To qualify for a G.B. license in Florida, candidates must meet specific criteria:

1. Experience: Applicants need at least four years of experience in the construction industry. This experience should be in a supervisory role or as a foreman, journeyman, or contractor. Educational credits can substitute for up to three years of experience.

2. Examination: Passing the Florida General Building Contractor Examination is mandatory. This comprehensive test evaluates candidates’ knowledge of construction techniques, building codes, safety regulations, and business practices.

3. Financial Stability: Applicants must demonstrate financial stability and responsibility, including submitting credit reports and financial statements.

4. Insurance: Proof of workers’ compensation insurance coverage or an exemption certificate is required.

Meeting these criteria ensures that candidates possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to successfully navigate the responsibilities and challenges of obtaining and maintaining a General Building Contractor License in Florida.

Section 489.115(3), Florida Statutes, provides for certification by endorsement for any applicant who:

(a) (Option A) Meets the requirements for certification as set forth in this section; has passed a national, regional, state, or United States territorial licensing examination that is substantially equivalent to the examination required by this part; and has satisfied the
requirements set forth in s. 489.111 (please note that all NASCLA endorsement applicants must select Option A);

(b) (Option B) Holds a valid license to practice contracting issued by another state or territory of the United States, if the criteria for issuance of such license were substantially equivalent to Florida’s current certification criteria;(c)

(Option C) Has held a valid, current license to practice contracting issued by another state or territory of the United States for at least 10 years before the date of the application provided that the license is currently active or was active within the last 2 years. The license type must be the same or similar as the license type being applied for.

Applicants who wish to apply for endorsement using the examination administered by the National Association of State Contractor Licensing Agencies (“NASCLA”) must also pass the Florida Business and Finance exam and attest to having passed an examination covering the Florida Building Code.

     • Please note this option is only available to applicants applying for licensure as a Certified General Contractor, a Certified Building Contractor, or a Certified Residential Contractor.

The endorsement application is for individuals who are licensed in another state and wish to obtain licensure in Florida without taking the state certification examination. Please note that endorsement application requirements relying on a comparison of a state specific test are very stringent and rarely approved by the Construction Industry Licensing Board. Those individuals wishing to obtain licensure in Florida by endorsement should contact the Construction Industry Licensing Board for more information. Please call the Customer Contact Center at 850-487-1395.