If you’re looking to get your Florida contractor’s license, you probably have a lot of questions. Our job as a Florida contractor licensing company is to help contractors get their licenses. The process can be complicated. There’s a lot of deadlines to remember and information to have in order. It can be easy to forget something.
We understand the stress the process can bring, so our team wanted to share with you some frequently asked questions (FAQ) that we get asked often. These questions/answers will help you with information for the pre and post-license process.
Pre-License Questions:
HOW LONG ARE MY CONTRACTOR TEST SCORES VALID?
For construction licenses, test scores are valid for four years. For electrical licenses, test scores are valid for two years.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A REGISTERED AND A CERTIFIED CONTRACTOR’S LICENSE?
A “certified contractor” is a state-wide contractor licensed at the state level. A “registered contractor” is a contractor who has a county license (or multiple) who then has to register that license with the state because it was a major trade. Registered contractors can only work in the county in which they have a competency card.
CAN I USE OUT-OF-STATE / OUT-OF-COUNTRY EXPERIENCE?
Yes, if it was legal experience that meets the experience requirements. When it comes to contractor’s licenses, experience is valid no matter where it occurred, because experience is extremely important.
IF I HAVE A TROUBLED PAST, CAN I STILL GET A CONTRACTOR’S LICENSE?
It depends. The severity, the number of incidences, and timeline of the incidences will be taken into account. Talk to our team members to get more information on this.
Post-License Questions:
HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO RENEW MY LICENSE AND/OR COMPLETE CONTINUING EDUCATION?
In the state of Florida, a certified contractor needs to complete 14 hours of board-approved continuing education every two years by August 31 of an even-numbered year. For registered contractors, they need to renew in odd-numbered years.
CAN I QUALIFY A JOINT VENTURE WITH MY EXISTING LICENSE?
No, you would have to apply to qualify the joint venture just like you would any other business.
DO I NEED TO UPDATE THE BOARD IF OWNERSHIP OR OFFICERS CHANGE?
No, the only time this information is provided or updated to the board is when you’re submitting an application.
If you’re looking to get your Florida contractor’s license, renew your license, or upgrade your license, we can help! Ask us anything! We are happy to help! Contact us at 239-777-1028 or click our Florida Contractor License page or more information.