Is a Carpenter Different than a General Contractor?  

A carpenter is not a general contractor but is usually employed by one. Often, they are a sub-contractor. However, a carpenter can be a type of contractor. General contractors provide carpenters, and other workers, with jobs to do and instructions and oversee projects. In Florida, you may need a contractor’s license to work ad a carpenter depending on what you do during a project.  

According to the Florida DBPR, you won’t need a state license if you do non-structural work like minor carpentry like door repairs and paneling. However, always check to see if you need a license for the work you want to do. The state carpenter license requirements require you to pass exams.  

Carpenters construct, install and repairs structures from wood and other materials; they work on homes, buildings, kitchens, bridges, highways, and more. A carpenter’s skills can be huge to a project. Some carpenters know how to frame walls, put in doors, put in windows, build stairs, install molding, install cabinets, build tunnel bracing, build concrete tunnels, replace glass, replace tiles, repair furniture, change locks, move machinery and more. 

It is a very physically demanding job. Carpenters do a lot of heavy lifting, standing, bending, kneeling, climbing, and more. They work with a lot of sharp, heavy, and rough materials so safety is a concern. 

After high school, many people interested in becoming a carpenter will work with a carpenter or attend a trade or vocational school. Some companies offer apprenticeships to people to learn the craft of carpentry; these apprenticeships combine classroom studies with on-the-job training. These programs are usually three to four years. 

Skills needed and required of a carpenter include good hand-eye coordination, physical fitness, manual dexterity, balance, good at math, and more. 

If your state requires a license to be a carpenter, it’s essential you get one, or else you will be working illegally. By being licensed, this shows you have experience, that you’ve passed certain tests, and you know the laws. 

If you’re looking to get a Florida contractor’s license, let us help! If you want to be a carpenter, we can let you know what licenses you need to practice and work legally.  

At Licenses, Etc., we are a team of professionals who have helped thousands of contractors get their license, so they are able to work. We make the process easy and fast for you. To learn more, click our Florida Contractor’s License page or call 239-777-1028.