When hiring a roofing contractor in Florida, you will encounter two types of state licenses that authorize roofing work: CCC and CGC. Understanding what each license means helps you verify that your contractor is legally qualified and protects you from unlicensed operators who put your home and investment at risk.
CCC: Certified Roofing Contractor
The CCC license is issued by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) specifically for roofing contractors. To obtain a CCC license, an applicant must pass the Certified Roofing Contractor examination, demonstrate at least one year of roofing experience or a four-year construction-related degree, provide proof of financial stability including a $10,000 surety bond, and carry workers' compensation and general liability insurance.
The CCC exam tests specialized knowledge in roofing systems, materials, installation methods, Florida Building Code roofing sections, estimating, safety, and business practices. It is a rigorous exam with a pass rate of approximately 50 percent.
What a CCC can do. A CCC-licensed contractor can install, repair, replace, and maintain all types of roofing systems including shingles, tile, metal, flat membrane, and specialty roofing. They can also install directly related components like gutters, drip edge, flashing, skylights, roof vents, and underlayment. A CCC can pull roofing permits in any Florida jurisdiction without needing a local registration (this is the benefit of a state-level certification).
What a CCC cannot do. A CCC license does not authorize structural work beyond what is directly related to the roofing system. A CCC cannot frame walls, pour concrete, install windows, or perform other general construction tasks. If a re-roofing project reveals significant structural damage to trusses or rafters, the CCC can repair these components only to the extent necessary to complete the roofing installation.
CGC: Certified General Contractor
The CGC license is the broadest construction license in Florida. It authorizes the holder to construct, renovate, or repair any commercial or residential structure, including all building systems. This includes roofing.
To obtain a CGC license, an applicant must pass the Certified General Contractor examination (a more comprehensive exam covering all building trades), demonstrate construction experience, provide a $20,000 surety bond, and carry appropriate insurance.
What a CGC can do. A CGC-licensed contractor can perform any type of construction or renovation work, including roofing. Many general contractors have roofing crews or subcontract roofing work as part of larger renovation or new construction projects. A CGC pulling a roofing permit is fully legal and common.
When a CGC does roofing. General contractors typically handle roofing when it is part of a larger project such as a home addition, renovation, or new construction where the roof is one component of the overall scope. Some general contractors also specialize in roofing and operate primarily as roofers while holding the broader CGC license.
Which License Should Your Roofer Have?
For a standalone roofing project like a re-roof, either a CCC or CGC license is valid. Both authorize the contractor to pull permits, perform the work, and pass inspections. However, there are practical considerations.
Specialization matters. A CCC holder has passed a roofing-specific exam and typically focuses exclusively on roofing. This specialization often translates to deeper knowledge of roofing materials, installation techniques, manufacturer warranty requirements, and roofing-specific code provisions. A CGC who primarily does general construction may have less specialized roofing expertise.
Manufacturer certifications. Major shingle manufacturers like GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed offer certified installer programs (Master Elite, Platinum Preferred, SELECT ShingleMaster) that provide enhanced warranties. These certifications are available to both CCC and CGC holders, but contractors who specialize in roofing are more likely to maintain these certifications because roofing is their primary business.
Insurance and bonding. Both license types require insurance and bonding, but the amounts differ. Verify that your contractor's insurance is current and adequate for your project by requesting a certificate of insurance. The certificate should show general liability coverage of at least $1 million per occurrence and workers' compensation coverage for all employees.
How to Verify a License
Verifying a Florida contractor's license takes less than two minutes at myfloridalicense.com. Click "Verify a License," enter the contractor's name or license number, and review the results. Look for an active status showing "Current, Active." Check for any disciplinary actions, complaints, or citations. Verify that the license type (CCC or CGC) matches what the contractor claims. Confirm the licensee name matches the contract and business name.
If a contractor cannot provide a license number, refuses to show proof of licensure, or their license shows anything other than "Current, Active" status, do not hire them. Report suspected unlicensed contractors to the DBPR at 1-866-532-1440.
Why This Matters for Your Project
Hiring a properly licensed contractor protects you in several important ways. Licensed contractors must carry insurance that protects you from liability. Licensed work qualifies for the state Construction Industries Recovery Fund, which compensates homeowners up to $50,000 if a licensed contractor fails to complete the work. Licensed contractors are accountable to the DBPR and can face license suspension or revocation for poor workmanship or misconduct. Permitted work by licensed contractors is inspected by the local building department, ensuring code compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a CCC and CGC license in Florida?
CCC (Certified Roofing Contractor) is roofing-only. CGC (Certified General Contractor) covers all construction including roofing. Both can legally perform roofing work.
How do I verify a Florida roofing contractor's license?
Visit myfloridalicense.com, click "Verify a License," and enter the contractor's name or license number. Look for "Current, Active" status and check for any disciplinary actions.
Can an unlicensed person do roofing work in Florida?
No. Unlicensed contracting is a third-degree felony in Florida. Hiring unlicensed roofers voids insurance coverage, recovery fund protection, and may require work removal.