Licensing

One of the requirements for licensure is a good credit score and a clean background. Therefore credit reports and electronic fingerprinting are required as part of the application package.

For a list of approved credit report agencies refer to the following DBPR document:
CILB Credit Reporting Agencies

Electronic fingerprinting can be done at various convenient locations across the state. You can find out more information in the following DBPR document:
CILB Electronic Fingerprinting

You can find the applications for licensure by following this link: Florida License Applications

Exam scores are good for 4 years from the date the first portion is passed.

The following are general requirements for any license type:

Age: You must be at least 18.

Examination: You must pass the Business & Finance Exam and the Trade Knowledge Exam with a minimum score of 70% prior to submitting your application.

Experience/Education: You need to have 4 years of construction experience or a combination of education and experience. 1 year of your experience must be in the role of a foreman or supervisor in the category of licensure you are applying for!!

Financial/Credit: You must submit a credit report that includes a FICO derived credit score of 660 or higher as proof of financial stability and responsibility. Additional actions must be taken if your credit score is below 660.

Fingerprints: You must have a criminal background check and electronic fingerprinting done as part of the application process.

Insurance: You must attest to the fact that you have obtained public liability and property damage insurance, as well as workers’ compensation insurance or an appropriate exemption thereto.

Fee: You must pay the application fee.

For more specific qualifications go take a look at the application center for the license categories listed below:

  • Air Conditioning: Class A, B & C
  • Building
  • General
  • Internal Pollutant Storage Tank Lining Applicator
  • Mechanical
  • Plumbing
  • Pollutant Storage Systems
  • Pool/Spa
    • Class A – Commercial
    • Class B – Residential
    • Class C – Service
  • Precision Tank Tester
  • Residential
  • Roofing
  • Sheet Metal
  • Solar
  • Specialty
    • Drywall
    • Demolition
    • Gas Line
    • Glass and Glazing
    • Industrial Facilities
    • Irrigation
    • Marine
    • Residential Pool/Spa Servicing
    • Solar Water Heating
    • Structure
    • Swimming Pool Decking
    • Swimming Pool Excavation
    • Swimming Pool Finishes
    • Swimming Pool Layout
    • Swimming Pool Piping
    • Swimming Pool Structural
    • Swimming Pool Trim
    • Tower
  • Underground Utility and Excavation