The End of Paper Licenses for Florida General Contractors

A general contractor license is a valuable thing to have when you are pursuing your career goals of working in and on property. For Florida contractors, license requirements mean passing an exam, meeting a list of additional requirements (four years of documented experience in the field, credit report, financial statements, etc.), and then waiting for a paper license to be delivered in the mail.

At Contractors Reporting Services , we understand that you want to get to work as soon as possible. Up until now, when you applied for a new general contractor’s license in Florida or even a renewal, there was often a waiting period of up to two weeks to receive a paper license in the mail.

As of 2018, the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) will be moving the Construction Industry Licensing Board and the Electrical Contractor’s Licensing Board over to a paperless system.

What does this mean for My Florida Contractor’s License?

The news that the DBPR is changing the way licenses are distributed is huge for you as a contractor. No longer will you have to wait two weeks to receive your paper license in the mail; instead you will be able to print out your license at your own personal convenience after the application has been approved. This applies to both new license applications and renewals.

Being able to access your general contractor license via the paperless medium will mean that the time between license approval and obtaining it is slashed almost entirely. There is the potential instant access after your Florida contractor’s license is approved, meaning that you will be able to get to work right away instead of having to wait to receive it in the mail.

For professional contractors, you are already aware of the incredible benefits having a contractor’s license brings to your career. While these licenses are not essential for smaller, handyman-type self-employed individuals, it is illegal to practice construction over a specific monetary value without having at least a general contractor’s license.

Not only is it required for more extensive projects of higher value, but obtaining a paperless Florida contractor license also brings you greater credibility due to the rigorous application process, which in turn allows your earning potential to increase exponentially. Now that your license can be accessed without being printed, you will be able to have it available at any time.

What should I do if I have Questions about my new Paperless License?

We understand that technology is developing rapidly and that the transition can be a little confusing. If you have any questions or concerns about the switch to paperless licensing and what it means for you as a contractor, feel free to call us at 1-800-487-2084 or pay us a visit at our Tampa location ,and we will be happy to clarify and address any concerns you may have. We can walk you through the entire process from preparing for your exams to processing any paperwork involved in the process, so get in touch with us today for professional help that will simply the entire process for you.

By Chris Cook March 18, 2025
As a licensed contractor in Florida, you may eventually find that your business needs to expand its scope of work. Whether you're looking to move from residential to commercial projects or increase the size of the projects you can legally take on, upgrading your contractor’s license to a higher class can be an essential step in growing your business.
By Chris Cook March 18, 2025
Obtaining a contractor's license in Florida is an essential step to legally work in the construction industry. However, the process can be complex, and many applicants make mistakes that delay or even derail their application. Whether you're a new contractor or looking to expand your business, knowing the most common pitfalls can save you time, money, and stress. In this article, we'll highlight the top mistakes to avoid when applying for your Florida contractor's license and provide tips for a smoother process.
By Chris Cook March 18, 2025
In Florida, contractors are required to be licensed to ensure that construction projects are executed safely, correctly, and in compliance with state laws. Two major regulatory bodies oversee contractor licensing in Florida: the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) and the Electrical Contractors' Licensing Board (ECLB). While both fall under the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), their areas of focus are quite different. If you're a contractor or considering entering the construction industry in Florida, it’s crucial to understand the roles these boards play and how they affect you.
By Chris Cook March 18, 2025
A career in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) can be a good idea in Florida, as in many other parts of the United States. Florida's warm and humid climate certainly makes air conditioning a necessity, so there is a consistent demand for HVAC services. This demand can provide job security and opportunities for those working in the HVAC industry. HVAC technicians in Florida can earn a healthy income, with the potential to increase their earnings as they gain experience and expertise. And HVAC professionals who choose to start their own HVAC businesses often find this a rewarding option. Overall, a career in HVAC in Florida can be a good idea if you have a genuine interest in the field, are willing to invest in your education and training, and are prepared to adapt to changing industry trends and technologies. It can provide job stability, good earning potential, and opportunities for career growth, especially if you are committed to delivering quality service to your customers.
By Julia Bradley July 27, 2023
The demand for licensed electricians is high in Florida and expected to continue growing as new construction and infrastructure projects are undertaken. If you are considering a career as a licensed electrician, you can expect to earn a competitive salary, and have steady employment and job security. Skilled electricians are needed in various industries, including residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Electricians also have the flexibility to work independently, for an established company or start their own businesses which can give you more control over your work schedule, projects, and income potential. Although physical demands and challenging environments, such as cramped spaces, heights, or extreme weather conditions exist, those who enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving, and working with electrical systems will find this profession rewarding, and you can continually expand your knowledge and expertise through ongoing training and certifications.
By Ryan Bradley April 25, 2023
Running a successful construction business requires careful planning and execution, as well as a good understanding of the industry and the market you operate in. Here are some key steps to consider when starting and growing a successful construction business.
By Ryan Bradley March 1, 2023
Get Organized in 2023: Three Construction Management Software Programs to Try
Real estate trends shows graphic of miniature house model on top of a blueprint
By crs-admin November 15, 2022
Realtor.com has recently published its housing market predictions for 2020. In the forecast, analysts looked at four areas: supply, demand, home sales, and the move to affordability. 1) Supply Low affordability and higher interest rates caused growth in the housing inventory, while higher housing prices and higher interest rates raised barriers to entry. Houses satContinue reading
Approved stamp for a contractor applying for a state license
By Sandra Brown April 17, 2022
Six steps Contractors Reporting Services can assist you in becoming a Florida contractor. #1 The Application. #2 Work Experience and State Examination: you must pass the Florida contractor license and provide educational and/or vocational experience. #3 Proof of financial stability and a high FICO score. #4 Fingerprinting and criminal background check. #5 Proof of Insurance. #6 Application fees. These steps can be difficult on your own. Call Contractors Reporting Services for more information.
IT management and cyber security for contractors
By crs-admin March 10, 2020
IT management and cybersecurity are critically important for the general contractor. Project management for the general contractor encompasses schedules, materials, services, permits, and, most importantly, people. When a cyber-attack steals client, subcontractor, and vendor account information, it hurts people.
More Posts