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If you are mechanically inclined and you’re looking for an in-demand profession where you can earn a good living, becoming a mechanical contractor could be just the right fit. With options to work in residential and commercial arenas, this job offers a versatile and rewarding career path.

Before you can get to work, you’ll first need to obtain a mechanical contractor license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Here’s what you need to know to get started.

What You Can Do With a Mechanical Contractor License

This license may seem similar to a Class A HVAC contractor, but there are some differences. Both types of licenses permit you to do the following work on HVAC systems:

• Installation
• Fabrication
• Maintenance
• Alteration
• Repairs
• Design
• Extension

In addition, both professions include performing these activities on ductwork within the scope of HVAC systems. With a mechanical contractor license, however, you may also work on the following (if not expressly prohibited by law):

• Piping
• Piping insulation
• Vessels and ducts
• Pneumatic control piping
• Gasoline tanks, pump installations, and related piping
• Pressure and process piping
• Air piping
• Oxygen lines
• Standpipes
• Liquefied petroleum gas and natural gas fuel lines (within buildings)
• Vacuum line piping

A range of activities may be performed with this license that are either not covered or expressly prohibited with a Class A HVAC contractor license.

Requirements to Become a Mechanical Contractor

There are several requirements you must fulfill to obtain a mechanical contractor license in Florida. First, you must complete suitable education and/or experience, including one of the following:

• Four-year construction-related degree from an accredited college plus one year of applicable work experience
• Three years of college credits plus one year of experience as a foreman
• Two years of college credits plus one year as a worker and one year as a foreman
• One year of college credits plus two years as a worker and one year as a foreman
• Four years of work experience, including at least one year as a foreman

You must also supply proof of general liability insurance along with a credit report, and you must submit to a background check and fingerprinting. Finally, you must pass two state exams.

The Business and Finance Exam consists of 120 questions. You will have 6.5 hours to complete it, and you must answer a minimum of 70% (84) of the questions correctly to pass. The Mechanical Contractor Exam features 130 questions, and you will have 7.5 hours to complete it. Again, you must answer 70% (91) of the questions correctly to pass. Both tests are open-book.

The Right Exam Prep Program

Taking the next step in your career involves passing state exams. The best way to do that is with the help of an exam prep program tailored to working professionals, with 24/7 online access that fits your busy schedule.

Are you ready to test for your mechanical contractor license in Florida? RocketCert has the exam prep you need. Contact us now to learn more and get on track for continuing success in your career.