How to Renew Your Florida Contractor License (2026 Step-by-Step Guide)

If your Florida contractor license is approaching expiration, delaying renewal can lead to lost work, penalties, or an inactive license. The process itself is straightforward. Most of it can be completed online once you understand the required steps and complete your continuing education.

This guide explains exactly how to renew your Florida contractor license efficiently and stay compliant.

Why Renewing on Time Matters

Failing to renew your license on time can impact your ability to operate legally.

Common consequences include:

• Late fees and administrative penalties
• License status changing to delinquent or inactive
• Delays in permitting and inspections
• Loss of current or future contracts

Maintaining an active license is required to continue working legally in Florida.

Step 1: Check Your License Expiration Date

Florida contractor licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal deadline depends on your license type:

• Certified contractors renew by August 31 of even-numbered years
• Registered contractors renew by August 31 of odd-numbered years

Although the state typically sends reminders, it is important to confirm your expiration date independently. You can check your license status and expiration date at any time through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation online portal by searching your license number or name.

Step 2: Complete Your 14 Hours of Continuing Education

Florida requires 14 hours of continuing education before renewal.

These hours typically include:

• Workplace safety
• Business practices
• Laws and rules
• Workers’ compensation
• Advanced or specialty topics

Completing your CE efficiently

You can complete all required hours in one course rather than taking multiple classes in our Florida contractor CILB course.

Key advantages:

• Fully online format
• Self-paced completion
• Covers all required topics
• No scheduling or travel required
• Reported directly to the state

Completing your CE early reduces the risk of delays during renewal.

Step 3: Log Into the DBPR Portal

Once your CE is complete, access the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation online portal.

Steps:

1. Log in or create an account
2. Locate your license
3. Verify your contact and business information

This portal is used to submit and track your renewal.

Step 4: Submit Your Renewal Application

After verifying your information:

• Complete the renewal application
• Pay the renewal fee
• Submit your application online

In most cases, your continuing education provider will report your completed hours directly to the state.

Step 5: Maintain Active License Status

To avoid complications:

• Complete continuing education well before the deadline
• Confirm your information is accurate
• Submit your renewal before August 31
• Keep your contact details current

Failure to renew on time may result in an inactive license, which can delay your ability to work.

Complete Your Renewal Without Delays

The most efficient way to renew your Florida contractor license is to handle the steps in order and complete your continuing education early.

Recommended process:

1. Complete your continuing education
2. Log into the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation portal
3. Submit your renewal application

For most contractors, the primary time commitment is completing the 14-hour continuing education requirement.

Florida Construction Contractor Continuing Education 14-Hour Online Course

Complete your required Florida contractor continuing education online in one self-paced course.

View Course