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Getting in Compliance

In some cases, individuals and businesses don’t realize the work they are performing requires a Florida license. This often happens when job responsibilities expand over time, when customers ask for additional services, or when advertising language unintentionally goes beyond what a license allows.

For example, a handyman may be asked to install lighting or run wiring, not realizing that electrical work typically requires a license. A licensed professional may advertise services broadly—such as roofing, plumbing, and electrical work—without holding all required licenses. In other cases, a business owner may ask a homeowner to pull an owner-builder permit and then hire others to complete the work, not realizing that this may require a licensed contractor.

If you find yourself in a situation like this, taking steps to come into compliance as soon as possible can help protect you, your customers, and your business.

I Didn’t Realize a License Was Required. What Should I Do?

If you believe you may be performing work that requires a license, the first step is to stop performing any regulated services until you understand the licensing requirements that apply to you.

This can include situations such as:

  • Providing licensed services from an unapproved or unlicensed location
  • Offering services outside the scope of your license

To move forward, you should:

  • Review Florida’s licensing requirements for your profession or industry
  • Narrow your scope of work to services that do not require a license, if applicable
  • Apply for the appropriate license before resuming regulated work
  • Contact DBPR if you have questions about whether a license is required

Taking action early can help prevent additional violations and reduce the risk of enforcement action.

Common Compliance Issues and How to Fix Them

Many compliance issues are unintentional and can be corrected once identified. Some of the most common issues involve advertising, scope of work, and business structure.

Advertising and Marketing

Advertising regulated services without the required license—or failing to include required license information—can result in enforcement action.

This can include:

  • A website or social media page listing services that require a license, but no license number is displayed
  • Online ads or business cards promoting services you are not licensed to perform
  • Advertising that suggests you can perform work that you plan to subcontract but are not licensed to offer

To stay compliant:

  • Clearly list your license number where required
  • Ensure all advertising accurately reflects your licensed scope of work
  • Review online listings, social media profiles, and marketing materials regularly

Scope of Work

Offering or performing services outside your licensed scope, even unintentionally, may constitute unlicensed activity.

For example:

  • A makeup artist performing threading or waxing services
  • A roofer providing framing or structural repairs

To stay compliant:

  • Confirm the services you offer align with your license
  • Refer work outside your scope to properly licensed professionals

    Business Structure and Licensure

    Changes to your business name, ownership, or structure may require updates to your license.

    Compliance issues can arise when:

    • A business advertises regulated services but does not have a licensed professional associated with it
    • Ownership changes are not reported to DBPR
    • A license expires or is not renewed on time

    To stay compliant:

    • Keep DBPR informed of changes to your business
    • Ensure all required licenses remain active and current

    What If a Complaint is Filed Against Me?

    If a complaint is filed, DBPR will review the information to determine whether it is legally sufficient. If an investigation is opened, you may be contacted for additional information.

    If you receive notice of a complaint:

    • Read all correspondence carefully
    • Respond by the stated deadlines
    • Provide requested documentation
    • Consider consulting legal counsel if appropriate

    Cooperating with the process and addressing issues promptly can help resolve matters more efficiently.

      How Do I Pay a Disputed Citation?

      If you receive a citation and choose to dispute it, follow the instructions provided with the citation carefully. Disputes must be submitted within 30 days and in the manner specified.

      If the citation is upheld, payment must be made according to the instructions and deadlines provided. Failure to respond or pay may result in additional penalties or enforcement action.

      If you have questions about your citation, contact your investigator or call 850-488-6603. For questions about payments, call the Customer Contact Center at 850-487-1395.