Florida Certified Residential Pool/Spa Servicing Specialty Contractor License

This is the Florida pool license for residential service and repair work, not new pool construction. That distinction matters because DBPR treats this specialty as a statewide credential that can contract directly with consumers, while also keeping it separate from the broader residential and commercial construction categories.

What the specialty covers

DBPR's FAQ says the certified residential pool/spa servicing specialty license is limited to residential pools, spas, and hot tubs. The Board points contractors to Rule 61G4-15.040, F.A.C., for the full scope and makes clear that this license is different from the older swimming pool specialty subcontractor licenses that cannot contract directly with the public.

What the application turns on

• Application fee by filing window: $145 from September 1 of an odd year through April 30 of an even year, and $245 from May 1 of an even year through August 31 of an odd year.
• Fingerprints: DBPR requires electronic fingerprints for the initial filing.
• Financial responsibility: The packet requires a FICO-derived credit report, with the 14-hour financial-responsibility course only if the score is below 660.
• Experience path: The packet includes the standard certified-contractor qualification routes, including the common 4-year worker or foreman path with at least 1 year as a foreman.
• Servicing-course option: The 5-AE packet also allows qualification through a board-approved 60-hour pool/spa servicing course plus at least 1 year of proven experience tied to the servicing scope.

Renewal and upgrade path

• Renewal cycle: August 31 of even-numbered years.
• Renewal fee: $205, plus $50 when the license qualifies a business entity.
• Continuing education: 14 hours each renewal cycle, including 1 hour of pool electrical requirements.
• Upgrade path: An active certified pool/spa servicing contractor may take the residential pool exam after 3 years of active certification and the commercial pool exam after 4 years of active certification.

Working without the right license

Florida's unlicensed-contracting statute applies here too. A first violation is generally a first-degree misdemeanor. Repeat violations and violations committed during a declared state of emergency can escalate to third-degree felonies.