Florida General Contractor License Exam Guide
Your complete guide to the Florida General Contractor exam. 3-part structure, content areas, DBPR registration steps, costs, and study tips to help you pass on the first try.
Exam At-a-Glance
240
Total Questions
3 parts
15.5 hrs
Total Time
across 3 sessions
70%
Passing Score
each part
$295
Exam Fee
per attempt
PSI
Test Provider
in-person testing
3-Part Exam Breakdown
Each part is independently scored. You must pass all three to earn your CGC license.
Business & Financial Management
Company organization, administrative duties, accounting, HR, and government regulations for Florida contractors.
Contract Administration
Cost estimation, project contracts, licensing/permits, and construction procedures for Florida contractors.
Project Management
Construction methods, materials, safety, and blueprint reading for Florida contractors.
Pre-License Requirements
Florida requires the following before you can sit for the General Contractor exam.
4+ Years Experience
Proven construction industry experience with documentation (contracts, references, W-2s)
1+ Year Supervisory
At least 1 year as a foreman, supervisor, or contractor managing projects
Financial Statement
CPA-prepared financial statement showing adequate net worth and working capital
Surety Bond
$5,000 to $25,000 surety bond depending on license type and financial status
Exam Registration Process
Follow these steps to apply for your Florida General Contractor license and schedule the exam.
Meet Experience Requirements
You need at least 4 years of proven experience in the construction industry, with at least 1 year as a foreman, supervisor, or contractor.
Apply to DBPR / CILB
Submit your application to the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) through the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB).
Obtain Financial Documentation
Provide a CPA-prepared financial statement showing net worth and working capital. A surety bond of $5,000 to $25,000 is also required.
Schedule Exam with PSI
Once your application is approved, register with PSI to schedule your 3-part exam. The exam fee is $295.
Prepare Your Reference Books
Tab and highlight your 15 approved reference books. The exam is open book — fast lookup skills are critical.
Take and Pass All 3 Parts
Pass each part with 70% or higher. Parts may be taken on separate days. You can retake individual failed parts without repeating passed ones.
Cost Breakdown
Budget for these costs on your path to becoming a Florida Certified General Contractor.
PSI Exam Fee
Per attempt — covers all 3 parts
DBPR License Application
Initial license application fee
Surety Bond
Bond amount — annual premium is typically 1-3%
General Liability Insurance
Required for active licensure
Workers Compensation
Required if you have employees — exempt if sole proprietor
Reference Books
Up to 15 approved references — essential for open book exam
Study Tips for the Open-Book Exam
Being open book does not make the exam easy. These strategies will help you use your time and references effectively.
Tab Your Books Thoroughly
Use color-coded tabs for each content area. Create a tab index sheet for quick reference during the exam.
Practice Book Lookups
Time yourself finding answers in your references. You should be able to locate any topic within 30-60 seconds.
Master the Accounting Section
Part 1 Accounting (32%) is the highest-weighted area. Practice payroll calculations, cash flow, and cost tracking.
Know Florida Statutes
Ch. 455, 489, and 713 of Florida Statutes are heavily tested. Tab and highlight key sections.
Focus on Contract Types
Part 2 Contracts (40%) covers lump sum, cost-plus, GMP, and unit price. Know the differences and when each applies.
Take Timed Practice Exams
Simulate real exam conditions with timed tests. This builds book-lookup speed and reduces test-day anxiety.
About the Florida General Contractor Exam
The Florida General Contractor license exam is administered by PSI on behalf of the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). It is one of the most comprehensive contractor licensing exams in the United States, covering business management, contract administration, and project management across 240 questions.
Why Is It So Comprehensive?
Florida is the most active construction market in the Southeast. The state requires General Contractors to demonstrate mastery of business management (including FICA, FUTA, and workers comp calculations), Florida construction lien law (Ch. 713 F.S.), OSHA safety standards, and modern construction methods. The exam ensures licensees can manage multi-million dollar projects responsibly and in compliance with state law.
Open Book Advantage
Unlike many professional exams, the FL contractor exam is open book. You may bring up to 15 approved reference books into the testing center. This is a significant advantage if you prepare correctly — tab your books, create reference indexes, and practice timed lookups. Candidates who invest in thorough book preparation consistently outperform those who rely on memorization alone.
The Florida Certified General Contractor (CGC) license is valid statewide and authorizes the holder to bid on and construct any type of building or structure. This is distinct from the Registered General Contractor license, which is county-specific. The CGC designation is the gold standard for Florida construction professionals, and passing the exam is a significant career milestone. Whether you are an experienced superintendent looking to start your own firm or a project manager pursuing formal licensure, thorough exam preparation is the key to passing on the first attempt.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I qualify for the Florida General Contractor license?
What books are allowed on the FL contractor exam?
Can I take the 3 exam parts on different days?
What is the difference between a Certified and Registered contractor in Florida?
How long does the entire licensing process take?
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Start Preparing for the FL Contractor Exam
Practice with questions covering all 3 exam parts. AI-powered explanations help you master Business, Contract Admin, and Project Management.