Do I Need a Contractor License in Florida?

Yes. Florida requires licensing for almost all construction trades. You can get a State Certified license (work anywhere in FL) or a County Registered license (one county only). Handyman work under $1,000 per job is exempt.

More detail

Two License Levels

• State Certified: DBPR-managed, work anywhere in Florida
• County Registered: Local county building department, one county only

Requirements

• 4 years experience under a licensed contractor
• Trade + business exam
• $300,000 public liability insurance
• Workers comp if you have employees
• Application ~$500 total

Penalties

• First offense: $5,000 fine minimum
• Cannot file mechanics liens without license
• Cannot enforce contracts in court