board of Architecture and Interior Design

This page provides helpful information and examples about the types of services that must be performed by a DBPR-licensed individual or business

What services require a State of Florida license?

Architects

An Architect is someone who offers services in connection with the design and construction of commercial buildings and structures that are primarily where people live and work.  Services include planning, providing preliminary study designs, drawings and specifications, job-site inspection, and administration of construction contracts.  If you are going to hire someone to perform these services they need to be licensed.

Important Note:  The services that require licensure may be performed by other properly licensed individuals in certain circumstances.  For example, an engineer may perform architectural services that are incidental to his/her engineering practice.  However, the engineer may not use the term “architect.”  A general contractor may perform design-build services, so long as he/she utilizes the services of a licensed architect.  Please contact your local building department for clarification prior to entering into contracts for the services listed below.

These items are offered as examples of services you do need to hire a person with a Florida license and services you do not need to hire a person with a Florida license.  The list is not all inclusive.  If you have specific questions, please contact the department at 850.487.1395 or review the rules for the profession at www.myfloridalicense.com.  You should also check with your county or city to learn whether or not a local business tax receipt or certificate of competency is required for services that do not require a state license.  Please visit our Unlicensed Activity page to learn more about how you can help us combat Unlicensed Activity.