5 Steps To Obtaining a General Contracting License in Florida

June 1 2023 - Are you planning on starting your own construction company? Getting a contractor license is the first step.

As a contractor, you know that starting your own company that deals with the housing market comes with a significant upfront investment. Licensed or not, you still need to get through the paperwork.

This article focuses on how to obtain a general contracting license in Florida. Not only does this protect you and those who work for your company, but it helps you navigate some of the unique hurdles in the Sunshine State.

1. Submit Application and Fees

Once you have gathered the necessary information and documentation to apply for your Florida General Contracting License, the next step is to complete the proper application and submit it along with the required fees.

The exact costs depend on the type of license you wish to obtain.

2. Provide Insurance Information

To have a certified building contractor license, one must first provide insurance information. This includes providing proof of personal and/or business liability insurance coverage. The coverage must be in effect for the license term and must meet the statutory amount of coverage required.

For a general contractor in Florida, this is at least $100,000 public liability, $50,000 property damage and $25,000 personal injury, $300,000 aggregate, and the required workers' compensation insurance coverage ($100,000 per accident to $500,000 aggregate). A contractor can provide a copy of their insurance policy which must be dated, have a stated expiration date, and include the insurance company's name.

3. Provide Proof of Surety Bond

A surety bond is an agreement between three parties: you as the contractor, a surety company, and the state of Florida. The surety company will guarantee that you will abide by the regulations of the state, such as payment of all your obligations to the state. The surety company will be responsible for any losses incurred.

The state will require proof of the bond by providing a Certificate of Insurance or a Power of Attorney to the surety company. In addition, the state may require additional paperwork, such as a Contractor's Quality Control Plan or a Statement of Work.

4. Take and Pass the Licensing Exam

Taking and passing the licensing exam to obtain a general contracting license in Florida is a key step in the process. Applicants must complete the three-hour exam with a passing grade of 75 or higher to move on to the next step in the process. Applicants who fail the exam must wait three months to retake it.

There are courses for general contractors that you can go for. With this, you will be able to get more knowledge and pass your exam confidently.

5. Renew and Maintain License a General Contracting License in Florida

Once all requirements are met, the contractor will receive a license number. This number must then be renewed every two years by filing a renewal form and paying any applicable fees. In addition, all future contracts must include this license number in order to remain valid.

Are You Ready to Get the License You Need?

Becoming a general contractor in Florida requires you to fulfill numerous requirements as set out by the state. With the right preparation, commitment, and dedication, you can be well on your way to obtaining your general contracting license in Florida.

Don't wait. Take action today and get started on the path to becoming a licensed contractor in Florida. With this, you will be able to create Florida structures according to the laws.

Be sure to check out the rest of our website for more tips.

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