Applications: Types and Assistance

We explain the difference between a Registered and Certified Contractor and answer a few key questions to explain the application process.

Application Assistance Offered

We provide help to ease your process filling out and submitting each of the following aplications


Initial and Retake Examination Application
Qualifying Additional Business Organization Application
Initial Issuance of Licensure for REGISTERED Contractor Application
Initial Issuance of Licensure for CERTIFIED Contractor Application
Certification by Endorsement Application
Change of Status from Individual to Qualifying Business Application
Change of Status from Qualifying Business to Individual Application
Change of Status from One Business Entity to Another Application
Change of Status from Inactive to Active Application
Change of Status from Active to Inactive Application
Financially Responsible Officer Application
Limited Non-Renewable Registration Application
Registration for Swimming Pool Specialty Contractor Practical Examiner
Reinstate Null and Void Certification or Registration Package Duplicate License Request
Request for Address or Name Change (not to be used for qualified business name change – see form DBPR 0080-CILB)
Request for Name Change for Construction Qualified Business Entities
Explanatory Information for Background Questions
General Explanatory Description

Application Process

We provide help to ease your process filling out and submitting each of the following aplications


  • Applicants can apply as Registered Contractors or Certified Contractors as classified by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
  • A Registered Contractor is an applicant that has taken and passed a local competency examination and can practice only within that locale.
  • A Certified Contractor is an applicant that has taken and passed an examination and can practice throughout Florida.


We answer some common questions about the process below:

Where can I order credit reports for my application?

Florida Licenses and Corporations, Inc. offers Personal and Business credit reports through a DBPR approved credit reporting agency.

Do I need to submit fingerprints with my Construction Trade Application?

Yes, As of November 1, 2007 all applications for initial licensure as construction contractors will be required to have a criminal background check performed by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. This requirement applies to applications for initial licensure, change of status, additional business, and endorsement. Each applicant will be required to submit electronic fingerprints through a department approved vendor. For fingerprinting appointment assistance or for more information regarding the new “Fingerprint Requirement” please contact our offices or go to www.pearsonvue.com

Will my application require a bond?

In certain instances the state may require that a surety bond be submitted along with your application. Please contact our offices and speak to one of our knowledgeable consultants to be sure if a bond is needed in your particular situation. Notice: As of November 1, 2007 All Construction Certification Applications submitted to the Florida DBPR that meet criteria for requiring a bond; the new bond amount will be set @100,000.00 Click here for a listing of Bonding Agencies

Do I have to register for my license locally?

Yes, depending on your particular location. Certain municipalities will require Licensed contractors to obtain a local business tax receipt or (occupational license). Also you may be required to register your license within the county you are doing business and/or obtain a city license or (municipal license) in order to pull permits. Certificate of use/occupancy, DERM Permit, Home Office Permit, City Business License may also be required. If you are unsure what type of registration will be required for your business Florida Licenses and Corporations, Inc. offers business consulting and application assistance throughout the State of Florida. For more information about local license requirements please contact your local government or contact our offices for assistance.

How long will it take for my application to be approved?

Don’t be fooled by those “other” Licensing Service Companies claiming to have a “guaranteed 2 week turn-around time” or claiming to have “special contacts” in the DBPR to expedite your licensing process faster for their companies “preferred clients”. Unfortunately, these types of companies are simply promising services they cannot provide in an effort to get your business. While this “bait & hook “sales tactic is all too common it is neither professional nor beneficial to the client. Remember, If it sounds too good to be true ….It probably is! The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation is a State Government Agency therefore it is prohibited by Florida Law for any business or vendor to receive preferential treatment. All applications are processed in the order they are received by the state. Once your application is received the average wait time is generally 30-45 BUSINESS DAYS for DBPR to issue a response, although it can take longer depending on the individual circumstances of the application and workload volume of the DBPR. Technically the individual reviewing the application has up to 45 business days to issue a response. Upon retaining our services, our company acts as an appointed third party representative to ensure your application and supporting documents are expedited properly to reduce your wait time and help avoid deficiencies in the licensing process.

Am I required to obtain liability insurance?

Yes, All ACTIVE State Construction License Applicants are required to obtain Commercial Liability Insurance. A copy of The Certificate of Liability Insurance will be required as proof of insurance to be included with all applications submitted to The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. For more information about State license insurance limit and coverage requirements or the various types of insurances offered through our company please contact our offices.

Florida Businesses and Contractor Information

Tips For Hiring a Company To Help You Get Licensed

Do they have a commercial office location? Are they licensed to operate a business in their city? Do they have regular business hours? Is the staff experienced? We help you consider these questions before you hire someone to help you take the next step.

Florida State Contractor Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prepare? Do I register? What do I do once I've passed my exam? We help you consider these important questions and more with our in depth knowledge of the process.

Applications: Types and Assistance

We explain the difference between a Registered and Certified Contractor and answer a few key questions to explain the application process.

Additional Requirements for State Licensed Contractors

From Workers Compensation to Continuing Education Requirements, we explain the necessary requirements to stay properly licensed and keep everything running smoothly in your contracting career.

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