How to Get a Plumbing License in Florida

Last Updated: February 27, 2023 References

To work independently as a licensed plumber, you will need to apply for a license and meet the eligibility criteria. Florida allows plumbers to be either registered locally or licensed by the state. If you have at least 4 years of experience as a plumber, proof of financial stability, insurance and a bond, then you may have the necessary requirements to become a licensed plumber in Florida. The licensing process can take up to 4 years and requires renewal every 2 years. Find out how to get a plumbing license in Florida.

Steps

1
Ensure that you fit the basic qualifications to receive a Florida plumbing contractor's license. You will only be able to apply to take the exams, if you pass all of the following eligibility standards:^{[1]
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- You must be 18 or older.
- You must have at least 4 years of experience as a plumber. This may be proven with wage stubs, tax returns and certifications by other master plumbers. Up to 3 years of that experience may be provided with proof of a qualifying degree. You should also have at least 1 year of experience as a foreman.^{[2]
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- You must pass a criminal background check. Not all people with criminal records will be denied. This is at the discretion of the licensing board. You must submit your fingerprints.^{[3]
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- You must be able to prove your financial stability. This may be provided with bank statements, FICO credit scores and/or tax returns. You will be required to show proof of a bond.^{[4]
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- You must have both property damage insurance and public liability insurance. Although the amounts are determined by the board, they generally require that you have a bodily injury policy up to $100,000 and a property damage policy up to $25,000. You are required to provide worker's compensation insurance for all employees.
2
Decide if you will apply to be a registered plumbing contractor or a certified plumbing contractor. These 2 designations are available to Florida plumbers who pass the above qualifications in most places in Florida. The type of license can limit your ability to practice your trade.
- If you only plan to practice plumbing in 1 small locale, then you may choose to become a registered plumbing contractor. You will need to contact your local licensing agency or clerk of court office to see if they offer this type of license. If they do, you will be required to take and pass a local competency examination in lieu of the state license exam.
- If you want to be able to work on plumbing jobs throughout the state of Florida or in more than 1 locale, then you should apply to become a certified plumbing contractor. You will be required to take the state license examinations.
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3
Decide whether you want to apply as either an individual or a business. These are separate applications on the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation website. If you do not meet all of the qualifications, such as financial stability or liability insurance, a partner or business may be able to provide these requirements.
4
Download the printable application form on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website. Go to myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/pro/cilb/apply/rf-new.html to apply for a registered plumbing contractor license. Go to myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/pro/cilb/apply/cf-new.html to apply for a certified plumbing contractor license.
5
Read the application carefully. Fill out the application. Submit all required documentation that shows you meet the eligibility requirements.
6
Write a check to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation for the amount of the fee as noted on the application form. This fee will be between $209 and $354.
7
Mail the application to "Department of Business and Professional Regulation, 1940 North Monroe Street, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0783." Enclose your documentation and the application fee.
8
Request or download an examination registration form from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Go to myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/servop/testing/documents/exam_applic_pack.pdf. You will find exam application dates and examination dates in this packet.
9
Take the business and finance and trade examinations for certified plumber contracting licenses. These are usually given over the course of a 2 day period, in 4.5 hour segments. The cost of the exam is $135.
10
Pass the Florida plumbing examinations. You have 4 years from the date of your original application to pass the plumbing finance and trade examinations. You are not limited in the number of times you can take the exam.
- Changes can be made to your original application during that 4 year period. You will need to fill out a Request for Change form and pay $20 for each change.

Community Q&A

Question

As a licensed plumber in another state, can I take the online test to become licensed in Florida?

Community Answer

Yes.
Question

What kind of backflow license is needed for a plumber in Florida?

Community Answer

Backflow is a separate certification in Florida, and you do not need a master's license to obtain it.
Question

Do I need a GED or high school diploma to be a plumber?

Community Answer

No, but it will help you get hired. You can find apprentice programs and search their requirements.