What happens if I operate without a Fire Protection System Contractor certificate?

Operating without a current certificate is unlawful and subject to enforcement, including injunctions and penalties ( s. 633.336, F.S. ; s. 633.342, F.S. ).

How do I schedule the exam?

Submit DFS‑K3‑23 with the exam fee; the Division administers contractor exams pursuant to s. 633.318, F.S. and will provide exam scheduling details.

Applications are submitted using official State Fire Marshal forms per the instructions in the License/Permit Information Packet and Regulatory Licensing page. Check those pages for the most current submission options.

Is NICET certification mandatory for all fire protection services in Florida?

No. NICET Level II (or equivalent) is mandated by statute for Water‑Based Fire Protection Inspector permits held by employees inspecting systems, not for the contractor certificate itself ( s. 633.318(10)–(11), F.S. ; State Fire Marshal CEU/permit guidance ).

What type of liability insurance is required?

At minimum, comprehensive general liability insurance of $500,000 (Contractor I, II, III, or V) or $250,000 (Contractor IV) is required; use the State Fire Marshal insurance certification form ( s. 633.318(4), F.S. ; DFS‑K3‑25 ).

Florida Fire Protection License

Licensing Requirements

Fire Protection Services License Requirements in Florida — Full checklist of Florida requirements, fees, and steps.
Fire Protection Services License in Alabama
Fire Protection Services License in Arkansas
Fire Protection Services License in Georgia
Fire Protection Services Licensing — All States — State-by-state fire protection services licensing overview.

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