Embarking on a career as a building contractor in Florida is an exciting venture. Before you can start managing projects, however, you need to get licensed. This process involves passing a state-specific Business and Finance exam plus multiple comprehensive open-book exams to prove your competency.
For aspiring contractors in Florida, a key decision is whether to take the state-specific Florida Building License Trade Exams (there are two trade exams required for the state option – Contract Administration and Project Management) or the broader NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial Building Contractors (NASCLA replaces both trade exams in Florida – only one trade exam instead of two).
Each path has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the differences in portability, exam focus, cost, and preparation is crucial to making the right choice for your career goals. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Florida Building License Exam versus the NASCLA exam.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Florida Builder Exam vs. NASCLA
What is the Florida Building License Exam?
The Florida Building License Exams are state-specific tests developed by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and include the Contract Administration exam and the Project Management exam. Passing these exams, along with the Florida Business and Finance exam, is a mandatory step to becoming a certified building contractor within Florida.
You can learn more about the process in our guide on how to get a Florida certified building contractor license.
The exams are designed to test your knowledge of Florida’s unique building codes, wind mitigation requirements, laws and rules, and construction practices. It ensures that contractors are prepared to build safely and effectively in the state’s specific environmental conditions, such as its hurricane-prone climate.
Pros of Taking the Florida Exams
- Tailored to Florida: The content is directly relevant to the work you will be doing in the state. You will gain deep knowledge of the Florida Building Code, which is essential for local success.
- Direct Path to Florida Licensure: It’s the state-specific route to becoming a contractor if your career ambitions are solely focused on Florida.
- Focused Study: Your preparation is concentrated on a single set of regulations and standards, which can make studying more manageable.
Cons of the Florida Exam
- Limited Portability: A license obtained through passing the Florida exams is only valid in Florida. If you decide to move or expand your business to another state, you will likely need to go through that state’s entire licensing process, including taking another trade exam or exams.
What is the NASCLA Exam?
The National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA) offers an accredited examination for commercial building contractors that replaces the two Florida-specific trade exams. This exam is designed to serve as a universal benchmark for contractor competency and is accepted by several states, including Florida.
Instead of being tied to one state, the NASCLA exam is accepted by numerous state licensing boards across the country (17 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands).
Passing the NASCLA exam doesn’t automatically grant you a license. You still need to apply for licensure in each state where you want to work and meet their specific requirements, which usually includes passing a state-specific business and law exam.
Pros of Taking the NASCLA Exam
- Exceptional Portability: This is the biggest advantage. The NASCLA exam is accepted for the trade portion of licensing in 17 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
- Broad Knowledge Base: The exam covers general building principles and model codes, such as the International Building Code (IBC).
- Streamlined Multi-State Licensing: If your company operates across several states, having a NASCLA accreditation can simplify licensing in each new location.
Cons of the NASCLA Exam
- Not a Standalone License: Passing the NASCLA exam is just one step.
- Broader Scope of Study: The exam covers a wider range of material than a single state exam.
- Florida Still Requires a Business Exam: Even with NASCLA, you must pass the Florida Business and Finance exam.
Which Exam Should You Take?
The decision ultimately depends on your long-term career aspirations.
Choose the Florida Building License Exam if:
- You are certain you want to live and work only in Florida.
- You prefer a more direct path to licensure.
- You want to specialize in the Florida Building Code.
Choose the NASCLA Exam if:
- You want flexibility to work in other states.
- Your business plans include expansion into other southeastern states.
- You value a nationally recognized credential.
Prepare for Success with Gold Coast School of Construction
Regardless of which path you choose, proper preparation is the key to passing your exams on the first try. At Gold Coast School of Construction, we provide the expert instruction and resources you need to succeed.
With over 50 years of experience, we have helped more than two million students achieve their professional goals.
Our courses are designed to simplify complex topics, guide you through the required reference books, and provide you with practice questions that mirror the actual exam.
Ready to get started?
- For comprehensive preparation for the Florida Building License Exams, explore our Florida building contractor license courses.
- For expert guidance on the NASCLA Accredited Examination, visit our partner NASCLA commercial builder exam prep programs from Contractor Training Center.
Making the right choice today can open up a world of opportunities tomorrow. Contact Gold Coast School of Construction to speak with one of our career counselors and chart the best course for your future in the construction industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
▸ What exams do I need to become a Florida Certified Building Contractor?
Applicants must complete the required trade exam path and pass the Florida Business and Finance exam as part of the licensure process. For many applicants, that means taking the Florida Contract Administration and Project Management exams, while others may use the NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial Building Contractors in place of those trade exams.
▸ Does Florida accept the NASCLA exam?
Yes. Florida accepts the NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial Building Contractors as a replacement for the two Florida trade exams.
▸ Do I still need to take the Florida Business and Finance exam if I choose NASCLA?
Yes. Even if you choose NASCLA for the trade exam portion, Florida still requires the Florida Business and Finance exam to obtain licensure.
▸ What is the difference between the Florida trade exams and NASCLA?
The Florida trade exams focus on Florida-specific building codes and regulations, while the NASCLA exam is based on national construction standards such as the International Building Code and is accepted by multiple states.
▸ How many states accept the NASCLA exam?
The NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial Building Contractors is accepted for licensing in 17 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
▸ Is NASCLA worth it if I only plan to work in Florida?
If you only plan to work in Florida, the Florida trade exams may be the more direct path to licensure. NASCLA is most beneficial for contractors who want the flexibility to work in multiple states.