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Which Florida General Contractor License Is Right for You?
Not sure which license to pursue? We help general contractors choose the right path based on their experience and business goals. Whether you want to build high-rises or residential homes, choosing the right GC license in Florida is critical for your scope of work.
General Contractor (CGC) ★ RECOMMENDED
| Scope | Unlimited — any type of construction |
|---|---|
| Building Limit | No limit on size, height, or value |
| Exams Required | 3 exams (CA + PM + B&F) |
| Experience | 4 years minimum |
| Avg. Study Time | 8–12 weeks |
| Earning Potential | $75K–$200K+/year |
| License Coverage | Statewide (all 67 counties) |
Building Contractor (CBC)
| Scope | Commercial buildings up to 3 stories |
|---|---|
| Building Limit | 3 stories maximum |
| Exams Required | 2 exams (Trade + B&F) |
| Experience | 4 years minimum |
| Avg. Study Time | 6–10 weeks |
| Earning Potential | $60K–$150K+/year |
| License Coverage | Statewide (all 67 counties) |
Residential Contractor (CRC)
| Scope | Single/two/three-family dwellings |
|---|---|
| Building Limit | 2 stories, residential only |
| Exams Required | 2 exams (Trade + B&F) |
| Experience | 4 years minimum |
| Avg. Study Time | 4–8 weeks |
| Earning Potential | $50K–$120K+/year |
| License Coverage | Statewide (all 67 counties) |
Tip: For a full breakdown of what is covered in the technical exams for these categories, visit our General Contractors exam detail page.
Our recommendation: The General Contractor license (CGC) gives you maximum flexibility — bid on any project, any size, anywhere in Florida. Already hold a Building or Residential license? Upgrade to GC with one additional exam.
Not sure which license to get?
Talk to one of our licensing advisors — we'll help you pick the right license and build a study plan.
5 Steps to Your Florida Contractor License — A Step-by-Step Guide
Over 100,000 contractors have used this process to get licensed with 1 Exam Prep. Most complete it in 3-6 months.
Florida General Contractor License Requirements: Experience & Education
Florida requires 4 years of verifiable construction experience. Not sure if you qualify? Our advisors review your background for free.
| Path | Work Experience | Education Credits | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Path 1 | 4 years (worker + foreman, min 1 yr foreman) | None required | 4 years |
| Path 2 | 1 year applicable experience | 4-year construction degree (= 3 yrs credit) | 4 years |
| Path 3 | 1 year as foreman | 3 years accredited college credits | 4 years |
| Path 4 | 1 year worker + 1 year foreman | 2 years accredited college credits | 4 years |
| Path 5 | 2 years worker + 1 year foreman | 1 year accredited college credits | 4 years |
| Path 6 | Hold CRC or CBC license 1+ year | N/A — upgrade path | Varies |
How Much Does a General Contractor License in Florida Cost? (2026)
Budget $1,500 to $5,000+ total depending on your exam prep package. Financing available on all 1 Exam Prep packages.
Budgeting for your contractor license in Florida is essential. Note that DBPR application fees change based on the year you apply. Because 2026 is an even year, fees are lower if you apply before April 30th ($149).
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Fees (3 exams) | $236 | $78.75 × 3 for GC |
| Exam Prep Package | $395 – $3,699 | Online course to Ultimate |
| Reference Books | Included | In Premium & Ultimate packages |
| CILB Application Fee | $249 | One-time fee to DBPR |
| Credit Report | $30 – $50 | Included in Ultimate Package |
| Fingerprinting | $50 – $75 | Background check required |
| Insurance | Varies | GL + WC required |
| TOTAL ESTIMATED | $1,500 – $5,000+ | Investment in your career |
Save with the Ultimate Package: The GC Ultimate Exam Prep ($3,699) bundles everything — highlighted books, online courses, live classes, and application assistance with credit reports. The $1,300 refundable book deposit comes back when you return books. Financing available.
Certified vs. Registered: Going Statewide with a GC License in Florida
Florida offers two license classes. We strongly recommend Certified for maximum earning potential and business growth.
| Certified (Recommended) | Registered | |
|---|---|---|
| Issued By | State CILB | County/municipality |
| Coverage | All 67 Florida counties | Issuing jurisdiction only |
| Exam | State Pearson VUE exams | Local competency exam |
| Flexibility | Work anywhere in FL | Separate license per county |
| Large Projects | Qualified for all sizes | Limited to local projects |
| Reciprocity | Can qualify out-of-state | No statewide reciprocity |
| Renewals | One state renewal | Separate per county |
Florida General Contractor License FAQ
To get a Florida general contractor license, you must be 18 or older, prove four years of verifiable construction experience, and pass the three-part state exam. Afterward, submit an application with a background check and credit report to the DBPR, and secure the required liability insurance.
The main requirements for a Florida GC license include being at least 18, demonstrating four years of construction experience (a 4-year degree can substitute for three years), passing three state exams, and proving financial stability with a credit score of 660 or higher.
Getting a general contractor license in Florida typically costs between $1,500 and $5,000. This estimate includes $236 for state exam fees, a $249 DBPR application fee, background checks, credit reports, and the variable costs of exam prep courses, reference books, and insurance.
Yes, you can get a Florida contractor license with a felony. A criminal conviction does not automatically disqualify you. The Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) reviews applications with criminal records on a case-by-case basis to determine eligibility.
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