Florida Contractor License Requirements in 2026: Everything You Need to Know

Who Needs a Florida Contractor License?

In Florida, anyone performing construction work valued at more than $2,500 (combined labor and materials) must hold a state contractor license or work under a licensed contractor. This applies to general contractors, electrical contractors, plumbing contractors, mechanical contractors, roofing contractors, and several specialty trades.

Florida offers two levels of general contractor license:

• Certified General Contractor (CGC) — statewide license, allows work anywhere in Florida
• Registered General Contractor — county-level license, limited to the issuing jurisdiction

Most contractors pursue the CGC because it provides the broadest scope of work without geographic restrictions.

Application Requirements

To apply for a CGC license through the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), you need:

• Experience: At least 4 years of construction experience, with 1 year as a foreman, supervisor, or contractor
• Financial stability: A credit report demonstrating financial responsibility
• Insurance: Workers' compensation and general liability coverage
• Background check: Fingerprinting and a clean criminal history
• Application fee: $249 to the DBPR (plus exam fees)

Exam Structure and Fees

The CGC examination consists of three separate exams administered by Prometric:

• Contract Administration — approximately 80 questions
• Project Management — approximately 80 questions
• Business & Finance — approximately 100 questions

Each exam costs approximately $78, for a total of about $236 in exam fees. You can take the exams in any order and do not need to pass all three on the same day. If you fail one exam, you can retake it without retaking the others.

Total Cost Breakdown

Here is what you can expect to spend on the full licensing process:

• CILB Application: $249
• Exam Fees (3 exams): ~$236
• Exam Prep Course: $100 – $3,500 (depending on provider)
• Reference Books: $200 – $500
• Fingerprinting: ~$50
• Credit Report: ~$15
• Insurance (annual): varies by coverage

Total out-of-pocket before insurance typically ranges from $850 to $4,500, with exam prep being the most variable cost.

Tips for a Smooth Application

The application process can take several weeks. Common reasons for delays include incomplete experience documentation, missing insurance certificates, and credit report issues. Start your application early and gather all documentation before submitting.

Once approved, you will receive your Authorization to Test letter, which allows you to schedule your exams with Prometric. Schedule promptly — popular testing centers fill up quickly.

Start Preparing Now

While your application is processing, use the time to study. LicenseAcademy offers free practice exams so you can begin building familiarity with the material immediately — no credit card required.