How to Get Your
Florida Handyman License
Your complete guide to becoming a licensed handyman in Florida. Learn about requirements, exams, costs, and the step-by-step process to launch your handyman career in the growing repair and maintenance industry.
Florida Handyman License Quick Facts
Minimum Age
18 years
Credit Score Required
660 or higher
License Fee
$149 - $309
Licensing Body
DBPR - CILB
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
14 hours/renewal
A handyman's service is always in demand in any state, and Florida is no exception. So, if you have been thinking about becoming a licensed handyman in Florida, then you have landed on the right page. Do you know the handyman market has expanded by 2.9% in 2022, and it will continue to expand until 2028? In the next three years, the industry will touch new heights and will bring many opportunities. That is why now is the perfect time to get a handyman license and start a handyman business, given the growing reliance on outsourcing household projects, maintenance, and repairs.
Who Provides Handyman Licenses in Florida?
Florida Licensing Authority
Construction Industry Licensing Board
CILBIssues contractor licenses valid throughout Florida under the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)
Reasons You Need a Handyman License in Florida
In some instances, you can perform a task without a business license. But still, it is not encouraged to work as a contractor without a valid Florida handyman license. You may be subjected to fines or criminal charges if caught working illegally. Despite your knowledge of how to fix a pipe and put up walls, unless you possess a license, you can't work, regardless of how skilled you are at your job.
Key Benefits
Why Get Licensed?
Credibility
Having a proper handyman business license and insurance increases the likelihood that your clients will trust you.
Key Requirements
- Demonstrates dedication and compliance
- Builds client confidence
- Shows professional commitment
Get Paid Better
As a licensed contractor in Florida, you can earn more than you normally would as a general contractor.
Key Requirements
- Clients willing to pay premium rates
- Remove earnings cap
- Access to higher-value projects
It's the Law
A Florida general contractor should have a license to set up a handyman business legally.
Key Requirements
- Comply with city ordinances
- Avoid fines and penalties
- Legal protection
Get More Customers
Customers increasingly depend on online reviews and social media to find businesses with sound business practices.
Key Requirements
- Stand out from competition
- Professional credibility
- Marketing advantage
Boost Your Business
Talking about your earnings and whether you get paid on time or not, you can use InvoiceOwl, which allows you to send invoices and estimates on time so that you can get paid faster. You can stay updated about your finance in just a few clicks.
Types of Contractor Licenses in Florida
License Types Available
Choose Your License Path
Certified General Contractor
Work throughout the entire state of Florida with a certified contractor license.
Key Requirements
- Valid for statewide work
- Issued by CILB
- Most comprehensive license type
Registered General Contractor
Perform work in a particular jurisdiction with a registered license.
Key Requirements
- Local jurisdiction only
- Issued by local authority
- More limited scope
Choosing Your License Type
Becoming a Florida contractor includes either becoming certified or registering as a contractor. If you plan to work across the entire state, you'll need to become state-certified. Whether you wish to work solely at the state level or only on a local level, you will need the appropriate certification from your licensing authority.
Requirements to Get Florida Handyman License
General Contractor Requirements
Florida Handyman License Requirements
1Basic Eligibility
Minimum requirements to apply
Basic Eligibility
Minimum requirements to apply
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Submit credit report with at least 660 credit score (surety bonds can be purchased if score is lower)
- Pass fingerprinting and background check
- Meet continuing education requirements
2Insurance Requirements
Required coverage
Insurance Requirements
Required coverage
- General liability and property damage insurance coverage under local jurisdictions
- Workers' compensation insurance within 30 days of receiving license (or apply for exemption)
- Maintain insurance throughout license period
3Examination Requirements
Testing and certification
Examination Requirements
Testing and certification
- Pass the Florida Construction Exam
- Complete contractor license application
- Pay required contractor application and license fees
Handyman License Costs in Florida
CILB Fees
Florida Contractor License Fees
| License Type | Exam Fee | License Fee | Renewal Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Contractor (May 1 - Aug 31, odd year) | — | $249 - $300 | Varies |
| Certified Contractor (Sep 1 - Apr 30, even year) Prorated fee | — | $149 - $200 | Varies |
| Registered Contractor (May 1 - Aug 31, odd year) | — | $309 | Varies |
| Registered Contractor (Sep 1 - Apr 30, even year) Prorated fee | — | $209 | Varies |
Business License for Florida
Business licenses are required for organizations that receive payment for their services. The minimum fee for registering an LLC in Florida is $125. It is highly recommended to consult an attorney or accountant to determine the best form of business entity for your company.
Steps to Get Your Florida Handyman License
Step-by-Step Guide
Your Path to Becoming a Licensed Handyman
Select the Right Type of Contractor's License
Decide between becoming state-certified (work statewide) or registered (work in specific jurisdiction). The Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) under the Florida DBPR issues your general contractor license.
Complete the Licensing Application
Begin by completing a handyman license application, proofread it carefully, and pay the processing fee.
Prepare for the Exam
The exam consists of multiple choice questions focusing on both theoretical and practical aspects of the job. Get a study guide from your state licensing board to familiarize yourself with the material.
Florida DBPR ResourcesTake the Examination
Schedule your exam with the local licensing authority. Bring an ID card and any other required materials. The board determines pass or failure after you complete your exam.
Provide Fingerprints and Background Checks
Some licensing requirements include providing thumbprints, paying a processing fee for fingerprinting, and completing a criminal record check. A criminal record doesn't automatically disqualify you, but may require a written explanation.
Obtain Required Insurance
Secure general liability insurance, property damage insurance, and workers' compensation insurance (if you have employees) before receiving your license.
Congratulations! You're Licensed!
Once you pass your exam and submit all necessary documentation and fees, your contractor's license will be issued, and you can start working as a handyman safely and legally.
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Start Your FREE TrialRenewing Your General Contractor License
General contractors in Florida must renew their licenses every two years. The requirement for continuing education at renewal is 14 hours, and you must complete them by the due date.
Required for Renewal
Continuing Education Requirements
114-Hour Continuing Education
At least one hour on each topic
14-Hour Continuing Education
At least one hour on each topic
- Business practices
- Rules and laws
- Florida building codes
- Safety at work
- Workers' compensation rights and responsibilities
Penalties for Unlicensed Work in Florida
Important Legal Information
Unlicensed general contractors can be fined $5,000 and jailed for up to one year (felony). Contractors with felony warrants are not permitted to take the exam. A misdemeanor conviction for providing contractor services without a license can result in fines and jail terms of up to $1,000.
Moreover, homeowners hiring an unlicensed contractor can face a $1,000 fine if they include him in the sales agreement. Therefore, getting a Florida general contractor's license is worth the effort.
What Kind of Insurance Does a Handyman Need in Florida?
Whether you need a license or not, handyman insurance is always a good idea. Insurance coverage may include the following types:
Protect Your Business
Essential Insurance Types
Worker's Compensation Insurance
Florida may require that you obtain workers' compensation insurance for your handyman business, depending on how many employees you have.
Key Requirements
- Covers employee wages if injured at work
- Covers medical expenses for work injuries
- Required based on employee count
General Liability Insurance
Handymen almost have to have general liability insurance. This insurance provides coverage for injuries and property damage.
Key Requirements
- Covers injuries to non-employees
- Protects against property damage claims
- Required for license
Tools and Equipment Insurance
When you have tools and equipment insurance, your gear will be covered if damaged or stolen.
Key Requirements
- Protects your investment in tools
- Covers theft and damage
- Essential for mobile businesses
Commercial Auto Insurance
Commercial auto insurance protects you from medical expenses, towing, and repair costs related to accidents when you drive to job sites.
Key Requirements
- Covers vehicle accidents
- Includes towing and repairs
- Medical expense coverage
Additional Insurance Options
Commercial property insurance will cover your business building or equipment if damaged or vandalized. This is especially important if you have a physical office or storage location.
Are Florida Handyman Required to Have Business Insurance?
For handymen in Florida to work in the state, they are likely to need both General Liability insurance and Workers' Compensation insurance. A general contractor must be covered by General Liability insurance (also referred to as property damage insurance and public liability insurance) in order to obtain a license to operate. A copy of your insurance policy will be required when you apply for a job.
Workers' compensation insurance is required whenever you have employees. Subcontracting with another company may also require that you have a subcontracting policy in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Florida contractor license types?
General contractors in Florida can apply for two types of licenses from the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board:
- Certified General Contractor License - Allows you to work throughout the entire state if you hold a certified license in Florida
- Registered General Contractor License - Allows you to perform work in a particular jurisdiction with a registered license
What is the easiest contractor's license to get in Florida?
Getting a Florida Residential Contractor License is the simplest way to obtain a contractor's license. As a result, there are fewer questions on the exams. Although, the process for obtaining the license is similar to that of the license for general contractors and builders.
In what ways should I prepare for the Florida general contractor exam?
A Florida State Construction Exam must be passed before an applicant can obtain a license as a certified contractor. Professional Testing, Inc. administers this test. Taking and passing this exam is a prerequisite for starting the application process.
Get yourself a study guide from your state licensing board to familiarize yourself with the exam material as soon as possible.
What if you do not have a handyman License?
Florida imposes serious penalties for working outside the scope of handyman services without the correct contractor's license:
- First offense: Up to a year of probation, imprisonment, or a fine of up to $1,000
- Felony charges: Up to five years in prison or probation, as well as a fine of up to $5,000 if committed again
- Homeowners: Can face a $1,000 fine for hiring an unlicensed contractor
What credit score do I need for a Florida handyman license?
You need to submit a credit report with at least a 660 credit score. When your score is lower than this, surety bonds can be purchased to meet the requirement. The state provides a listing of credit reporting agencies for the convenience of applicants.
How often do I need to renew my Florida contractor license?
General contractors in Florida must renew their licenses every two years. You are required to complete 14 hours of continuing education by the renewal due date, covering business practices, rules and laws, Florida building codes, safety at work, and workers' compensation rights and responsibilities.
Conclusion
It may seem challenging to obtain a license for a general contractor. If you follow the above guide, you are sure to become a general contractor quickly and easily. Make sure you follow the application steps correctly and meet the requirements. In this way, you can obtain your general contractor license quickly.
Grow Your Handyman Business
Once you get a license in Florida and become a professional handyman to get jobs, all you need is InvoiceOwl to automate your pen-and-paper-based estimation and invoicing. Using InvoiceOwl, you can create estimates and invoices in just a few taps and keep track of your finance.
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