Bidding and operating contracting jobs in Florida require a contractor to obtain a license from the Construction Industry Licensing Board. A Florida Contractor License is necessary for conducting construction-related business in Florida. This guide provides an overview of the processes for obtaining the license, including essential information about the exam and key tips for successful preparation. Let’s take the first step toward your professional journey.
What Scope Of Work Can You Do?
Florida Certified General Contractor License: This is the most sought-after license as it allows a contractor to bid on jobs up to $1,000,000 and covers all building-related trades, such as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC.
Florida Building Contractor License: Allowed to work on residential and commercial structures which exceed 3 stories. This includes a guest house, garage, and mobile home.
Florida Residential Contractor License: Covers residential projects up to three stories and allows contractors to build single-family homes, duplexes, detached garages, and more.
Certified Licenses vs. Registered Licenses: Florida has two types of contractor’s licenses: certified and registered. Registered licenses are available to limited liability companies (L.L.C.), partnerships, or corporations, while certified licenses are available to individuals with the skills necessary to perform construction work.
How To Get A Contractor License?
To obtain a Florida contractor license, an individual must meet certain qualifications and pass the applicable exams. Business and Financial Management and Construction Contractors’ Exams are the most common exams.
Meet Eligibility Requirements – To become a licensed contractor in Florida. You must:
- Be at least 18 years of age;
- Have a Social Security Number;
- Be of good moral character;
- Have 4 years of verifiable work experience in the applicable trade or field.
Take & Pass A Business & Financial Management Exam: You will need to pass an approved business and financial management exam. This is required for all applicants and can be taken at any state-approved exam provider.
Take & Pass A Construction Contractors’ Exam: This is the second part of the licensing process, covering various aspects of construction law and building codes in Florida. The applicant must pass this exam with a score of at least 70%.
Submit The Paperwork To CILB: Once all requirements have been met and the exams passed, you must apply for a contractor’s license. This includes proof of experience, insurance information, and other required documents.
Get Approved And Receive Your Contractor’s License: After submitting your paperwork to CILB, it can take up to 4-6 weeks for them to process and approve your application. Once approved, you will receive your contractor’s license in the mail.
Tips For Exam Preparation
- Research The CILB Requirements: Understand all of the requirements for obtaining a contractor’s license so that you can properly prepare for the exams.
- Take Practice Tests: Practice tests are essential to effective exam preparation. By familiarizing yourself with the types of questions you will be asked on the exams, you can increase your chances of success.
- Utilize Study Materials: Various study materials are available online to help you prepare for the exams. Take advantage of these resources and review them thoroughly before taking the tests.
- Stay Organized: Organization is key to successful exam preparation. Make sure to keep all your notes, study materials, and other documents orderly so you can easily find what you need when it comes time to take the exams.
- Practice Test-Taking Strategies – Developing test-taking strategies such as skimming for keywords or focusing on main ideas can help you increase your chances of success.
Get Started Today!
RocketCert is a leading provider of online practice exams for the Business and Financial Management Exam and Construction Contractors’ Exam. Our comprehensive practice tests are designed to help you gain the knowledge and confidence to pass your exams with flying colors. Get started today and take the first step towards becoming a licensed contractor in Florida!
Final Words
In conclusion, earning a Florida contractor’s license requires preparation, dedication, and strategic planning. You can successfully embark on your journey as a certified or registered contractor in Florida by meeting all prerequisites, passing the necessary exams, and submitting the required paperwork to CILB. Good luck on your professional journey!
