Florida Contractor License Requirements

Find licensing requirements for 30 contractor trades in Florida. Select a trade below to see detailed fees, exams, and step-by-step instructions.

Florida Licensing Overview

Florida requires state-level licensing for 20 out of 30 contractor trades covered in this guide. The remaining 10 trades do not require a state license, though local jurisdictions (cities and counties) may have their own permit or registration requirements.

Licensing is handled by various state agencies depending on the trade. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing authority before beginning your application, as fees and regulations can change.

Asbestos Abatement

Asbestos Abatement

$575

Total Cost

2 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Boiler Technician

Boiler Technician

$360

Total Cost

2 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Carpenter

Carpenter

Not Required

$0

Total Cost

0 yrs

Experience

No

Exam

Demolition Contractor

Demolition Contractor

$480

Total Cost

3 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Electrician

Electrician

$325

Total Cost

4 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Elevator Mechanic

Elevator Mechanic

$555

Total Cost

4 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Excavation Contractor

Excavation Contractor

$400

Total Cost

3 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Fencing Contractor

Fencing Contractor

Not Required

$0

Total Cost

0 yrs

Experience

No

Exam

Fire Sprinkler Installer

Fire Sprinkler Installer

$490

Total Cost

4 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Flooring Contractor

Flooring Contractor

Not Required

$0

Total Cost

0 yrs

Experience

No

Exam

General Contractor

General Contractor

$570

Total Cost

4 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Glazier

Glazier

Not Required

$0

Total Cost

0 yrs

Experience

No

Exam

Home Inspector

Home Inspector

$525

Total Cost

0 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

HVAC Technician

HVAC Technician

$360

Total Cost

3 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Insulation Contractor

Insulation Contractor

Not Required

$0

Total Cost

0 yrs

Experience

No

Exam

Ironworker

Ironworker

Not Required

$0

Total Cost

0 yrs

Experience

No

Exam

Landscaper

Landscaper

Not Required

$0

Total Cost

0 yrs

Experience

No

Exam

Lead Paint Abatement

Lead Paint Abatement

$450

Total Cost

1 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Low Voltage Technician

Low Voltage Technician

$280

Total Cost

2 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Mason

Mason

Not Required

$0

Total Cost

0 yrs

Experience

No

Exam

Painting Contractor

Painting Contractor

Not Required

$0

Total Cost

0 yrs

Experience

No

Exam

Pest Control

Pest Control

$265

Total Cost

1 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Pipefitter

Pipefitter

$330

Total Cost

4 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Plumber

Plumber

$330

Total Cost

4 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Roofing Contractor

Roofing Contractor

$395

Total Cost

3 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Septic System Installer

Septic System Installer

$325

Total Cost

2 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Sheet Metal Worker

Sheet Metal Worker

$325

Total Cost

4 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Solar Installer

Solar Installer

$465

Total Cost

2 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Welder

Welder

Not Required

$0

Total Cost

0 yrs

Experience

No

Exam

Well Driller

Well Driller

$475

Total Cost

3 yrs

Experience

Yes

Exam

Tips for Getting Licensed in Florida

  • Start early. Many licenses require years of experience or apprenticeship hours. Plan your career path well in advance.
  • Keep documentation. Maintain records of all work experience, training hours, and certifications. You will need these for your application.
  • Budget for all costs. Beyond application and license fees, factor in exam prep materials, insurance premiums, and bond costs.
  • Check local requirements. Even if a state license is not required for your trade, your city or county may require a local business license or contractor registration.
  • Stay current. Most licenses require renewal every 1-3 years. Some trades require continuing education credits for renewal.