Florida HVAC contractors must be licensed. Contractors must meet education and experience requirements, pass a state exam and background check, provide proof of financial stability, and carry liability insurance. Operating without a license is a crime as explained in Florida Statute 489.127. A first offense is a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Repeat offenses can escalate to third-degree felony charges, punishable by $5,000 and 5 years in prison.
All construction licensing in Florida is managed by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The DBPR oversees the licensing and regulation of construction contractors, ensuring they meet the necessary qualifications and standards to operate within the state. The Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), handles the process of licensing construction contractors by verifying education and experience requirements, administering examinations and ensuring legal compliance.