Good news for out-of-state contractors! Florida now offers license reciprocity for those licensed in other states for 10+ years, skipping the exam. If you are an out-of-state contractor and you are looking to apply for the same license you currently have in the State of Florida then this reciprocity 10 year endorsement is just for you.
This new legislation covers contractors meeting the eligibility criteria outlined in Chapter 489 of Florida Statutes.
Continue reading for more details on how to apply for contractor license reciprocity in Florida.
11 requirements for Florida contractor license 10 year endorsement reciprocity.
To tap into the benefits of the recently introduced statute, individuals possessing licenses from states other than Florida must meet a series of prerequisites to secure a Florida contractor license:
1. 10-Year License:
To showcase your enduring commitment to your trade, it’s essential to possess a valid license for a minimum of 10 years, specifically in the category that aligns with your intended Florida application.
2. Recent Activity:
Demonstrating your sustained engagement, your existing license should have shown activity within the past 2 years, underlining your ongoing involvement in your field.
3. Education Requirements:
Notably, certified General, Building, Residential, and Roofing contractors must complete a mandatory 2-hour course focused on the Florida Building Code and wind mitigation techniques. This educational element ensures your familiarity with Florida-specific regulations and construction nuances.
4. Filing Fee:
As part of the application process, a filing fee of $350 must be submitted to the Florida Division of Business and Professional Regulation.
5. Electronic Fingerprints:
Obtain electronic fingerprints from a vendor approved by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. This step contributes to thorough background verification.
6. Credit Report:
A personal credit report is required, and if your credit score falls below 660, you might need to secure a contractor’s bond to showcase financial responsibility. This bond requirement can be halved by enrolling in a 14-hour financial responsibility course from an approved institution. List of approved credit reporting agencies from the State of Florida.
7. Business Credit Report:
In scenarios where you plan to operate in Florida through a business entity, it’s mandatory to submit a business credit report. List of approved business credit reporting agencies from the State of Florida.
8. Business Registration:
Ensuring seamless alignment, registering your business entity in Florida is crucial. The name on your license must accurately correspond with the names on your contracts and advertisements to prevent any inconsistencies.
9. Security Clearance:
A background check forms an integral part of the process, verifying compliance with regulations.
10. Liability Insurance:
Safeguarding against unforeseen liabilities, it’s essential to possess commercial general liability insurance with appropriate coverage.
11. Workers’ Compensation:
Unless you qualify for exemption, procuring workers’ compensation insurance is imperative. This ensures comprehensive protection for your employees in case of workplace accidents.
By meticulously adhering to these comprehensive criteria and seamlessly navigating each step, non-Florida contractors can confidently pursue a Florida contractor license, facilitating their integration into the dynamic construction landscape of the state.
Once your application is process for the Florida License Reciprocity 10yr Endorsement you can view your application on the Florida DBPR.
This is great to see that Florida is adding easier way for contractors to transition to their state. Has anyone submitted an application yet and been approved?