How to Verify a Florida Roofing Contractor’s License (Step-by-Step)
Use Florida’s free DBPR database to check any roofer in 5 minutes
Last updated: March 2026
Before you let anyone touch your roof, there’s one thing you absolutely must do: verify their license.
In Florida, it’s illegal to perform roofing work without a valid state license. Yet every year, unlicensed contractors scam homeowners out of thousands of dollars — taking deposits and disappearing, doing shoddy work, or leaving homeowners on the hook for unpermitted work.
Here’s exactly how to check if your roofer is legitimate.
Why License Verification Matters
A licensed Florida roofing contractor has:
What a valid license guarantees:
- ✓ Passed state examinations proving knowledge of building codes, safety requirements, and proper installation techniques
- ✓ Posted a bond or proof of insurance protecting you if something goes wrong
- ✓ A trackable record with the state, including any complaints or disciplinary actions
- ✓ Accountability — the state can revoke their license if they commit fraud or do substandard work
An unlicensed contractor has none of these protections.
If they damage your home, take your money, or do code-violating work, you have little recourse. Read more about common roofing scams in Florida.
How to Verify a License: Step-by-Step
Method 1: Online DBPR Lookup (Fastest)
Florida’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) maintains a searchable database of all licensed contractors.
Go to MyFloridaLicense.com
Visit the DBPR license search page at MyFloridaLicense.com
Select your search type
Choose “Search by Name” or “Search by License Number” depending on the information you have.
Enter the contractor’s information
- • Name search: Enter the business name or individual’s name
- • License search: Enter the license number (should start with CCC or RCC)
Click “Search” and review the results
Browse the results list to find the contractor you’re looking for.
Review the full license details
Click on the license number to see:
- • License status (Active, Inactive, Suspended, etc.)
- • License type
- • Effective and expiration dates
- • Any disciplinary actions
Method 2: Phone Verification
Prefer to talk to a person? Call DBPR directly:
(850) 487-1395
A representative can verify any contractor’s license status and tell you about complaints or disciplinary history.
Method 3: DBPR Mobile App
Verify licenses on the spot — perfect for when a contractor shows up at your door.
Download “DBPR Mobile” from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store.
Understanding Florida Roofing License Types
Not all roofing licenses are created equal. Here’s what the different types mean:
CCC — Certified Roofing Contractor
- What it means: Passed the state certification exam and can work anywhere in Florida
- License format: CCC followed by 6–7 digits (e.g., CCC1234567)
Scope: Can perform all types of roofing work statewide. This is the highest level of roofing license in Florida.
RCC — Registered Roofing Contractor
- What it means: Registered with the state but may only be licensed in specific counties
- License format: RCC followed by digits
Scope: Limited to counties where they’re registered. May have passed local (not state) exams. Verify they’re authorized to work in your county.
CGC / CBC — General & Building Contractors
- CGC (Certified General Contractor): Can perform roofing work as part of larger construction projects
- CBC (Certified Building Contractor): Similar to CGC, can include roofing in their scope
These are valid licenses, but for dedicated roofing work, a CCC license indicates specialized expertise in roofing specifically.
Red Flags: What to Watch For
When you look up a contractor, watch for these warning signs:
License Status Issues
- × “Inactive” or “Expired”: They cannot legally perform work
- × “Suspended” or “Revoked”: Serious — means the state took action against them
- × “Null and Void”: License was canceled, often for fraud or non-compliance
Disciplinary History
Click through to see if there are any disciplinary actions. Common violations include:
- × Working without proper permits
- × Abandoning projects
- × Using unlicensed subcontractors
- × Insurance or bond violations
- × Consumer complaints
Mismatched Information
- × Company name doesn’t match what they told you
- × Address is a P.O. box or out-of-state location
- × License was just issued (could be legitimate, but verify their experience)
Questions to Ask Every Roofing Contractor
Beyond license verification, ask these questions before hiring:
1. “Can I see your license?”
A legitimate contractor will happily show you their license. If they hesitate, walk away.
2. “Do you pull permits for your work?”
Florida requires permits for roof replacements and most significant repairs. The contractor (not you) should pull the permit. If they offer to skip the permit “to save money,” that’s a major red flag.
3. “Can I see your insurance certificate?”
Ask for proof of:
- ✓ General liability insurance (covers property damage)
- ✓ Workers’ compensation insurance (covers injuries to workers on your property)
Call the insurance company to verify the policy is current.
4. “Who will actually do the work?”
Some contractors subcontract everything. Ask if they use their own crews and whether subcontractors are also licensed and insured.
5. “Can I have references from recent local jobs?”
A reputable contractor can provide references from homeowners in your area. Actually call them.
What If a Contractor Can’t Provide a Valid License?
Do not hire them. No exceptions.
Common excuses from unlicensed contractors:
- × “I’m licensed in another state” — Doesn’t count in Florida
- × “I work under someone else’s license” — Illegal; each contractor needs their own license or must work as a legitimate employee
- × “I’m just doing a small job” — Even small repairs require licensing
- × “My license is being renewed” — Verify this with DBPR; if true, wait until it’s active
If someone is pressuring you to hire them without verifying their license, they’re likely a scammer. Learn more about storm chaser roofers and how to spot them.
Report Unlicensed Contractors
If you encounter someone doing roofing work without a license, report them:
How to report:
- • DBPR Unlicensed Activity Hotline: (866) 532-1440
- • Online complaint form: MyFloridaLicense.com
Reporting protects other homeowners from getting scammed.
Key References & Resources
- • MyFloridaLicense.com — Free DBPR license search database
- • DBPR Complaint Form — Report unlicensed activity online
- • DBPR Phone: (850) 487-1395 — Verify license status by phone
- • Unlicensed Activity Hotline: (866) 532-1440 — Report unlicensed contractors
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between CCC and RCC licenses?
Can a contractor from another state work in Florida?
What if a contractor says their license is being renewed?
How do I report an unlicensed contractor?
Does a contractor need a license for small roof repairs?
The Bottom Line
Verifying a roofing contractor’s license takes five minutes and could save you thousands of dollars and months of headaches. Make it a non-negotiable step before signing any contract or handing over any money.
- ✓ Always check MyFloridaLicense.com before hiring
- ✓ Look for CCC or RCC license numbers
- ✓ Verify the license is “Active” with no disciplinary actions
- ✓ Ask for insurance certificates and actually verify them
- ✓ Report unlicensed contractors to protect your community
The DBPR database is free, public, and easy to use. There’s no excuse for hiring an unlicensed roofer — and no protection if you do.
Find Verified Roofers Near You →