Certified vs. Registered Contractors
Florida splits its licenses into two primary tiers: Certified and Registered.
- Certified (Prefixes starting with C): These contractors have passed the rigorous State of Florida licensing exam. Their license is valid anywhere within the state boundaries. Examples: CGC (General), CCC (Roofing).
- Registered (Prefixes starting with R): These contractors hold a local county competency card (meaning they met local requirements) and subsequently "registered" that local card with the state. They are legally restricted to working ONLY in the counties where they hold a local competency card. Examples: RGC (Registered General), RCC (Registered Roofing).
Common License Acronyms
Here are the most critical designations you will encounter on Call Charlie:
- CGC / RGC (General Contractor): Unlimited in scope. They can build skyscrapers or renovate kitchens. They are responsible for the entire project and coordinate all subcontractors.
- CBC / RBC (Building Contractor): Restricted to commercial buildings and single/multiple dwelling residential buildings up to three stories tall.
- CRC / RRC (Residential Contractor): Restricted strictly to single-family and two-family residences, up to two stories tall.
- CCC / RCC (Roofing Contractor): Unlimited in the installation, repair, and replacement of roof coverings. They cannot build structural additions.
- CFC / RFC (Plumbing Contractor): Authorized for all sanitary drainage, water supply, and storm drainage systems.
- CAC / RAC (Air Conditioning Contractor): Authorized to handle HVAC systems, ductwork, and refrigeration.
- CUC (Underground Utility & Excavation): Specialized in water mains, sewer lines, and complex earthwork.
The Danger of "Handymen"
In Florida, there is no official state "Handyman" license. A handyman is legally restricted to aesthetic and minor maintenance tasks: painting, drywall patching, cabinet installation, and basic flooring. A handyman cannot legally touch load-bearing walls, run new electrical circuits, alter plumbing lines, or repair a roof.