Florida Contractor License Checklist

4 years of construction experience (or degree + experience)

Must demonstrate at least 4 years of verifiable construction experience. A 4-year degree in construction, engineering, or architecture can substitute for up to 3 years.

CPA-prepared financial statement

A certified public accountant must prepare your personal financial statement showing your net worth. Required for the CILB to evaluate your financial responsibility.

Credit report review

Pull your credit report and review for any issues. The CILB checks credit history as part of the financial responsibility evaluation.

Complete DBPR application form

Submit your application through the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) online portal or by mail.

Pay $249 application fee

Non-refundable application fee payable to the DBPR. Fee covers initial review by the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB).

Electronic fingerprinting (LiveScan)

Submit electronic fingerprints through an approved LiveScan vendor. Required for background check. Results sent directly to DBPR.

Passport-style photo

Recent passport-quality photo required with your application. Can be taken at most pharmacies or shipping stores.

Proof of General Liability insurance

General liability insurance coverage is required for active licensure. Minimum coverage amounts vary by license type.

Workers Comp insurance (or exemption if solo)

Workers compensation insurance required if you have employees. Solo operators can apply for a workers comp exemption through the DBPR.

Register with PSI for the exam

After DBPR application approval, register with PSI (exam administrator) to schedule your exam date.

Pay exam fee ($78.75 per part)

The FL General Contractor exam has 3 parts: Business & Finance, Contract Admin, and Project Management. Each part costs $78.75.

Prepare 2 forms of government-issued ID

Primary ID must be a government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport). Secondary ID must include your name and signature.

Obtain approved reference books and tab them

The exam is open-book. Purchase the PSI-approved reference books, tab key sections, and practice looking up answers quickly. You may bring up to 15 books.

Receive your license number from DBPR

After passing all 3 exam parts, DBPR issues your Certified General Contractor license number. Check the DBPR portal for status updates.

Obtain local business licenses

Apply for city and county occupational/business licenses in the jurisdictions where you plan to operate.

Register with your county building department

Register your state license with the local county building department to pull permits. Each county has its own registration process.

Obtain a contractor surety bond

FL General Contractors must obtain a surety bond between $5,000 and $25,000. Annual premium is typically 1-3% of the bond amount.