Can a Felony Prevent me from Getting a Contractor's License in Florida?

An individual is still able to obtain a Contractor license, even having a felony on their record. Below you will see more information on criminal offenses used as bases for denial of License to practice contracting.

Felony Charges That do not Affect You from Getting a Contractor License

Animal Control Issues (or charges related to animals)
Assault (Simple)
Battery (Simple)
Boat Registration Issues
Burglary (Single occurrence)
Careless Driving
Carrying Weapon Openly
Cultivation of Marijuana
Damage to Property
Disorderly Conduct
Distributing Alcohol or Cigarettes to a Minor
Driving with Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled/Delinquent License

DUI/DWI
Minor Car Accidents
Narcotic Equipment Possession
Open Container/ Public Intoxication
Petit Theft/ Shoplifting
Possession of Fake Identification
Possession of Marijuana/Drugs/Paraphernalia
Prostitution
Reckless Driving
Resisting an Officer Without Violence
Traffic Offenses
Trespassing
Underage Drinking

Felony charges which result in Denial when obtaining a Contractor's License in Florida

Lewd/Lascivious Act Against A Child
Possession Of Dangerous Drugs
Possession Of Firearm By Felon

Details: Written by Leah R.; Published: July 9, 2020; Last Updated: June 14, 2022

Comments

# Gregory Eason 2020-08-12 14:34

Will a one time possession of cocaine, small amount, adjudication withheld, cause me to be denied a painting contractor license?

# Contractor Licensing Experts 2020-08-14 09:49

No, that type of charge will not deny you from getting a Contractor License.

# Bill G. 2023-01-03 15:09

I have a charge of marijuana & cocaine delivery 17 years ago & after getting my fingerprints it shows "Dangerous drugs"
I've passed all the exams & requirements so if I'm not approved this will be devastating

# Sharilyn Baez 2023-01-03 16:31

Hello Bill,
Per the DBPR the three charges that can prevent you from obtaining a contractor license are the following:
Lewd/Lascivious Act Against A Child
Possession Of Dangerous Drugs
Possession Of Firearm By Felon

You can still submit the application and wait for a response from them. Remember it is up to the DBPR to approve or deny your application.

# Christopher Mundell 2023-03-16 13:23

hey good afternoon. Will possession of ammo by a state felon get your application denied

# KEVIN S. 2020-11-17 17:41

WILL DRUG TRAFFICKING OR GRAND THEFT GET YOU DENIED FOR CONTRACTOR LICENSE? ALL CHARGES ARE 12 YEARS OLD.

# Contractor Licensing Experts 2020-11-19 10:18

Hello Kevin,

I would recommend you to confirm with the State Licensing Board of Florida. Below I have provided you with the contact information.

Construction Industry Licensing Board
Customer Contact Center: 850.487.1395

# Mihail Miller 2021-02-18 23:39

How about a DUI/Manslaughter conviction. Can it prevent me from getting a contractor license in the State of Florida?

# Contractor Licensing Experts 2021-02-19 11:33

Good morning Mr.Miller,

If the charges against you are not construction-related, it shouldn't affect you. However, we recommend you contact the State Licensing Board. Below we have provided you the link to the contact information of the Construction Industry Licensing Board.

https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-licenses/licensing-contact-information.html

# Steven Sanfilippo 2021-04-14 19:34

A stipulation of my probation 15 years ago was that I couldn't be in the construction industry. I've done all the prison time and had my probation revoked. Should I be able to get my license back?
Thank you
Steven Sanfilippo

# Contractor Licensing Experts 2021-04-15 08:55

Hello Mr. Sanfilippo,

Since you've done time and had your probation revoked, there may be a chance for you to obtain your license. We still want you to contact the State Licensing Board of FL.
Construction Industry Licensing Board
Customer Contact Center: 850.487.1395

# Steven Sanfilippo 2021-12-20 11:01

I had probation revoked so that I'd be able to get my building license back and make restitution. Am I going to have a problem with this?

# Aengels G. 2021-12-21 09:03

Hello, Mr. Sanfilippo
As stated above, there may be a chance for you to obtain your license; you can contact The State Licensing Board of FL. The Felony Charges that do not affect You from getting a Contractor License are above.

# Andrew Neel 2021-03-15 02:08

Little possession of an ammunition
Which holes under session of a firearm stop me from getting my license?

# Contractor Licensing Experts 2021-03-15 09:38

Hello Andrew,

There could be a possibility, we would recommend you to contact the State Licensing Board. Below I have provided you with the contact information.

Construction Industry Licensing Board
Customer Contact Center: 850.487.1395

# Chrissy 2021-04-22 08:57

My husband and I are wanting to start our own renovation/construction business. We have plenty experience along with him being a licensed electrician. Our dilemma is our past...we both are convicted felons. With that being said I also need to know if there is any special grants or funding that can help us get our licenses and start up our business.

# Contractor Licensing Experts 2021-04-22 11:51

Hello Chrissy,

If the charges are not listed in the table above or construction-related charges, then you would be able to obtain the Contractor License. Of course, you may always confirm with the State Licensing Board, and below I have provided you the contact information.

Construction Industry Licensing Board
Customer Contact Center: 850.487.1395

# Robert Mills 2021-04-25 09:33

I am a convicted felon,money laundering was the charge but the underlying crime was fraud.
Can I qualify to get a license?

# Leah R. 2021-09-10 07:59

Although Fraud does not appear to be stated by the DBPR, I would recommend for you contact the state and verify these charges to see if you are eligible to get a license.

Below we have provided you the link to the contact information of the Construction Industry Licensing Board.

https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-licenses/licensing-contact-information.html

# Bexy 2021-05-10 11:45

Does de DBPR call the companies that you work for to check your experience? like let’s said that you applied and add 3 months extra of experience to one of the companies you worked for would they check on that ?

# Contractor Licensing Experts 2021-05-12 08:37

You would provide the information of your experience within the application. The State of Florida has the right to further question your experience and the information you have provided.

# Rikis 2021-08-05 19:46

Will felony charges bid tampering and unlawful compensation prevent me from getting my GC license?

# Leah R. 2021-08-23 08:34

An individual is still able to obtain a Contractor license, even having a felony on their record. Please read this article on criminal offenses used as bases for denial of a license to practice contracting.

https://www.contractorcampus.com/can-a-criminal-background-affect-me-from-getting-a-contractor-s-license-in-fl.html

# Leo 2022-09-20 20:07

I have With held adjudication. I have a concealed and carry permit. Am i able to obtain my contractor license?

# Sharilyn Baez 2022-09-21 13:28

Hello Leo,
You will still be able to obtain a Contractor License, we recommend that you contact the Licensing Department to confirm if they will issue you the license even though you have a withheld adjudication. In the link below, you can find the DBPR contact information.
https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-licenses/licensing-contact-information.html

# Rafael Soto jr 2021-09-06 18:40

I have multiple armed robberies can I still obtain my contracts license?

# Leah R. 2021-09-10 11:06

Although the stated charges are not listed above, I would recommend you contact the Construction Industry Licensing Board, since they are the ones who process your application.

Below we have provided you the link to the contact information of the Construction Industry Licensing Board.

https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-licenses/licensing-contact-information.html

# Jose Ramirez 2021-12-04 18:44

Can 2 duis affect me from getting a contractor license

# Stephanie M. 2021-12-07 10:18

Hello Jose Ramirez!
An individual is still able to obtain a Contractor license, even having a felony on their record. Please read this article on criminal offenses used as bases for denial of a license to practice contracting.

https://www.contractorcampus.com/can-a-criminal-background-affect-me-from-getting-a-contractor-s-license-in-fl.html

# R n 2021-12-28 19:26

If i pleaded guilty to trafficking drugs but did not do any prison time and was set on probation. Is there a possibility to get a license?. Also a conspiracy to traffic. Was all on the same date.

# Aengels G. 2021-12-29 08:52

Hello R,
Felony Charges like Narcotic Equipment Possession, and
Possession of Marijuana/Drugs/Paraphernaliado does not Affect You from Getting a Contractor License, but We still want you to contact the State Licensing Board of FL.
Construction Industry Licensing Board
Customer Contact Center: 850.487.1395

# Debbie 2022-01-19 12:11

How long after a person is convicted of lewd and lascivious acts against children are their electrical license revoked?

# Idalia S. 2022-01-19 15:44

Hi Debbie! If you see above on this page, we have an actual list of the felony charges that will result in denial.

I would recommend you to confirm with the Licensing Board of Florida. Below I have provided you with the contact information.

Construction Industry Licensing Board
Customer Contact Center: 850.487.1395

# Archie 2022-02-15 18:12

Have a child abuse charge but don’t see it on the list will that stop me from getting a license

# Aengels G. 2022-02-16 11:35

Hi Archie,
Yes, a child abuse charge will result in Denial when obtaining a Contractor's License in Florida, which is at the top of the page under "Lewd/Lascivious Act Against A Child".

# Milly 2022-03-16 12:46

Would an aggravated assault result in a denial of a contracting license?

# Aengels G. 2022-03-16 14:46

Hello Milly,
As stated above, an Assault will not result in denial, but it will be up to the state to accept or deny any application.

# MICHELLE 2022-04-29 11:40

Will possession of Xanax (not prescribed) 10 pills, and he did drug court and it says Drug court on his record, will he be denied licensure?

# Sharilyn Baez 2022-04-29 13:12

Hello Michelle,
Per the information above, you will likely get denied. We recommend that you contact the DBPR. In the link below, you can find their contact information.
https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-licenses/licensing-contact-information.html

# Josey wales 2022-05-03 14:19

Will I be denied for a manslaughter charge?

# Aengels G. 2022-05-04 08:24

Hello Josey,
Although the stated charges are not listed above, we recommend you contact the State Licensing Board. Below we have provided you the link to the contact information of the Construction Industry Licensing Board for more information.

https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-licenses/licensing-contact-information.html

# Tony Keith 2022-05-07 18:51

Grand theft, burglary, constructive possession of firearm by felon, witness tampering and conspiracy to import heroin into usa. I guess I have no hopes of getting a contractors license right?

# Aengels G. 2022-05-09 09:24

Hello Tony,
As stated above, one of the Felony charges which result in Denial when obtaining a Contractor's License in Florida would be the possession of a firearm by felon, but we recommend you contact the State Licensing Board. Below we have provided you the link to the contact information of the Construction Industry Licensing Board for more information.
https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-licenses/licensing-contact-information.html

# Robert1399 2022-05-15 13:14

If someone currently has a clean record and holds the Florida roofing license, and gets convicted of aggravated battery assault with a deadly weapon will they lose the Florida roofing license?

# Sharilyn Baez 2022-05-16 09:56

Hi Robert, it's up to the licensing board to decide whether they will revoke your license, we recommend you contact them and get a more direct answer from them. Below we have provided you the link to the contact information of the Construction Industry Licensing Board.
https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-licenses/licensing-contact-information.html

# Kristopher 2022-05-29 21:55

I was convicted almost 18 years ago for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Given the years of separation from this offense, would I have a chance to obtain a license?

# Aengels G. 2022-05-31 08:48

Hello Kristopher,

Although it states above that Possession Of Firearm By Felon will result in Denial when obtaining a Contractor's License in Florida, I recommend you to confirm with the State Licensing Board of Florida. Below I have provided you with the contact information.

Construction Industry Licensing Board
Customer Contact Center: 850.487.1395

# Mark Winter 2022-06-28 18:44

I had several arrest for burglary when I was 20-22yrs old. Ive been without a criminal record for over 25yrs. am I still excluded

# Aengels G. 2022-06-29 08:22

Hello Mark,

Although it states above that Burglary (Single occurrence) will not affect you from getting a Contractor License, I recommend you to confirm with the State Licensing Board of Florida. Below I have provided you with the contact information.

Construction Industry Licensing Board
Customer Contact Center: 850.487.1395

# autumn 2022-07-11 16:46

can you send me a list of felonies that will keep my husband from being able to get a license in the state of Arkansas, and can you tell me which license he will need to have to build in ground pools.

# Sharilyn Baez 2022-07-12 12:36

Hello Autumn, the license your husband would need to build an in-ground pool in the state of Arkansas is the Swimming Pool, Spa - Commercial Contractor License bellow you will find more information about it. Concerning felonies that will prevent your husband from obtaining a license, below is a link with the restrictions due to a criminal record.
https://www.contractorcampus.com/arkansas-swimming-pool-spa-commercial-contractor-license.html
https://www.aclb.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/07_01_20-Commercial-Regs-and-Law_FINAL.pdf

# Craig Becker 2022-07-25 19:21

i had a charge 26yrs ago of aggrevated child abuse by willful torture will that stop me from getting cbc license? thanks

# Sharilyn Baez 2022-07-26 10:39

Hi Craig, A felony will result in the denial of a Contractor License. We recommend you contact the State Licensing Board. Below we have provided you the link to the contact information of the Construction Industry Licensing Board.
https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-licenses/licensing-contact-information.html

# Thomas J DeFrancesco 2022-08-12 23:54

Does armed robbery from 18 years ago bar me from getting a residential contractors license?

# Aengels G. 2022-08-15 11:06

Hello Thomas,

Although it does not state Armed robbery above, I would recommend you contact the Construction Industry Licensing Board, since they are the ones who process your application.

Below we have provided you the link to the contact information of the Construction Industry Licensing Board.

https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-licenses/licensing-contact-information.html
Reply

# Jared Rye 2022-09-03 20:51

I was convicted of Possession of listed chemicals back in 2015. Since that conviction I haven't had anything more than a speeding ticket and completely changed my lifestyle. Would this conviction stop me from getting an HVAC contractor's license in the state of Florida?

# Sharilyn Baez 2022-09-06 14:07

Hi Jared, we recommend that you contact the DBPR to get a more direct answer. In the following link, you can find their contact information.
https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-licenses/licensing-contact-information.html

# louis BEARDEN 2022-10-24 21:39

hi in 2006 I was 22 years old i been doing marine construction now for over 20 years i had dealing in stolen property and grand theft i didnt see them listed but its been almost 14 years iam now 39 can i still qualify i am currently signed up and await the testing process

# Aengels G. 2022-10-25 11:52

Hello Louis,

Although it does not state above that stolen property and grand theft will result in Denial when obtaining a Contractor's License in Florida, I recommend you confirm with the State Licensing Board of Florida. Below I have provided you with the contact information.

Customer Contact Center: (850)487-1395

# John Oliver 2022-11-03 07:39

I was found guilty of trafficking in a controlled substance in 1989 felony never in trouble since

Will this affect me in getting a residential license

# Sharilyn Baez 2022-11-03 09:04

Hello John,
Per the information the DBPR has listed, it will not affect you from obtaining a Residential Contractor License. Once you do the background check needed to obtain the RC License, the DBPR will contact you to answer some follow-up questions and determine whether you are eligible or not.

https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-residential-contractor-license.html

# JCheatham84 2022-11-29 09:50

I had a misdemeanor DUI charge 3.5 years ago, never missed a drug test and did everything I needed to do. I’ve never been in trouble prior to that. I’m 38, will that prevent me from getting a GC license in Florida?

# Sharilyn Baez 2022-11-29 10:16

Hello Jeremy,
Your Misdemeanor DUI will not affect you from obtaining a General Contractor License in Florida. Keep in mind that the Department of Business and Professional Regulation is the one to determine if you are eligible after doing the background check and meeting the requested requirements. I have attached the DPR contact information and a link where you can find more details regarding the GC license in Florida.

https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-general-contractor-license.html
https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-licenses/licensing-contact-information.html

# Lilyonna Eve 2022-12-07 18:51

20 yrs ago my husband was charge with sexual assault in TX but would like to and can qualify for a electrician license in FL. We have always assumed he could not get one. Is there any chance? He was truthful and turned himself in, only charge ever.

# Aengels G. 2022-12-08 10:20

Hello Lilyonna,
Although it does not state above that a sexual assault will result in Denial when obtaining a Contractor's License in Florida. I recommend you confirm with the State Licensing Board of Florida. Below I have provided you with the contact information.
Customer Contact Center: (850)487-1395

# Mario A 2022-12-12 13:10

I have a felony distribution of LSD in Virginia from 27 years ago. Will that stop me from getting a contractor's (asbestos, mold and general) license in Florida? I called them today and the person I spoke to said I just needed to apply and that there's no one there to ask those questions to.

# Sharilyn Baez 2022-12-12 15:00

Hello Mario, The three charges that can prevent you from obtaining a contractor license are Lewd/Lascivious Act Against A Child, Possession Of Dangerous Drugs and Possession Of Firearm By Felon . Unfortunately, we cannot give you a direct answer, the DBPR is the one that can deny or accept your application. If the DBPR said there is no one you can talk to, and your only option is to submit the application, you can continue with the application process and wait to hear back from them.

# Scott Weymer 2022-12-25 02:50

I held 3 state Licenses in Florida and they were revoked for administration issues (not getting permits happened in 2005 I was later charged and pled to contracting without a lic. but adjudication was withheld once probation was completed which I completed successfully. Can be issued a new lic. again

# Aengels G. 2022-12-26 09:44

Hello Scott,
Although it does not state above that being charged for contracting without a license will result in Denial when obtaining a Contractor's License in Florida. I recommend you confirm with the State Licensing Board of Florida. Below I have provided you with the contact information.
Customer Contact Center: (850)487-1395

# jose b 2022-12-27 18:59

i have an open case if havent had a court date yet: Charges smuggle of persons

would this stop me from getting a contractors license

# Aengels G. 2022-12-28 10:46

Hello Jose,
Although it does not state above that being charged for contracting without a license will result in Denial when obtaining a Contractor's License in Florida.
I recommend you confirm with the State Licensing Board of Florida. Below I have provided you with the contact information.
Customer Contact Center: (850)487-1395

# Paul s 2023-03-13 16:10

I got convicted of a felony burglary charge in the state of New York back in 2017 did my time. Planning to move to Florida opening a painting company. What is the chances of me getting a license?

# Sharilyn Baez 2023-03-13 16:26

Hello Paul,
As stated above, a Burglary (Single occurrence) will not affect you from obtaining a Contractor License in Florida. However, we recommend contacting the State Licensing Board of Florida to confirm. Below I have provided you with the contact information.
Customer Contact Center: (850)487-1395

# Christopher Mundell 2023-03-16 13:27

Can possession of ammo by a state felon get my application denied.

# Sharilyn Baez 2023-03-17 09:56

Hello Christopher,
For that specific charge, we recommend contacting the DBPR since it is up to them to deny or approve your application for a Contractor License. Below I have attached their contact information.
Customer Contact Center: (850)487-1395
https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-licenses/licensing-contact-information.html

# waylon 2023-03-22 16:14

i was convicted of a third degree misdemenor 7 years ago for "a false report of a crime " will this prevent me from getting a GC license in florida

# Claudia Soto 2023-03-23 10:14

Hello Waylon,

Although a third-degree misdemeanor for "a false report of a crime" is not stated above, We do recommend you to confirm with the State Licensing Board of Florida. Below I have provided you with their contact information.
Customer Contact Center: (850)487-1395

https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-licenses/licensing-contact-information.html

# christopher ruwe 2023-03-22 20:53

Hi I was
Convicted for insurance fraud back in 2006. Since then I have been able to get my real estate license in 2020. Can I obtain a roofing contractor license?
This is in Florida.

# Claudia Soto 2023-03-23 10:15

Hello Christopher,

For that specific charge, I recommend that you confirm with the State Licensing Board of Florida for a more direct answer since it is not stated above. Below I have provided you with their contact information. Customer Contact Center: (850)487-1395

https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-licenses/licensing-contact-information.html

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