Considering becoming a licensed contractor in Florida? You need to know how to pass the Florida Contractor Exam to be able to work legally and expand your construction career.
This guide is going to take you through what to expect in regards of the exam process, cost factors, applying for the exam, and the best tips to aid your preparation.
1. What is the Florida Contractor Exam?
The Florida Contractor Exam is a state-imposed licensing test that aims to measure your construction, business, project management, and safety regulations. It guarantees that every contractor practicing abides by the legal and professional standards in Florida.
The General Contractor exam usually consists of several sections:
Business and Finance
Contract Administration
Project Management
Every section will examine your knowledge of the skills needed to deal with construction projects, financial management, adherence to building codes, and adherence to state laws.
2. Summary of the Cost of Florida Contractor Exam (Not the Specific Rates):
Although we will not look at specific rates, it would be worth knowing what factors play into the total expense of passing the Florida Contractor Exam. These normally involve:
Application Fees: If you apply to take the exam, you pay these fees to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
Exam Registration Fees: It is payable at the time of booking the various exam sections.
Preparation Materials: These include codes, books, practice exams, and a reference guide.
Exam Preparation Courses: Not Mandatory, however, highly advisable courses to enable you to prepare.
License Fees: You must pay these when you pass the test and want to get an official license.
Remember that fees may be different based on the type of license you are acquiring and whether you are sitting in the exam for the first or second time or even retaking one or all sections of the exam.
3. Florida Contractor Exam Application Process:
To begin taking the Florida Contractor Exam, it only takes several clear steps:
Identify the Correct Type of License
Florida has two general categories:
Certified Contractor License – statewide
Registered Contractor License- confined to local jurisdictions
Depending on the location of the operation and the mode of operation, select the license.
Eligibility Requirements
You must:
Be 18 years old or older
Possess pertinent work experience (typically 4 years)
Present a credit report and pass a background check
Provide financial stability evidence
Apply:
Applications are filed with the DBPR together with all supporting materials, including:
Work experience and References
Post-passing proof of insurance (after passing)
Background screening
Approval & Schedule the Exam
Once approved, you will be able to book your Florida Contractor Exam with an approved testing service. The majority of applicants take the exam through Pearson VUE.
4. Florida Contractor Exam Preparation Tips:
The Florida Contractor Exam will require good preparation to pass. Some of the strategies that can assist are:
Official Study Guides
Pay attention to such approved sources as the Florida Building Code, OSHA manuals, and books on financial management.
Use a Study Schedule
Divide your studying into small sessions. Be consistent and work on one idea at a time.
Take Exam Prep Classes:
Professional preparation courses may help to guide, provide practice tests, and offer strategies to enhance your performance.
Open-Book Techniques Practice
On some applications of the Florida Contractor Exam, books can be used. Become familiar with shortcuts to find the most important information in the exam.
Be Resolute & Concentrate
Practice helps to establish confidence. Practice test situations and study your errors to prevent them during the exam.
5. So What Happens After You Pass the Exam?
After you have successfully passed the Florida Contractor Exam, you will be required to:
Submit your licensing application (where not already done)
Pay the license fee
Present evidence of insurance
Register your business entity (in case it applies)
Remain abreast of continuing education needs
This is the starting point of your licensed contractor career in Florida!
Final Thoughts:
The Florida Contractor Exam appears to be difficult; however, by planning properly, having the necessary materials, and the right attitude, you will be able to pass and start a successful career. With the knowledge of the process, proper preparation, and adherence to the requirements by the state, you will be well on your way to becoming a successful contractor in Florida.
