The journey to becoming a licensed General Contractor in the state of Florida is marked by a significant milestone: passing the required Florida Contractor Exam. Recognized for its challenging structure and comprehensive scope, this exam ensures that contractors meet the highest standards of professionalism and expertise in the construction industry.
While the difficulty of the the Florida Contractor Exam is subjective, it largely depends on your preparation, understanding of the subject matter, and ability to navigate the reference books.
Gold Coast School of Construction offers the training and test prep you need to succeed. Find online general contractor courses to pass the exam in Florida.
The Structure of the Florida Contractor Exam
The Florida Contractor Exam is an open-book exam divided into three parts: the Business and Finance Exam, the Contract Administration Exam, and the Project Management Exam. Each part focuses on a different aspect of the construction industry and Florida laws and rules, ensuring a well-rounded assessment of a candidate’s knowledge and skills.
Business and Finance Exam
This exam covers topics such as establishing contracts, managing administrative duties, and understanding financial management. It tests a candidate’s understanding of the business side of construction, ensuring that they can effectively manage a construction business.
Contract Administration Exam
This exam focuses on the specifics of contract administration in the construction industry. It covers topics such as contract negotiation, project scheduling, and project documentation. This exam ensures that a candidate can effectively manage contracts and handle the administrative aspects of a construction project.
Project Management Exam
This exam tests a candidate’s ability to manage construction projects. It covers topics such as project planning, project execution, and project control. This exam ensures that a candidate can effectively manage a construction project from start to finish.
Each of these exams is designed to ensure that licensed contractors possess the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties effectively and safely. They cover a wide range of topics, from construction laws and regulations to building codes and construction techniques.
Key Details About the Exam
Open-Book Format
The exam allows reference books, so being skilled in navigating these resources is essential.
Length and Questions
- Business and Finance Exam: 6.5 hours | 120 Questions
- Contract Administration Exam: 4.5 hours | 60 Questions
- Project Management Exam: 4.5 hours | 60 Questions
- Total questions across all three exams are 240.
Testing Centers
The exams are computer-based and conducted at Pearson Vue testing centers statewide.
Why Is the Florida Contractor Exam Considered Difficult?
Comprehensive Scope
It covers an extensive range of topics, including Florida-specific laws, regulations, and industry practices.
Application of Knowledge
The open-book format tests your ability to apply knowledge to real-world scenarios rather than relying on memorization.
Time Management
The long durations of each exam section require effective time management to answer all questions thoroughly.
How to Prepare for the Florida Contractor Exam
Passing the Florida Contractor Exam requires not just hard work but also a structured approach to preparation. Here are steps to help you succeed:
Invest in the Right Study Materials
- Purchase the approved reference books listed by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
- Highlight and tab key sections for easy navigation during the exam.
Choose a Reliable Prep Program
Programs like Gold Coast Schools provide comprehensive resources, including:
- Live class sessions (in-person or online via Zoom)
- On-demand video libraries
- Monthly weekend cram workshops
- Unlimited practice exams
Master Time Management Skills
- Take practice exams to become familiar with the format and pacing.
- Learn how to locate answers quickly in open-book references.
Understand the Exam Structure
- Prioritize mastering the Business and Finance section since it has the most questions and requires a deep understanding of financial concepts.
Join Study Groups or Forums
- Collaborate with peers to exchange tips, insights, and study strategies.
Stay Consistent with Study Efforts
- Schedule regular study sessions and track your progress to identify areas needing improvement.
The Gold Coast School of Construction Exam Prep Program
To help candidates prepare for Florida Division I and Division II Contractor exams, Gold Coast School of Construction offers several popular exam prep programs. Our exam prep program is designed to provide comprehensive training for most Florida Contractor Exams.
The Gold Coast programs offer a variety of resources to help you prepare:
- Live class sessions every weeknight offered on campus or via Zoom
- Comprehensive study guides
- Unlimited practice exams
- Monthly weekend cram workshops
- On-Demand Video Library – watch recorded classes anytime 24/7
- All included in one low tuition price which is valid for 1 full year of access
The program is designed to cover all the topics that will be tested in the exams, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the Business and Finance Exam, the Contract Administration Exam, and the Project Management Exam. The Gold Coast program offers flexibility to accommodate different learning styles and schedules. It offers both in-person and Livestream Zoom classes plus On-Demand videos, allowing you to choose the option that works best.
The Gold Coast School of Construction Exam Prep program provides the necessary resources and training to help you prepare for the test effectively, even a general contractor exam simulator . Remember, the key to passing is not memorizing facts, but understanding how to efficiently navigate the reference books. Get started on your journey to a Florida Contractor’s license today.
Join our Livestream Open House to learn all about the exam prep program and everything you need to get started. Register now.
Written by Chris Clausing. Chris Clausing is the Program Director for Gold Coast School of Construction and Curriculum and Program Innovation for Colibri Group’s Construction Education Ecosystem. Chris is a Certified General Contractor (CGC1515171) in the State of Florida with over 20 years of experience in the Construction and Inspection industries. Chris also sits as a Consensus Committee Member for the IECC helping shape the energy codes of the future as well as a LEED GA. If you have any questions, please reach out to Chris directly at Contractor@GoldCoastSchools.com.