Do you need a license to be a carpenter in Florida?

In short

Florida has no carpenter license, but contractors need a state license from the Construction Industry Licensing Board for structural work, work needing a permit, or jobs of $2,500 or more. Options include certified or registered general and building contractors and the residential contractor license; casual, minor or cosmetic work under $2,500 is exempt. Applicants need four years of experience, including one as a foreman, or a college combination, plus state exams, liability insurance and fingerprints. Licenses renew every two years with 14 hours of continuing education. Up to three years of military experience can count toward the experience requirement. Florida builds under the 8th edition Florida Building Code, based on the 2021 IRC and IBC.