Types of Roofing Licenses in Florida
Florida roofing licenses are categorized into two primary types: Certified and Registered. Here’s a breakdown of each license type and what they entail:
- Certified Roofer (Individual) – CILB 5-I
Certified roofers holding the CILB 5-I license are permitted to work throughout the state of Florida without needing to comply with regional testing or additional local requirements. This license allows individuals to undertake roofing projects anywhere within state borders.
- Certified Roofer (Business) – CILB 6-I
The CILB 6-I license allows businesses to operate roofing services statewide, similar to the individual certification. This license is essential for companies looking to provide roofing services across various Florida regions, free from regional restrictions.
- Registered Roofer
Registered roofers are limited to performing work within specific cities or counties where they have registered, such as Miami-Dade or Broward counties. This registration is crucial for contractors who wish to focus their services within particular localities.
For information on additional licenses, such as those for inactive status, reinstatement, status changes, or qualifying an additional business, please refer to the DBPR website.
Requirements for Obtaining a Florida Roofing License
To qualify for a roofing license in Florida, applicants must meet several requirements that demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the roofing trade, as well as their understanding of Florida building codes. The specific requirements vary depending on whether the applicant is an individual or a business.
Certified Roofer (Individual) – CILB 5-I
- Examinations: Must pass the Business/Law and General Trade Knowledge exams with a score of at least 70%.
- Experience: Accumulate at least four years of roofing experience through a combination of supervised work and education.
- Credit Report: Provide a credit report that includes a FICO score.
- Background Check: Complete a background check and submit fingerprints to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
- Insurance: Secure insurance coverage for public liability, property damage, and workers’ compensation.
- Application: Submit the CILB 5-I roofing license application.
Certified Roofer (Business) – CILB 6-I
- Examinations: Pass both the Business/Law and General Trade Knowledge exams with a minimum score of 70%.
- Experience: Have at least four years of roofing experience, including supervised work and education.
- Credit Report: Submit a credit report, including a FICO score.
- Background Check: Undergo a background check and provide fingerprints.
- Insurance: Obtain necessary insurance for public liability, property damage, and workers’ compensation.
- Application: Complete and submit the CILB 6-I roofing license application.
Registered Roofer Requirements
Miami-Dade County
- Experience: Obtain one to four years of roofing experience under the supervision of a qualified professional.
- Examination: Pass the Trade exam with a score of at least 70%.
- Insurance: Provide proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
Broward County
- Experience: Gain four years of experience as a journeyman roofer.
- Application: Submit the trade-specific roofing application and pay the necessary fees.
- Examinations: Achieve a passing score of at least 70% on both the Trade and Business & Florida Law exams.
Combinations of Education and Experience
The DBPR and CILB recognize various combinations of education and work experience to satisfy the licensing requirements:
- A four-year degree in a construction-related program from an accredited college, plus one year of roofing experience.
- At least three years of college education with one year of experience as a foreman.
- Two years of college education coupled with two years of work experience—one as a roofer and one as a foreman.
- One year of college education, two years of experience as a roofer, and one year as a foreman.
- Four years of roofing experience, including at least one year as a foreman.
- Three years of military service with one year of experience as a foreman.
- Two years of military service, one year as a roofer, and one year as a foreman.
- One year of military service with two years as a roofer and one year as a foreman.
Conclusion
Obtaining a roofing license in Florida requires meeting specific educational and experiential qualifications, along with passing relevant exams. Whether you seek to operate as an individual contractor or run a roofing business, understanding and fulfilling these requirements is essential for legal and professional operation within the state. For detailed guidance and application procedures, consult the official DBPR website.