How to Become a General Contractor in Florida
In Florida, a General Contractor license typically requires a state exam, a 70% passing score, and a $199 exam fee.
Bids and manages construction projects. Most states license contractors through a state board; requirements range from registration to a written exam (e.g. California CSLB). Requirements change — always confirm with Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) — Construction Industry Licensing Board, Certified General Contractor (CGC) before paying.
Licensing steps in Florida
- 1Meet the basic requirements
Minimum age 18; a criminal background check is required.
- 2Complete pre-license education
Required training hours are not published here — check with the state board for the current figure.
- 3Register and pass the exam
The exam is administered by Professional Testing (Pearson VUE); you need 70% to pass.
- 4Pay fees and get licensed
Exam fee $199 · application $249 · license $209
- 5Stay current
License renews every 2 years with 14 hours of continuing education.
General Contractor requirements — Florida at a glance
| Education hours | — |
| Exam vendor | Professional Testing (Pearson VUE) |
| Questions (national/state) | — / — |
| Passing score | 70% |
| Exam fee | $199 |
| Application fee | $249 |
| License fee | $209 |
| First-attempt pass rate | not published |
| Retake rule | — |
| Renewal | every 2 years · 14 CE |
| Reciprocity | NASCLA-accredited exam accepted for trade parts; trade-exam waivers with some states (e.g. NC, LA, MS) |
Official source: Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) — Construction Industry Licensing Board, Certified General Contractor (CGC) ↗
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get a General Contractor license in Florida?
After completing the required education, most candidates need 4-12 weeks of study before the exam. Total timeline depends on scheduling.
How hard is the General Contractor exam in Florida?
Official first-attempt pass rates are not published by Florida; check the state board.
What does the General Contractor license cost in Florida?
The exam fee is $199, the application fee is $249, and the license fee is $209
Can I transfer my General Contractor license to Florida?
Reciprocity: NASCLA-accredited exam accepted for trade parts; trade-exam waivers with some states (e.g. NC, LA, MS).
Plan your General Contractor licensing in Florida
This guide is informational and not legal advice. Requirements change frequently — verify all figures with Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) — Construction Industry Licensing Board, Certified General Contractor (CGC) (retrieved 2026-08-20).