contractor anywhere in Florida. A registered license is cheaper to get and allows you to work in specific local jurisdictions in Florida only.
Most people get the certified general contractor license as it gives them more freedom to work anywhere in the state.
Study for the contractor’s exam.
The exam consists of 3 parts and you will have 9 hours total to complete the exam. You must score at least 70% to pass the exam. You are allowed to bring several reference books into the exam with you that cover Florida building codes and other regulations. Buy these books in advance and review them so you are familiar with the content before you take the exam.
The 3 parts of the exam are: Project Management, Contract Administration, and Business and Finance. You should be able to answer the questions using your experience and knowledge as a contractor as well as the books you are allowed to bring into the exam.
Have proof of your certification on hand.
You should receive a certification card that shows you are a general contractor that has been approved to work in Florida. Show potential employers that you have your certification to boost your chances of landing a position. Note you have your certification on your
and in your job applications so employers are aware of your status.
Apply for positions online or in person through construction companies.
Look for openings for general contractors through construction companies in your area. Check for a call for contractors for major construction projects. Visit construction companies in person to look for a position or contact them via email.
Have copies of your resume on hand to give to employers so they can review your credentials.
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Aug 18, 2024 · Learning how to become a licensed contractor in Florida can help you start your career more efficiently. In this article, we explain how to become a contractor in Florida and offer some additional tips to help you through the licensing process.
- Nick Bester
Dec 14, 2010 · To become licensed as a Registered Contractor, you must: Provide a copy of your local contractor's license; Submit to a criminal background check; and. Meet financial responsibility and insurance requirements. You may access the application for an Initial Registered Contractor's license online at Apply For/Update Licenses.
What are the Requirements to Become a General Contractor in Florida? General Contractor Requisites. Have experience in the trade. Age: Must be at least 18 years of age. Examination: Must pass state certification examinations (Contract Administration, Project Management, and Business).
Aug 14, 2012 · You must complete the Florida contractor's examination, meet financial stability and responsibility requirements and provide proof of experience in the category for which you wish to become licensed.
Jun 20, 2024 · How to get a contractor license in Florida. Registered licenses for specific areas. Certified licenses for statewide certification. Electrical contractors. Florida's handyman exception. Performing a Florida contractor license search. Penalties for unlicensed construction work in Florida. Additional resources.
