New construction starts are on the rise, which makes it a good time to become a contractor in Florida.
New housing starts in Florida have been booming in 2017, with starts in central Florida up 15.6 percent in the first quarter and by 14.4 percent in the second quarter, according to MetroStudy, which reports on Florida construction every 90 days. This means it is a good time to think about becoming a residential contractor in Florida. Certain parameters and educational requirements must be met to obtain a contractor’s license. Afterward, continuing education courses are required to renew the license every two years. The most convenient way to meet educational requirements is through an online contractor school that has been preapproved by the Florida licensing board.
Florida Qualifications to Take the Contractor Exam
The Construction Industry Licensing Board falls under the jurisdiction of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. The individual qualifying for the Florida exam has to be a minimum of 18 years old. One of the following requirements must be met for the educational requirements.
- A 4-year degree awarded by an accredited college that is related to the construction field. (This must be no fewer than three years of college credits and one year of related experience in the industry that can be proven.)
- Two years of accredited college level courses, along with one year experience as a workman and one year as a foreman. Work experience must be proven.
- At least three years of college-level courses from an accredited college and one year experience working as a foreman. Work experience must be proven.
- Four years work experience as a workman or a foreman. A minimum of one year must have been working in the capacity of a foreman.
- One year of accredited college level courses, one year working as a foreman and two years of experience as a worker.
- Applicant holds a registered contractor’s license from Florida or is actively certified.
Florida offers numerous ways to qualify for a contractor license.
Florida Options for Veterans to Qualify
Last year, military vets became eligible to become licensed Florida contractors more easily by applying their military experience toward the educational requirements. Up to three years military experience can be applied toward the four years of experience required under the Florida CILB, however, the experience does not have to be in the construction field. Veterans who wish to become licensed Florida contractors may apply by submitting a Veteran Fee Waiver and Military Service Verification Form by clicking here. In addition, vets must complete the licensure application form for the appropriate license. Prior military members or members of the Florida National Guard may apply for a waiver of the fee, or request reimbursement or a discount.
Registration as a Florida Contractor
Florida contractors have the option to register as individual contractors, as a qualifying business or even add an additional business if they are already registered. Registration requires a certificate of competency, fingerprinting, a background check and must meet insurance requirements for property damage and liability.
Completing Continuing Education at an Online Contractor School
PDH Contractor Academy offers convenient continuing education courses designed to satisfy the 14-hour educational requirements for relicensing in Florida. The added bonus is that these courses are of offered at substantial cost savings. Our convenient course booklets are preapproved by the Florida CILB and make it easy to study anywhere and at any time it is convenient. When the courses have been passed successfully, we report the results to the CILB for you and supply you with a certificate for your own files. It doesn’t matter where a contractor is located in the state. Completing the required Florida educational requirements through PDH makes it easy. Start a course or learn more by clicking here.