Interested in pursuing a career in construction? The average annual salary in America for a construction contractor is just a little over $100,000. Being a licensed and insured contractor is required in the state of Florida.
How to get a contractor’s license in Florida sounds alarmingly difficult, but it’s not. In fact, becoming licensed boosts creditability as a contractor, which helps to secure more clients and ensures payment. Traditional contractor licensing through the many textbooks can take forever, but there are other methods to prepare for the exam and become licensed and ready to take jobs sooner.
Licensed and working masonry contractor
Don’t think a contractor’s license is necessary? Think again. For projects like building a carport, sunroom, or repairing a roof, and installation of major heating and cooling units for payment does require a contractor’s construction license in the state of Florida. And, without a contractor’s license, expect some heavy fines ranging up to $5,000 plus court fees.
Ready to get your contractor’s license? Here’s just an overview of what it would take to prep and obtain your contractor’s license in Florida.
Pre-eligibility requirements for a contractor’s license
Two ways to successfully obtain a contractor’s license falls under Florida’s state rules. For instance, the minimum age requirement to take the test is 18, and the requirement of schooling or experience is derived from two major necessities.
Studying for the contractor’s exam
Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree or three years of college and one year of experience related to construction. Or, they may have one to four years working as a foreman or workman, and one to three years of college courses from an accredited school.
Time invested for the exam
It’s important to study thoroughly before taking the contractor’s exam–especially since the time allotted for the exam is only six and half hours. The exam is taken on a computer though some individuals may choose to take the test via pencil and paper.
Various methods of learning
Different options exist when it comes to studying for the contractor’s exam. Options include:
- Hardback textbooks
- Online studying
- Video courses
The most popular method is online studying. Hardback textbooks can increase costs associated with prepping and taking the exam. The Miami-Dade County Contractor rules state that the contractor test is created to test the knowledge of what an experienced contractor should already know before beginning in construction. Reviewing materials that discuss a contractor’s job in detail or having previous experience is a plus.
Examination costs
The costs for the examination vary depending on what time of the year the potential candidate applies. For instance, applying for the contractor’s exam during mid-summer months drives the cost higher. But, the exam fee is less expensive if applying during early fall to early summer.
Miami-Dade County does caution candidates against applying during a non-something season. Applying outside of these particular times can delay the application, and candidates may need to apply again.
Where to get study material?
There are many websites that provide study materials for contractors. But, only a select few are appropriately licensed to provide the right materials to prepare candidates for the exam.
Eager to get practice tests and good, affordable study materials taught by contractor experts? Head on over to PDHContractors.com and begin the journey receiving your Florida contractor’s license.