What Are Florida Construction & Contractor License
Bonds?
Florida requires several construction‑related surety bonds to protect project owners, subcontractors, suppliers, and the public. These bonds ensure contractors follow Florida laws, honor contracts, and complete work properly.
This page covers:
- Florida Bid Bonds
- Florida Performance & Payment Bonds
- Florida Contractor License Bonds
- Florida Pre‑Qualification Bonds
Each bond type supports a different stage of the construction process.
Florida Bid Bond
A Florida Bid Bond guarantees that a contractor will honor their bid and sign the contract if awarded the project. It protects project owners from:
- Bid withdrawal
- Refusal to sign the contract
- Failure to provide performance & payment bonds
Typical Pricing: Most bid bonds are issued at no cost for qualified contractors.
Florida Performance & Payment Bond
Florida Performance & Payment Bonds guarantee:
- The project will be completed according to contract
- Subcontractors and suppliers will be paid
These bonds are required for:
- Public works projects
- Many private commercial projects
- General contractors and specialty trades
Typical Pricing: Rates typically range from 1%–3% of the contract amount for qualified applicants.
Florida Contractor License Bond
Florida requires a Contractor License Bond for certain license types, including:
- Division I contractors (general, building, residential)
- Division II contractors (specialty trades)
- Financially Responsible Officer (FRO) bonds
These bonds ensure compliance with Florida construction laws and licensing rules.
Typical Pricing: Most contractor license bonds cost $100–$500 annually, depending on credit and bond amount.
Florida Pre‑Qualification Bond
Some Florida public agencies require a Pre‑Qualification Bond to verify a contractor’s:
- Financial strength
- Experience
- Ability to complete future projects
This bond strengthens a contractor’s eligibility for bidding.
Typical Pricing: Most pre‑qualification bonds cost 1%–3% of the bond amount.
Florida Construction Bond Cost
Your premium depends on:
- Bond type
- Bond amount
- Credit score
- Financial history
- Project size (for contract bonds)
General Pricing Ranges:
- Bid Bonds: Often free
- Performance & Payment Bonds: 1%–3% of contract
- Contractor License Bonds: $100–$500 annually
- Pre‑Qualification Bonds: 1%–3% of bond amount
Who Needs a Florida Construction Bond?
You need a construction bond in Florida if you are:
- A general contractor
- A subcontractor
- A specialty trade contractor
- A construction company bidding public or private work
- A contractor applying for or renewing a Florida license
Florida Construction Bond Requirements
Florida requires:
- Completed bond application
- Credit review
- Financial statements (for larger contract bonds)
- Bond amount based on license or project size
- Filing with the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) or project owner
How to Get a Construction Bond
1
Complete the Application
Submit contractor information, financials, and project details.
2
Secure the Lowest Rate
Matched with the best pricing from A‑rated sureties.
3
Receive your bond
Issued digitally for immediate filing; larger performance bonds may require deeper underwriting.
Why Choose Us for Your Construction Bonds
- Lowest rates from A‑rated sureties
- Fast approvals
- Digital delivery for immediate filing
- Dedicated construction bond specialists
- 100% compliance guaranteed
Top Construction Bond Questions Answered
Our most common questions answered efficiently.
Yes. Federal and state laws mandate bonding for most public works.
Yes. Programs exist for new and growing contractors.
Indirectly. They help win jobs, but the protection is for owners and subcontractors.
The surety may complete the project or compensate the owner.
Sureties review credit, but bonds do not appear as debt.
