How to Become a Licensed Plumber in Florida
Plumbing License Requirements in Florida
To provide almost all plumbing jobs in Florida, one must be a state licensed contractor or an apprentice working under a contractor’s supervision. Florida’s Department of Business and Professional Regulations, which is part of its Construction Industry Licensing Board, issues plumbing licenses.
Different Plumbing License Types in Florida
There are two types of plumbing licenses available in the state of Florida: those for certified and registered plumbing contractors. A certified license allows a plumber to work anywhere in the state, while a registered license only allows one to work in the area in which they passed their exam.
Every county has unique licensing requirements, and those applying for registered licenses should focus on learning those requirements before getting started.
The Cost of a Florida Plumbing License
Like most other parts of the state’s licensing rules for plumbers, fee structures are complex. Fees for a Florida plumbing license vary depending on the type chosen and when the application is filed.
● For registered contractors, the fee is $309 when applying from May 1 of odd years and August 31 of the next year; it drops to $209 if applying between September 1 of an even year and April 30 of the following year.
● For certified contractors, the fee is $249 if applying from May 1 of odd years and the following August 31; it goes down to $149 if applying from September 31 of odd years and the following April 30.
All Florida plumbing licenses must be renewed biannually on August 31. Certified plumbing licenses expire in even years, while registered plumbing licenses expire in odd years. No matter which license one has, there’s a $209 renewal fee that must be paid every two years.
Florida Plumber License Exam Details
Plumbing license applicants must pay examination fees. Florida’s exams, which are administered by Professional Testing Inc., come with a $135 registration fee, an $80 Business and Finance test fee, and an $80 Trade Knowledge Test fee.
On the Trade Knowledge test, an applicant must score 112 out of 160 points to pass. To pass the Business and Finance exam, candidates must answer 84 out of 120 questions correctly. Visit the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s FAQ page for additional information on testing requirements.
Who Issues Florida Plumbing Licenses?
As previously stated, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation is responsible for the issuance and renewal of Florida plumbing licenses. Visit their website to learn more about licensing requirements in the state of Florida.
Certifications for Florida Plumbers
In Florida, certain certifications can help plumbers demonstrate their skills to potential clients and employers. Certifications from the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, National Inspection Testing and Certification, and other entities are not required, but they may make a plumber a bette1r candidate for employers and property owners alike.
Can I Transfer a Plumbing License to Florida?
Yes, you can transfer a plumbing license to Florida if you meet certain requirements:
● You have been licensed in another state for at least 10 years.
● Your license must be active or have been active within the last two years.
● You are applying for a similar or the same license in Florida as you hold in your home state.
You meet other requirements, such as:
● Paying a fee to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
● Getting electronic fingerprints from an approved vendor.
● Passing a background check.
● Submitting a personal credit report.
● Submitting a credit report for your business if you plan to operate through a business entity.
● Having commercial general liability insurance.
● Having workers’ compensation insurance or being exempt.
Florida’s DBPR regulates plumbing licenses and ensures that plumbers adhere to industry standards and state building codes.
Related Links
Plumbing License Guides By State
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