Difference Between CGC General Contractor vs CBC Building Contractor License in Florida
- Matthew Cannon
- Jun 13
- 7 min read
Feeling overwhelmed by the differences between a CGC General Contractor and CBC Building Contractor licenses in Florida? You're not alone. Whether you're just starting your construction career or looking to level up your credentials, making the right choice can feel like trying to solve a puzzle. At Application Specialist, we've guided thousands of professionals just like you through this decision. Our team of experienced instructors understands your concerns because we've been in your shoes. Let's cut through the confusion together and help you choose the path that best fits your career goals. Ready to take the first step?
Key Takeaways
• General Contractors (CGC) have unlimited building height capabilities and broader scope
• Building Contractors (CBC) are limited to 3-story structures but can handle most commercial/residential projects
• Both licenses require similar base qualifications but differ in experience requirements. The CGC requires at least 1 year on New construction over 3 stories.
• Residential Contractors (CGC) can build residential structures, Single Family Homes, Duplex, Townhomes up to 3 separate dwelling units
Table Of Contents
Understanding Florida Contractor Licenses
The foundation of both contractor licenses starts with the same basic requirements. You'll need to be at least 18 years old, demonstrate good moral character, and maintain a credit score of 660 or higher (there's a Financially Responsibility course option if you need it). The real distinction lies in what you can build once you're licensed.
Upgrade Method to CGC General Contractor
You can upgrade to a CGC General Contractor's license from a CRC Residential or CBC Building license. To qualify for an upgrade, you must hold the CRC or CBC license for at least four (4) years without citations or violations. Additionally, you need to have 'previously passed' the CGC trade examinations. This is why we recommend taking the CGC exam now, even if you don't meet the commercial experience requirements. When you Upgrade you're exempt from 'Employment History', meaning you don't need a 4-story building to get the CGC license.
Key Differences Between CGC and CBC Licenses
Height Limitations
The most significant difference between these licenses comes down to vertical reach. A Building Contractor license keeps you grounded at three stories or less for new construction, though you can still perform non-structural renovations on taller buildings. Meanwhile, a General Contractor license lets you reach for the sky with no height restrictions whatsoever. The GC can also do Underground Utilities & Excavation.
Project Authority
A CBC license is remarkably versatile, allowing you to handle both commercial and residential projects within its height limitations. Think of it as your ticket to tackle everything from custom homes to strip malls. The CGC license takes it further, adding capabilities like structural pool work and underground utilities across any project type.
Subcontracting Requirements and Management
Both license types require you to play well with others. Unless you hold additional certifications, you'll need to subcontract specialized work like electrical, mechanical, plumbing, roofing, and HVAC systems. The key difference lies in site work authority – CGCs can manage underground utilities anywhere, while CBCs must stick to their specific project boundaries.
Experience Requirements
Moving up to either license requires solid construction experience, but the paths differ significantly. For the CGC, you'll need to demonstrate experience with buildings over four stories under a licensed General Contractor's supervision. CBC applicants can qualify through experience with smaller commercial or residential projects, working under either a General or Building Contractor. Both paths require four years of proven experience, but it's the type of projects that makes the difference.
Examination Process
The path to licensure includes three crucial exams: Business & Finance and two trade knowledge tests. While the core content remains similar, CGC candidates face 65 questions per trade exam, while CBC applicants tackle 60. Both licenses allow 4 hours and 30 minutes per exam section, but the depth of structural questions varies based on license type.
Financial Considerations
Investing in your contractor's license is like buying tools – it's an upfront cost that pays dividends through expanded opportunities. Both licenses carry similar basic fees, but the CGC path might require higher insurance coverage due to the broader scope of potential projects.
License Maintenance and Compliance
Maintaining your license requires ongoing attention to continuing education requirements and regular renewals. Both CGC and CBC licenses need 14 hours of continuing education every two years, including mandatory courses in workplace safety, business practices, and Florida building code updates. Staying compliant isn't just about paperwork – it's about keeping your competitive edge in the industry.
Career Path Considerations
Your choice between CGC and CBC can significantly impact your future opportunities. While both licenses open doors to substantial projects, the CGC pathway provides maximum flexibility for growth. Many successful contractors start with a CBC license and upgrade to CGC after gaining experience, especially if they're interested in high-rise construction or large-scale development projects.
Building Contractor CBC | General Contractor CGC | |
Can they construct both Residential & Commercial buildings in Florida? |  | |
Can they construct buildings Four (4) stories in height and above? | CBC is 3 stories max | |
Can they do Site Work at any construction site in Florida? | CBC is limited to their jobsite | |
Can they install Underground Utilities on any site in Florida (Public or Private)? | CBC cannot do underground utility | |
Can they install a Roof on a New Building of their own construction? *Shingles only | | |
Can they excavate and construct the structure and pool shell? | CBC cannot install the pool structure | |
* A general, building, or residential contractor, except as otherwise provided in this part, shall be responsible for any construction or alteration of a structural component of a building or structure...
General Contractor (CGC) Defined “General contractor” means a contractor whose services are unlimited as to the type of work which he or she may do, who may contract for any activity requiring licensure under this part, and who may perform any work requiring licensure under this part, except as otherwise expressly provided in s. 489.113. (see below)As defined in FS 489.105 (a)
Building Contractor (CBC) Defined “Building contractor” means a contractor whose services are limited to construction of commercial buildings and single-dwelling or multiple-dwelling residential buildings, which do not exceed three (3) stories in height, and accessory use structures in connection therewith or a contractor whose services are limited to remodeling, repair, or improvement of any size building if the services do not affect the structural members of the building. As defined in FS 489.105 (b) Upgrade Method. A residential or building contractor holding an active license for a minimum of 4 years can upgrade to the General Contractor. |
Licensing Limitations for CGC & CBC
(Click to expand) - Excerpts from Florida Statute 489.113 (3)
Subcontracting Requirements
A contractor shall subcontract all electrical, mechanical, plumbing, roofing, sheet metal, swimming pool, and air-conditioning work, unless such contractor holds a state certificate or registration in the respective trade category, however:
Site Work & Underground Utilities
Any certified building contractor or certified residential contractor may perform clearing and grubbing, grading, excavation, and other site work for any construction project in this state, limited to the lot on which any specific building is located.
Any certified general contractor or certified underground utility and excavation contractor may perform clearing and grubbing, grading, excavation, and other site work for any construction project in the state.
A general contractor shall not be required to subcontract the construction of a main sanitary sewer collection system, storm collection system, or water distribution system, and may perform any of the services, on public or private property, for which a license as an underground utility and excavation contractor is required under this part.
Not including the continuation of utility lines from the mains to the buildings. A general contractor shall not be required to subcontract the continuation of utility lines from the mains in mobile home parks, and such continuations are to be considered a part of the main sewer collection and main water distribution systems.
New Shingle Roofs
A general, building, or residential contractor shall not be required to subcontract the installation, or repair made under warranty, of wood shingles, wood shakes, or asphalt or fiberglass shingle roofing materials on a new building of his or her own construction. FS 489.113 (b)
Swimming Pool Structures
A general contractor shall not be required to subcontract structural swimming pool work. All other swimming pool work shall be subcontracted to an appropriately licensed certified or registered swimming pool contractor. FS 489.113 (c)
FAQs Florida General vs Building Contractor License Differences
What is the difference between a certified general contractor and a certified building contractor?
A certified general contractor is licensed to work on a wide range of construction projects including commercial and residential buildings, while a certified building contractor focuses primarily on residential buildings and certain types of construction work. Both require a license in the state of Florida, but their scopes of work differ.
What qualifications are needed to become a licensed contractor in Florida?
To become a licensed contractor in Florida, applicants must meet specific qualifications including passing the required exams, providing proof of experience in construction, and demonstrating financial stability. For a certified general contractor, this may include a degree in construction or equivalent experience.
Can a certified general contractor handle remodeling projects?
Yes, a certified general contractor can handle remodeling projects as part of their scope of work. This includes renovations for both residential and commercial buildings, as long as they adhere to the Florida building contractor license regulations.
Are there any restrictions on the types of buildings a certified building contractor can work on?
Yes, a certified building contractor typically focuses on residential buildings and can exceed three stories in height. They are not licensed to work on commercial buildings unless they hold the necessary general contractor license.
What does it mean to be a 'licensed contractor' in Florida?
Being a licensed contractor in Florida means that the individual has met all the requirements set by the state, including passing exams and providing proof of experience. This license allows them to legally perform construction and remodeling work within the defined scope of their license type.
Conclusion
The choice between a CGC and CBC license is a pivotal decision in your construction career. While a CBC license offers a solid foundation for residential and smaller commercial projects, a CGC license opens doors to unlimited possibilities in construction. Remember, there's no wrong choice – it's about aligning your credentials with your professional goals. Florida General vs Building Contractor License Differences. We're here to help you navigate every step of your licensing journey.
Connect with us, licensing experts for a free consultation, join our upcoming preparation courses or get your questions answered. Give us a call at (407) 456-8444 or reach out to info@Application-Specialist.com to start building your future in construction today.
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