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Can I use my license from another State in Florida?

Endorsement is a method of licensure for applicants who, in lieu of taking the State of Florida's licensing examination, comply with one of the options below:
Have taken an examination of substantially equivalency to the corresponding Florida licensing examination, meet the experience requirements for Florida certification, and meet all other requirements for licensure; OR
Holds a valid license to practice contracting issued by another state or United State territory, if the criteria for issuance of such license were substantially equivalent to Florida's current certification criteria.

Endorsement as a Certified Contractor

In the state of Florida to become a contractor by Endorsement you must meet ONE of the following qualifications:

  • (Option A)
    Meets the requirements for certification as set forth in this section; has passed a national, regional, state, or United States territorial licensing examination that is substantially equivalent to the examination required by this part; and has satisfied the requirements set forth in s. 489.111
  • (Option B) Holds a valid license to practice contracting issued by another state or territory of the United States, if the criteria for issuance of such license were substantially equivalent to Florida’s current certification criteria
  • (Option C) Has held a valid, current license to practice contracting issued by another state or territory of the United States for at least 10 years before the date of the application provided that the license is currently active or was active within the last 2 years; OR
    • Holds a valid, current license to practice contracting issued by another state or territory of the United States, if the state or territory has entered into a reciprocal agreement with the board for the recognition of contractor licenses issued in that state, based on criteria for the issuance of such licenses that are substantially equivalent to the criteria for certification in this state

Please note that there are currently no reciprocal agreements in place to recognize valid licenses in other states or territories.

Endorsement Qualifications

  • Applicants choosing Option A will need to:
    • Submit an official score report showing your score on the examination given by your state
    • Submit Examination Evaluation Questionnaire that has been completed by the provider of the licensing examination given by your state (Pages 18 – 26 of this application)
    • Complete Sections I through IV and IX through XIII of Application for Endorsement as Certified Contractor Form # DBPR CILB 10
  • Applicants choosing Option B will need to:
    • Submit a copy of your out-of-state license from the state in which you currently operate
    • Submit a copy of statutes and rules regarding licensing and contractor certification requirements that were in effect at the time of your licensure
    • Submit Examination Evaluation Questionnaire that has been completed by the provider of the licensing examination given by your state (Pages 18 – 26 of this application)
    • Complete Sections I through III and IX through XIII of Application for Endorsement as Certified Contractor Form # DBPR CILB 10
  • Applicants choosing Option C will need to:
    • Submit verification of licensure from the state in which you are licensed which shows your current license status and that you have been licensed for at least 10 years and indicating if any disciplinary action has been taken against the license
    • If applying to become a Certified General Contractor, a Certified Building Contractor, Certified Residential Contractor, or Certified Roofing Contractor, you must also provide proof of completion of a board approved 2-hour course on the Florida Building Code which includes information on wind mitigation techniques.

Comments

# OB H Fearnow 2021-01-29 08:45
Greetings,
I am a Licensed Builder in Michigan for over 25 years. Living in Orlando Florida for the past 3 years.
My Michigan license is current (exp. date 5-2021).
I would like to get more information..
Thank you,
OB Fearnow
[email protected]
231-360-6494
Reply
# Contractor Licensing Experts 2021-01-29 14:14
Hello!

I have sent you a proposal that includes the list of books and courses that we offer for the license you are interested in obtaining. The proposal will also include the prices for everything individually and a total that includes shipping and taxes. Please let us know if you have any further questions. Thank you very much, and have a great day!
Reply
# Dina O. 2023-01-18 15:02
Hi OB,

If you have a license from the state in which you are licensed which shows your current license status and that you have been licensed for at least 10 years, then yes you can apply without taking the state exam.

If you would like help applying for a Florida state Endorsement as a Certified Contractor, I can help you can reach me at 425 422 2464 or email [email protected]
Reply
# Paul Jerkins 2023-04-06 07:45
I’ve held an electrical license in the state of New Jersey since 1988

I am looking for assistance and putting together the application
Reply
# Claudia Soto 2023-04-06 11:05
Hello Paul, You may be approved for the Endorsement since you qualify for options B & C as stated above. However, it is up to the State Board to approve the Endorsement. We recommend contacting them to confirm the Endorsement's approval and help with the application. If they inform you that you do not qualify for the Endorsement, you must pass the trade and business exams; we have the books and classes to prepare you. Down below, we will provide you with a link to the Contact Information for the State Board and a link to more information on the license.

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

https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-unlimited-electrical-contractor-license.html
Reply
# Chris Munday 2021-09-04 08:17
I am a licensed General Contractor in the Tennessee and im interested in expanding into Florida, as i have family there, would my license be able to be honored in Florida? If not what would be the steps to obtain a Florida license?
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# Leah R. 2021-09-10 10:59
The State of Florida is now accepting licenses from other states through Endorsements.

There are specific requirements that have to be met to transfer a license through endorsement. For more information, please visit https://www.contractorcampus.com/endorsements-in-the-state-of-florida.html.

If you do not meet the endorsement requirements, please visit the following article for more information about obtaining a general contractor license in Florida.

https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-general-contractor-license.html
Reply
# Robert J Foglia 2021-09-17 15:40
I have a state certified contractors license in florida CGC007198
However I also have Engineering contractors, a General Contractors License, and an Electrical License in California, I would like to receive a electrical license in Florida
My License in California is 280412
Reply
# Idalia S. 2021-10-14 11:40
Hi Robert! The Division of Professions of Construction Industry Licensing Board would determine if the active licensing issued to you by another state is equivalent to Florida's current certification criteria. We have more information on how you may qualify for endorsement , as well as information on the Electrical Contractor’s License process on the links below.


Endorsement:
https://www.contractorcampus.com/endorsements-in-the-state-of-florida.html

Electrical Contractor License:
https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-unlimited-electrical-contractor-license.html
Reply
# john Lester Beckman 2021-11-01 12:14
I NOW HOLD A WEST VIRGINA AND MARYLAND CONTRACTOR LICENSES. DOES FLORIDA EXCEPT THESE STATES FOR A CERTIFIED CONTRATOR LICENSE ENDORSEMENT ?
Reply
# Idalia S. 2021-11-03 12:43
Hello John! Florida does accept individuals who are licensed in another state without having to take the exam. I will provide you with a link for the application and an answer on the official DBPR. Do take in mind that the information is from two years ago. However, it has beneficial info that may assist you with this process.


Application
http://www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/pro/cilb/documents/CILB10_Certification_by_Endorsement.pdf

Answer
http://myfloridalicense.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/1418/~/do-florida-statutes-provide-for-endorsement-of-out-of-state-construction

DBPR Endorsement Info
https://www.myfloridalicense.com/CheckListDetail.asp?SID=&xactCode=1035&clientCode=0605&XACT_DEFN_ID=9202
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# Wayne hawkins 2021-12-28 12:26
I have all masters in Rhode Island I want to transfer to Florida , I own affordable heating airconditioning services and I already incorporated my business into Florida I want to transfer my
master refrigeration 1
Master pipe fitters 1
Master sheet metal 1
Master class E electrical
So I can start my business at my new home Florida
Reply
# Aengels G. 2021-12-28 14:59
Hi Wayne! You may be approved for transfer since you qualify under options b & c under the endorsements as a certified contractor in the state of Florida.

DBPR Endorsement Info
https://www.myfloridalicense.com/CheckListDetail.asp?SID=&xactCode=1035&clientCode=0605&XACT_DEFN_ID=9202

Answer
http://myfloridalicense.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/1418/~/do-florida-statutes-provide-for-endorsement-of-out-of-state-construction

Application
http://www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/pro/cilb/documents/CILB10_Certification_by_Endorsement.pdf
Reply
# J Gordils 2022-01-03 17:28
Actualmente tengo mi propio negocio inscrito en Puerto Rico, llevo trabajando 25 años 15 como contratista, realizo trabajos comercial, industrial y residencial. Poseo mi licencia de Técnico de Refrigeración y aires acondicionados y también tengo mi licencia del Estado. Tengo planes de mudarme para finales de este año para (Orlando FL) quiero tener mi compañía allá. Necesito saber como pudo hacer para sacar la licencia de la Florida.
Reply
# Aengels G. 2022-01-04 10:38
Hola Mr. Gordils,
Para la Licensia Contratista General en la Florida tienes que paser dos examenes, el de Tecnico y el de Negosios, Nosotros tenemos las clases y los libros para prepararte para estos examenes. Para mas informacion haga clic en el enlace de abajo.
https://www.contractorcampus.com/es/licencia-de-contratista-general-en-la-florida.html
Reply
# Gerald Stark 2022-02-27 18:02
The requirement is for a license by endorsement is holding a contractor's license 10 years and active within the last two. I have had a license in one state for 6 and another that is currently active for 6. That complies with the requirements to hold a license of 10 years or more and that it be active. Is there any reason I should be denied?
Reply
# Aengels G. 2022-02-28 10:00
Hello Robert,
It is up to the State to approve the Endorsement, but it does comply with the 10 years or more requirement. For more information, you can always contact DBPR - Division of Professions
Construction Industry Licensing Board
2601 Blair Stone Road
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0783
Customer Contact Center: 850.487.1395
http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/construction-industry/
Reply
# A Parrish 2022-03-04 18:29
Regarding endorsement for FL contractor license the state website recognizes only CA and the national (post 2009) meet the requirements for endorsement qualified testing. Do you know what is included in the CA test that meets the endorsement to FL contractor testing? Also, does this apply to all endorsement categories (a, b, c)?
Reply
# Idalia S. 2022-03-07 11:23
Section 489.115(3), Florida Statutes, provides for certification by endorsement for any applicant who: Holds a valid license to practice contracting issued by
another state or territory of the United States if the criteria for issuance
of such license were substantially equivalent to Florida’s current
certification criteria. The term "substantially equivalent" is somewhat subjective, and for purposes of confirming how the CILB defines that term, you are better off consulting with them directly. Their contact info can be found on this page: http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/construction-industry/

This other link is the current application by endorsement for a Florida General Contractor's License: http://www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/pro/cilb/documents/CILB10_Certification_by_Endorsement.pdf
Reply
# james petrocelli 2022-04-24 09:43
I have been licensed as an electrician and dba Petrocelli and Sons Electric since 2002 . Was considering a move to Florida but I am only 61 and would like to continue working.
Can i get licensure in Florida via 10 years in business in good standing ahead of a move so I can have all my ducks in a row ahead of time.
Reply
# Sharilyn Baez 2022-04-25 09:27
Hello James,
If you have an active license and you qualify for one of the endorsement options, you will be able to obtain your license in Florida after you have submitted your application and the DBPR has approved it. If you do not, you will have to pass the trade and business exam to obtain the license.
https://www.contractorcampus.com/endorsements-in-the-state-of-florida/florida-endorsement-application.html
Reply
# Christopher Good 2022-06-01 10:13
I have passed the NASCLA and hold licenses in several other states. What do I need to submit to get my license in FL?
Reply
# Aengels G. 2022-06-01 11:24
Hello Christopher,
You will need to take the Business exam for the state of Florida to be able to obtain your License in FL. We have the books and classes to prepare you to pass the Business exam.
https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-general-contractor-license.html
Reply
# Ferdinand Peters 2022-07-29 17:06
i am a licensed contactor from NY of 34 years tota. i hold several licenses for home improvements: would like to know how i can obtain justa home improvement in Port st lucie i dont want the state thank you respectfully submitted Fred
Suffolk County #H-52179
Nassau county #H0305770000
long beach #5840
NYC department of consumers affairs Home contractor #1436340
EPA lead safe expires 10/9/2022
Reply
# Aengels G. 2022-08-01 10:58
Hello Ferdinand,

For St. Lucie County, you can obtain a Residential license. You must meet ONE of the following qualifications above for the endorsement. If you do not qualify, you will need to pass the trade and business exam, and we have the books and classes to prepare you to pass both. For more information, I will add the link below.
https://www.contractorcampus.com/st-lucie-county-florida-residential-contractor-gits-license.html
Reply
# Robert W 2022-09-24 14:47
Hello:
I have had a contractor registration in New Hampshire, a BSBA from Northeastern and have been building custom homes and remodeling for over 35 years. I currently have finish carpentry license for Lee County but want to obtain my remodeling license for the state. Would I be able to use my education and background to do so?
Thanks
Reply
# Sharilyn Baez 2022-09-26 10:04
Hello Robert, you can submit an endorsement application and see if you qualify to transfer your license to the state of Florida. If you do not qualify, you will need to take the Trade and Business exam for a Residential Contractor License. You will also need to satisfy experience/education requirements. You can find information on the licenses and applications for endorsement in the following links.
https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-residential-contractor-license.html
http://www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/pro/cilb/documents/CILB10_Certification_by_Endorsement.pdf
Reply
# Steve Weber 2022-10-02 08:12
Our company supplies Low Voltage solutions to Residential and Commercial buildings. Such as audio, video, surveillance cameras, Lighting Design and control, Motorized shades etc...I don't see a category for us to fit under on the application. We are already licensed in Illinois, Colorado and TN. We have done the NSCLA testing in TN this year so are we best to apply by Endorsement?
Reply
# Idalia S. 2022-10-04 15:20
Hi Steven, to determine what is best to apply for, we recommend you look into the requirements to ensure that you qualify. If you do not qualify for a license due to the requirements, the license that fits your scope of work is the Florida Low Voltage license.

https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-limited-energy-low-voltage-contractor-license.html
Reply
# ray Lafrance 2022-10-02 11:50
Hello want to get a cert elect lic in fla . have an e1 for 23 yrs and still active now in ct. what form and requirements do i need.? Thanks
Reply
# Aengels G. 2022-10-04 15:11
Hello Ray,

To be able to be certified in FL you must be one of the three following qualifications above. If you do not qualify, you must pass the trade and business exams for the license you are trying to obtain. We have the books and classes to prepare you to pass both of the required exams for multiple Electric licenses. For more information on those licenses click the link below.

https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-licenses.html
Reply
# Carolina Gomez 2022-11-30 16:39
Hello, my father has had his GC license in Virginia since 2008. We are applying for the Endorsement, Option C. Do you know if he needs to fill out the Examination Evaluation Questionnaire?

Tried calling Florida DBPR- not very friendly nor helpful
Reply
# Aengels G. 2022-12-01 11:34
Hello Carolina,

For option C, he will not need to fill out the Examination Evaluation Questionnaire. He only needs to Submit verification of licensure from the state in which you are licensed which shows his current license status and that he has been licensed for at least 10 years and indicating if any disciplinary action has been taken against the license.

If he is applying to become a Certified General Contractor, a Certified Building Contractor, Certified Residential Contractor, or Certified Roofing Contractor, he must also provide proof of completion of a board approved 2-hour course on the Florida Building Code which includes information on wind mitigation techniques.
Reply
# Ray Lafrance 2022-12-06 20:52
hello Ive had an E1 ct lic for 24 yrs I am gonna pick the c option I have the states active sheet record of all the years with no violations would that be enough to qualify ? thanks
Reply
# Aengels G. 2022-12-07 11:43
Hello Ray,
For the option C you have held the license longer than what they require which is perfect, and also you must submit:
Verification of licensure from the state in which you are licensed which shows your current license status and that you have been licensed for at least 10 years and indicating if any disciplinary action has been taken against the license.
If applying to become a Certified General Contractor, a Certified Building Contractor, Certified Residential Contractor, or Certified Roofing Contractor, you must also provide proof of completion of a board approved 2-hour course on the Florida Building Code which includes information on wind mitigation techniques.

That is all that they require.
Reply
# Steve J.Parsons 2022-12-18 09:30
HI,
I`am the owner of a landscape business in connecticut. i have been in business here for 26 years, thinking of starting a demolition/landscaping business in Florida. I currently have a home improvement contractors license. What type of license would I need to start up in Florida ? Is my home improvement license good for any part of a new business in Florida?

Thanks,Steve
Reply
# Aengels G. 2022-12-19 10:34
Hello Steve,
To do Demolition, you may apply for a General contractor license, we have the books and classes to prepare you to pass the trade and business exams. For more information on that license please click on the link below.

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

Now with your home improvement license you will have to validate it, and if they don't accept it you will still need a General contractor license.
Reply
# Matthew F. 2023-03-22 13:42
i have a certified residential contractors license as well as professional engineers license in Florida. Can i upgrade to a CGC in Florida without examination since i have already passed the business portion of the contractor's exam as well as the pe license exam?
Reply
# Claudia Soto 2023-03-22 15:31
Hello Matthew, unless you have a Bachelor's degree in Building Construction or a related field you would still be required to take the Trade exam. We have provided you a link so that you can have more information on the Florida General Contractor License.

https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-general-contractor-license.html
Reply
# Aubrey Foster jr 2023-04-19 15:07
I am a sheet metal contractor in the state of Louisiana. We have been in business for 50 years, but my name has just been added as a qualifying party this year. I have taken the B&F exam for Florida and passed and was hoping the state of Florida would replicate the trade portion. I'm being told that the state of Florida would not because I've only been on our trade license for a few months. Is that correct?
Reply
# Claudia Soto 2023-04-19 16:27
Hello Aubrey,
We do recommend that you contact the DBPR directly to verify that information. Most likely, you will need to take the trade exam; the only exemption to not taking that exam that we know of is if an applicant has a Bachelor's degree in Building Construction or a related field, as well as a 3.0 GPA or higher. Down Below, we will provide you with two links, one with the contact information to the DBPR and the other link will have more information on the books & classes to prepare you for the Trade exam.

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

https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-sheet-metal-contractor-license.html
Reply
# Alan Carr 2023-08-03 07:47
Hi, I wish to get into the garage door business. Do I need a contractors license and if so do I also have to have 4 years experience before I can apply or is there any way around this? Thank you.
Reply
# Sharilyn Baez 2023-08-08 09:27
Hello Alan,
If you are looking to work in different counties you will be required to obtain a Contractor's License. The scope of work that you do will fall under a General, Building, or Residential Contractor License and you will need to proved either 4 years of experience or:
[-] No less than three years of credits from accredited college-level courses, and One year of experience as a foreman, or
[-] Two years of credits from accredited college-level courses, one year experience as a foreman, and One year experience as a worker, or
[-] One year of experience as a foreman, one year of credits from accredited college-level courses, and two years of experience as a worker, or
[-] Four years of experience as a foreman or worker of which at least one year must have been as a foreman

The DBPR could request additional documents in regard to experience. It I up to the DBPR to deny or approve your application to become a contractor.

You can get someone who has a contractor license, and they will be able to qualify your business until you have obtained your construction experience.
https://www.contractorcampus.com/qualifying-agents-in-florida.html

Below I have attached a link for the General, Building, or Residential Contractor Licenses, where you will be able to find the courses and books to prepare you for the Trade and Business exams.

https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-general-contractor-license.html
https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-building-contractor-license.html
https://www.contractorcampus.com/florida-residential-contractor-license.html
Reply
# Pino 2024-01-05 14:47
Hello, I am a licensed plumber in Toronto Canada and I am looking to move to florida. Can I have my license transferred over?
Reply
# Sofía M. 2024-01-08 11:41
Hello Pino,

You cannot directly transfer your Toronto Plumbing License to Florida. Each State has its licensing requirements and regulations, and reciprocity for Plumbing Licenses between Canada and the US has yet to be established. However, transitioning your skills and experience to Florida is not impossible.

To achieve your goal, you must meet Florida's Plumbing License requirements, which are regulated by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Requisites include counting with experience in the field (documentation and verification will be required for your experience in Toronto), detailed paperwork (such as fingerprinting, background checks, and proof of liability insurance), and passing a trade and business examination (if applicable).

We are a construction school and bookstore that offers books and classes to prepare you to obtain your Contractor's License.

With our courses, you can start studying online the same day you register. You can study at your own pace and have unlimited access to your study material. The online classes include lecture videos, practice exams, key concepts, and step-by-step solutions to math problems.

You also have access to live refresher online classes with the purchase of the courses. These review classes cover basic concepts of business, accounting, trade math, and how to find information within your books. We also offer hourly one-to-one tutoring as an additional service if you are interested.

We have two book sets, one set with tabs and the other without. The tabs are color-coordinated, pre-labeled and include page numbers, which help you find the information faster within your books. We have the books in stock and ship via UPS ground daily; if you place the order before 2 p.m., it will be shipped out the same day.

Please do not hesitate to call us at 866-986-7978 to ask further questions if you need more clarification. We are happy to help!
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# Cody D 2024-03-09 00:15
Hi, I am an active general contractor in Utah and would like to seek endorsement through option A.

1. Where do i start?
2. What is that ratio of people approved and denied. Is it a simple process?

Thank you.
Reply
# Sofía M. 2024-03-15 10:37
Hello Cody,

To acquire endorsement through Option A in Florida as a General Contractor, all prerequisites must be met, as outlined by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Eligibility criteria shall comply with the certification standards established in Section 489.111 of Florida's Statutes. Typically, these prerequisites encompass relevant experience and education, in addition to successfully passing a licensing examination that is substantially equivalent to Florida's.

In terms of the specific steps, you need to submit an official report showing your score on the examination given by Utah, in this case, to demonstrate your proficiency in the field. It is mandatory to obtain and complete the Examination Evaluation Questionnaire made available by the provider of the licensing examination given by your state. This form helps assess the equivalency of your examination to Florida's requirements. You shall then complete a form by filling out Sections I through IV and IX through XIII of the Application for Endorsement as Certified Contractor Form - DBPR CILB 10, which collects essential information about your qualifications and background. Finally, you must gather all necessary documents, including the ones mentioned, and submit them to the DBPR. Below, we will share a list of resources that could be helpful.

• Endorsements in the State of Florida:
https://www.contractorcampus.com/endorsements-in-the-state-of-florida.html
• Department of Business & Professional Regulation:
https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/
• Construction Industry Licensing Board:
https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/
• Florida Statutes - 489.111 Licensure by Examination:
http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0400-0499/0489/Sections/0489.111.html

In response to your question about approval ratios and the simplicity of the process, it is noteworthy that a range of factors can influence the outcome. These may include the acceptance of your out-of-state examination, the thoroughness of your application, the precision of your documentation, and your adherence to the licensing requirements set forth by the State of Florida. The standards are highly stringent, but if you fulfill the prerequisites and furnish all necessary material, you can anticipate seamless and efficient application processing. Complying with the criteria will augment your likelihood of obtaining approval.

We recommend contacting the Customer Contact Center of the DBPR's Construction Industry Licensing Board at 850-487-1395. They can provide tailored guidance and address any specific concerns you may have regarding your application. Additionally, you could ask them about the NASCLA Accredited Examination Program, designed to minimize repetitive licensing demands and aid contractors requiring licensure across various jurisdictions. You may refer to these two articles for more information:

• NASCLA Contractor Licenses: https://www.contractorcampus.com/nascla-contractor-licenses.html
• Florida NASCLA General Contractor License: https://www.contractorcampus.com/nascla-florida-general-contractor-license.html

Please do not hesitate to contact us at 866-986-7978 if you require assistance or have further queries. We are here to help in any way we can!
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