Frequently Asked Questions


How do I know if I am hiring a reputable contractor?

First, is the person you are dealing with licensed? If you aren’t sure you can call Contractor Licensing at (850) 248-8350 or the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation at 1-800-342-7940. Choosing a Contractor will give you a few simple guidelines to follow.

What exam categories does Bay County offer?

Contractor Licensing offers the following examination categories:

General Contractor
Building Contractor
Residential Contractor
Sheet Metal Contractor
Roofing Contractor Unlimited
Class A Air Conditioning
Class B Air Conditioning
Commercial Pool/Spa
Residential Pool/Spa
Swimming Pool/Spa Service
Unlimited Electrical
Limited Electrical
Mechanical Contractor
Alarm System Contractor I
Alarm System Contractor II
Lighting Maintenance Specialty
Sign Specialty Electrical
Low Voltage Systems Specialty
Utility Line Electrical
Plumbing Contractor
Home Improvement Specialty
Aluminum Erection Specialty
Sign-Non Electrical Specialty
Marine Specialty Contractor
Gas Specialty
Journeyman Electrical
Journeyman Mechanical
Journeyman Air Conditioning
Journeymen Gas
Journeyman Plumber

How much will my initial Bay County contractor license / competency card cost; and what are the annual renewal fees?


Contractor Licenses / Competency Card Initial Registration Fees:
General Contractor $75
Building Contractor (per F.S. 489)$50
Residential (F.S. 489), plumbing, electrical, mechanical,
roofing, pool, specialty contractors
$25
Journeyman Tradesman $10
Contractor Licenses / Competency Card Initial Renewal Fees:
Bay County resident $50
Out of county $150
Out of state $300
Inactive status 1/2 renewal fee
Journeymen tradesman $10
Administrative fee for state certified contractors $25

Does Bay County reciprocate contractor licenses with other counties?

Yes. If exam and experience requirements are the same as Bay County. If you are interested in a reciprocal license, you will need to submit an application for approval.

Can I renew my Bay County Competency Card by mail?

Yes. Renewal of your competency card may be done by mail. Simply download the Renewal by Mail form, complete the form, attach a copy of last year’s competency card and current insurance information, include the appropriate payment as indicated on the form and mail to Bay County Builders Services.


Contractor Licensing Home Page »