Contractor registration
- Most construction work requires a license from DBPR's Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). Working unlicensed can bring fines up to $10,000 and criminal charges.
- Certified license: you pass the state exam and can work anywhere in Florida.
- Registered license: based on a local certificate of competency, and only valid in the cities or counties where you hold one.
- Your LLC must be qualified by a licensed contractor (the qualifying agent) and registered with DBPR as a business.
- Licensed contractors complete 14 hours of continuing education every two years.
- Most jobs also need city or county building permits and a local business tax receipt.
Bonding
- Florida has no general contractor license bond. Instead, applicants must show financial responsibility, which includes a credit review.
- If your credit doesn't meet the board's standard, you may need to post a surety bond or complete a financial responsibility course.
- If your qualifying contractor doesn't own the LLC, extra requirements such as a financially responsible officer and a bond may apply.
- Public construction contracts over $100,000 generally require payment and performance bonds (Florida Statutes 255.05).
Insurance
- Workers' comp is required for any construction business with even one employee — stricter than other Florida industries.
- Up to three owners who each own at least 10% can file for an exemption for themselves with the Division of Workers' Compensation. Employees must still be covered.
- You must have workers' comp or an exemption within 30 days of getting your license.
- General liability is required for licensing, with DBPR listed as certificate holder. General, building, and residential contractors: $300,000 bodily injury and $50,000 property damage. Other categories: $100,000 and $25,000.
- Most clients expect $1 million or more in general liability.
Professional licenses
- Electrical and alarm contractors are licensed by DBPR's Electrical Contractors' Licensing Board.
- Plumbing, HVAC (mechanical and air conditioning), roofing, and pool contractors are licensed by the CILB.
- Architects, engineers, and surveyors have their own licensing boards.
- Check license status with DBPR's online license search before hiring subcontractors.
These are Florida state and federal requirements. Cities and counties often add their own. Requirements and fees change — confirm with the agency before you apply. This is general information, not legal or tax advice.
Other Florida Business Types
Florida Food Business: Licenses and Permits
Food Business license, permit, tax, and insurance requirements for Florida LLCs, as bullet points with official links.
Florida Transportation Business: Licenses and Permits
Transportation license, permit, tax, and insurance requirements for Florida LLCs, as bullet points with official links.
Florida Ecommerce Business: Licenses and Permits
Ecommerce license, permit, tax, and insurance requirements for Florida LLCs, as bullet points with official links.
Florida Consulting & Freelance Business: Licenses and Permits
Consulting / Freelance license, permit, tax, and insurance requirements for Florida LLCs, as bullet points with official links.