Florida contractor license lookup
Florida licenses contractors through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Certified contractors may work anywhere in the state; registered contractors may work only in the cities or counties where they hold a local license.
Where to search
DBPR Construction Industry Licensing Board
Licenses: General, building, residential, roofing, plumbing, air-conditioning, pool and other construction contractors.
Use “Verify a License” and search by name or license number.
DBPR Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board
Licenses: Electrical and alarm system contractors.
The same “Verify a License” search covers electrical contractors.
When you need a licensed contractor in Florida
- Work in the trades the state licenses (building, roofing, plumbing, air conditioning, pools, electrical and others) needs a state-licensed contractor.
- Work the state doesn’t license, such as some painting, flooring or handyman jobs, may still need a license from your city or county.
How to check a Florida contractor
- Ask for the license number and the business name on the license.
- Search DBPR’s “Verify a License” by name or license number.
- Confirm the license is current and active, and that its type fits your job.
- Check whether the license is certified or registered. A registered license is valid only where the contractor holds a local license, so confirm it covers your city or county.
- Make sure the name on your contract matches the license.
Watch out for
- Contracting without a license during a declared state of emergency, such as after a hurricane, is a felony in Florida. Be especially careful with door-to-door offers after a storm.
Questions
What is the difference between a certified and a registered contractor?
A certified contractor passed the state exam and may work anywhere in Florida. A registered contractor holds a local license and may work only in the cities or counties where it is registered, so check that your property is covered.
Who licenses electricians in Florida?
Electrical and alarm system contractors are licensed by DBPR’s Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board. You can check them in the same “Verify a License” search.
Do handymen need a license in Florida?
Florida has no state handyman license, but handymen can’t do work in licensed trades such as electrical, plumbing, roofing or air conditioning. Many cities and counties have their own rules, so check locally.
Other states
Checked on November 3, 2026 against these sources:
- DBPR Verify a License
- DBPR construction industry public records
- Florida Statutes §489.127 (unlicensed contracting)
- Charlotte County: unlicensed contracting during an emergency is a felony
Rules change. Always confirm a license on the official board’s website before you hire.