What must contractors have to legally operate within Florida?

To legally operate as a contractor in Florida, it is essential to hold a Certified General Contractor License. This license is issued by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and enables contractors to work on a wide range of construction projects across the state.

Obtaining this license requires meeting specific qualifications, including demonstrating relevant experience, completing the necessary examinations, and adhering to Florida’s construction laws and regulations. The licensure process ensures that contractors are knowledgeable about safety standards, building codes, and project management, which ultimately benefits the public and industry standards.

While a local business permit and commercial insurance may be necessary for specific business operations and protections, they do not equate to the licensing required to perform contracting work legally in Florida. Similarly, possessing a state identification card does not provide the legal authority to operate as a contractor. Therefore, the Certified General Contractor License is the key certification needed to operate within Florida’s construction industry legally.