1. Handyman (small repairs)
- Home and yard
- Florida median $46,060
Fix small things around homes and rentals, like patching, hanging doors, assembling furniture, and minor repairs.
State license: No state contractor license for casual, minor jobs under $2,500 total (DBPR Construction Industry Licensing Board). Bigger or permitted work needs a licensed contractor.
Limits and rules: Each job must be casual, minor, or inconsequential and under $2,500 for labor and materials combined. You can't split a bigger job to stay under the limit, and you can't advertise yourself as a contractor. Work that needs a permit usually doesn't qualify.
Steps for this business: Check with your city or county building department about whether a job qualifies and about any local licensing. Don't use the word contractor in ads.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, maintenance and repair workers, general: median $46,060 a year ($22.15 an hour). The top 10% earn $67,680 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- DBPR says handyman jobs under $2,500 in total construction costs are exempt from state licensing when they are casual, minor, or inconsequential. (source)
- DBPR says to check with your building department about whether a job qualifies and about local licensing. (source)
- Work that needs a permit usually isn't considered casual or minor. (source)
- The exemption doesn't apply if a bigger job is split into smaller contracts to get under $2,500. (source)
- The exemption doesn't apply to someone who advertises as a contractor. (source)
2. House painting
- Home and yard
- Florida median $47,530
Paint interior rooms, trim, fences, and exteriors for homeowners and landlords.
State license: No state license for painting, per DBPR Construction Industry Licensing Board.
Limits and rules: Painting itself is not state-licensed, but repairs that go along with it (like structural or permitted work) fall under contractor rules. Wash water and paint must not go into storm drains.
Steps for this business: Ask your city or county about any local rules. Keep rinse water and paint out of storm drains.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, painters, construction and maintenance: median $47,530 a year ($22.85 an hour). The top 10% earn $61,300 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- DBPR lists paint and wallpaper among work that does not need a state license. (source)
- Other small repair work on the same job is only exempt if it is casual or minor and under $2,500. (source)
- Work that needs a permit usually isn't considered casual or minor. (source)
3. Pool cleaning
- Home and yard
- Florida median $34,490
Weekly pool service: skimming, brushing, vacuuming, and adding chemicals using the pool's existing equipment.
State license: Using existing equipment to clean and treat water does not require a license under Florida law. Repairs, equipment replacement, and cleaning that requires taking equipment apart need a DBPR swimming pool/spa contractor license.
Limits and rules: Without a pool/spa contractor license you can't repair or replace pool equipment, install new equipment, refinish interiors, or do cleaning that needs partial disassembly (filter changes are excluded from that).
Steps for this business: Keep to cleaning and water treatment, and refer repairs to a licensed pool/spa servicing contractor.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, janitors and cleaners, except maids and housekeeping cleaners: median $34,490 a year ($16.58 an hour). The top 10% earn $42,930 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Using pool equipment for cleaning or water treatment does not require a license unless it involves construction or modification. (source)
- Installing or replacing equipment attached to a pool for water treatment or cleaning requires a license. (source)
- Pool/spa servicing contractors handle repair and servicing of pools and hot tubs. (source)
- Licensed servicing work includes cleaning that needs partial disassembly, except filter changes. (source)
4. Lawn care and mowing
- Home and yard
- Florida median $37,100
Mow, edge, trim, and fertilize lawns for homeowners and businesses.
State license: Mowing is not covered by these FDACS rules. Anyone applying commercial fertilizer to lawns or landscapes for hire needs the FDACS Limited Certification for Urban Landscape Commercial Fertilizer Application. Applying weed killer or bug killer needs a pest control license or limited certification.
Training: Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMP) training is required before the fertilizer certification; the state runs or approves the course with UF/IFAS.
Fees: FDACS: Limited Urban Fertilizer Certificate issuance fee $25 (4-year license).
Limits and rules: The fertilizer certificate does not allow pesticides, including weed-and-feed mixes, and does not allow running a pest control business. Yard workers who only use the homeowner's own fertilizer and equipment are exempt.
Steps for this business: Take GI-BMP training, then apply to FDACS with the training certificate and fee. Renew every 4 years with 4 hours of continuing education.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, landscaping and groundskeeping workers: median $37,100 a year ($17.84 an hour). The top 10% earn $47,390 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- FDACS requires all commercial fertilizer applicators to be certified, including for residential turf and plants. (source)
- You must show Green Industry Best Management Practices training before getting the certificate. (source)
- The FDACS issuance fee is $25 for a 4-year certificate. (source)
- Before renewing, you need 4 classroom hours of continuing education, at least 2 on fertilizer best practices. (source)
- The certificate does not allow pesticides on turf or plants, including pesticide-fertilizer mixes. (source)
- Yard workers using only the homeowner's fertilizer and equipment are exempt. (source)
- The state, with UF/IFAS, provides the urban landscape best practices training. (source)
5. Landscape bed maintenance (with weed control)
- Home and yard
- Florida median $37,100
Weed, mulch, and care for flower beds and shrubs, including spot-spraying weeds in beds.
State license: Spraying herbicides or other pesticides as part of landscape work needs the FDACS Limited Certification for Commercial Landscape Maintenance (or a full pest control license).
Training: Pass an FDACS exam (in person or remote); renew yearly with 4 classroom hours of continuing education.
Fees: FDACS: exam and issuance fee $150 (annual license); renewal $75; late renewal $50.
Limits and rules: Only handheld or backpack sprayers, no power equipment. No pesticides on lawns or turf, and you can't run a pest control business.
Steps for this business: Apply to FDACS for the exam, pass it, show a certificate of insurance, and keep records of what you treated.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, landscaping and groundskeeping workers: median $37,100 a year ($17.84 an hour). The top 10% earn $47,390 or more.
Heads-up: An older FDACS flyer (Rev 03/20) lists 3- and 5-gallon sprayer limits; the current statute says handheld and backpack sprayers without power equipment. The card follows the current statute.
Official page
What the official pages say
- FDACS says the limited landscape certification covers ornamental plants and plant beds only, not turf. (source)
- The exam and issuance fee is $150 and renewal is $75. (source)
- Equipment is limited to handheld and backpack sprayers, with no power equipment. (source)
- The certificate expires after 1 year. (source)
- FDACS offers the exam in person and remotely. (source)
- You must show proof of insurance before the certificate is issued. (source)
6. Tree trimming
- Home and yard
- Florida median $46,070
Prune and trim trees and shrubs for homeowners.
Limits and rules: Florida has no state arborist license on these pages; the statute relies on private ISA arborist certification. A homeowner can skip local tree permits only with documentation from an ISA-certified arborist or a Florida licensed landscape architect that the tree is an unacceptable risk.
Steps for this business: Check your city or county tree rules before cutting. Consider ISA arborist certification if you want to provide risk assessments.
State license: No official Florida page found that says either way. Check with DBPR before you start.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, tree trimmers and pruners: median $46,070 a year ($22.15 an hour). The top 10% earn $58,210 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Florida law refers to arborists certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). (source)
- Local governments can't require a permit for trimming or removing a residential tree if the owner has documentation that it poses an unacceptable risk. (source)
- The documentation must come from an ISA-certified arborist or a Florida licensed landscape architect. (source)
- This rule does not apply to mangrove protection. (source)
7. Pest control
- Home and yard
- Florida median $44,320
Treat homes and yards for bugs, rodents, termites, and lawn pests.
State license: FDACS pest control business license is required, and the business must employ a Florida-certified operator in charge. Workers carry FDACS identification cards.
Training: To sit for the certified operator exam you need a high school education plus 3 years of experience with a licensee (or a related degree plus 1 year).
Fees: FDACS: business license $300; employee ID card $10 each; certified operator exam $300 per category; annual operator certificate renewal $150.
Limits and rules: Required insurance: $250,000 per person and $500,000 per occurrence bodily injury, and $250,000 per occurrence and $500,000 aggregate property damage (or $500,000 combined). Limited certifications do not allow running a pest control business.
Steps for this business: Work under a licensed company to gain experience, pass the FDACS exam in your category, then license the business location with insurance.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, pest control workers: median $44,320 a year ($21.31 an hour). The top 10% earn $61,890 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Each pest control business location must be licensed by FDACS. (source)
- The business must employ a full-time Florida-certified operator in charge. (source)
- The business license fee is $300 and each employee ID card is $10. (source)
- The certified operator exam costs $300 per category. (source)
- To qualify by experience you need 3 years as a service employee of a licensee. (source)
- None of the limited certifications allows operating a commercial pest control business. (source)
8. Holiday and landscape lighting installation
- Home and yard
- Florida median $46,060
Hang seasonal lights and set up plug-in landscape lighting for homes and businesses.
State license: Installing plug-in low-voltage landscape lighting that needs no change to a building's wiring is exempt from electrical contractor licensing. Any wiring work needs a licensed electrical contractor (DBPR).
Limits and rules: You can't install, repair, or alter electrical wiring, fixtures, or circuits without an electrical contractor license. Stick to plug-in lights and existing outlets.
Steps for this business: Use plug-in products and existing outlets. Hire a licensed electrician for new outlets, timers wired into the house, or circuits.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, maintenance and repair workers, general: median $46,060 a year ($22.15 an hour). The top 10% earn $67,680 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Florida exempts installing plug-in low-voltage landscape lighting that doesn't modify the building's wiring. (source)
- Electrical contractors are the ones who install, repair, or alter electrical wiring and fixtures. (source)
- Small handyman jobs under $2,500 are exempt only if casual or minor and not needing a permit. (source)
9. Home organizing
Declutter and organize closets, garages, pantries, and offices, and set up storage products.
Limits and rules: Installing cabinets is not state-licensed, per DBPR. Bigger installs that become construction must stay under the $2,500 casual, minor job limit or need a licensed contractor.
Steps for this business: Keep build-out work small, or partner with a licensed contractor for larger installs.
State license: No official Florida page found that says either way. Check with DBPR before you start.
Official page
What the official pages say
- DBPR lists cabinets among work that does not need a state license. (source)
- Small jobs under $2,500 that are casual or minor are exempt from state contractor licensing. (source)
- Splitting a larger job into smaller contracts to stay under $2,500 is not allowed. (source)
10. Pressure washing
- Cleaning
- Florida median $34,490
Clean driveways, sidewalks, decks, roofs, siding, and dumpster pads with a pressure washer.
Limits and rules: Local stormwater laws ban letting wash water flow into storm drains. One Pinellas County city says fines can reach $5,000 per day. Washing for businesses (nonresidential cleaning) is subject to Florida sales tax.
Steps for this business: Learn your city or county stormwater rules and use dry cleanup or capture wash water. Register with the Florida Department of Revenue if you clean commercial buildings.
State license: No official Florida page found that says either way. Check with DBPR before you start.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, janitors and cleaners, except maids and housekeeping cleaners: median $34,490 a year ($16.58 an hour). The top 10% earn $42,930 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Power washing includes cleaning vehicles, sidewalks, buildings, dumpsters, and other hard surfaces. (source)
- Sending power washing wash water into storm drains is illegal (City of Indian Rocks Beach). (source)
- That city's stormwater ordinance allows fines up to $5,000 per day. (source)
- Nonresidential cleaning is taxed at 6 percent under Florida law. (source)
11. House cleaning / maid service
- Cleaning
- Florida median $33,860
Clean homes and apartments on a one-time or regular schedule.
Limits and rules: If you also clean offices or other commercial spaces, that nonresidential cleaning is subject to Florida sales tax and you must register with the Department of Revenue.
Steps for this business: If you take commercial cleaning jobs, register with the Florida Department of Revenue to collect sales tax.
State license: No official Florida page found that says either way. Check with DBPR before you start.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, maids and housekeeping cleaners: median $33,860 a year ($16.28 an hour). The top 10% earn $44,870 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Florida law taxes nonresidential cleaning at 6 percent. (source)
- The Department of Revenue lists interior nonresidential cleaning as a taxable service that requires registration. (source)
- Florida's general state sales tax rate is 6%. (source)
12. Window cleaning
- Cleaning
- Florida median $34,490
Clean windows, screens, and tracks for homes and storefronts.
Limits and rules: Window cleaning for businesses counts as nonresidential cleaning, which is subject to Florida sales tax.
Steps for this business: Register with the Florida Department of Revenue if you clean for businesses.
State license: No official Florida page found that says either way. Check with DBPR before you start.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, janitors and cleaners, except maids and housekeeping cleaners: median $34,490 a year ($16.58 an hour). The top 10% earn $42,930 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Florida law taxes nonresidential cleaning at 6 percent. (source)
- The Department of Revenue lists interior nonresidential cleaning as a taxable service that requires registration. (source)
- DBPR lists window treatments as work that does not need a state contractor license. (source)
13. Carpet and upholstery cleaning
- Cleaning
- Florida median $34,490
Deep-clean carpets, rugs, and furniture with portable or truck-mounted machines.
Limits and rules: Cleaning for businesses is taxable nonresidential cleaning. Dirty water must not go into storm drains under local stormwater rules.
Steps for this business: Register with the Florida Department of Revenue if you clean commercial spaces. Dispose of wash water the way your city or county requires.
State license: No official Florida page found that says either way. Check with DBPR before you start.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, janitors and cleaners, except maids and housekeeping cleaners: median $34,490 a year ($16.58 an hour). The top 10% earn $42,930 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Florida law taxes nonresidential cleaning at 6 percent. (source)
- The Department of Revenue lists interior nonresidential cleaning as a taxable service that requires registration. (source)
- DBPR says installing carpet does not need a state license. (source)
14. Junk removal and hauling
- Cars and moving
- Florida median $47,820
Haul away unwanted furniture, yard debris, and clutter from homes and businesses.
State license: Many counties require a solid waste hauler permit. Example: Miami-Dade requires a General Hauler Permit for anyone transporting solid waste or recyclables over public streets.
Fees: Miami-Dade County: permit application and renewal $630; $74 per vehicle; background check $24 per officer. Nassau County: $500 permit fee (unincorporated areas, 5-year permit).
Limits and rules: Miami-Dade haulers need $300,000 general liability per occurrence and $1 million vehicle liability, and company information on the vehicle. Haulers in Miami-Dade's Disposal Facility Fee Area pay 15 percent of gross monthly revenue from those accounts.
Steps for this business: Ask your county solid waste department about hauler permits before you start. Have your local business tax receipt, vehicle registration, and insurance certificate ready.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, refuse and recyclable material collectors: median $47,820 a year ($22.99 an hour). The top 10% earn $61,450 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Miami-Dade requires a permit for anyone transporting solid waste or recyclables over public streets. (source)
- Miami-Dade fees: $630 application or renewal and $74 per vehicle. (source)
- Miami-Dade requires at least $1 million combined vehicle liability insurance. (source)
- Miami-Dade's Disposal Facility Fee is 15 percent of gross monthly revenue in the fee area. (source)
- Nassau County requires a $500 permit fee for haulers in unincorporated areas. (source)
- Nassau County hauler permits last five years. (source)
15. Moving help and small moves
- Cars and moving
- Florida median $38,160
Load, move, and unload household goods for local moves within Florida.
State license: Anyone paid to load, transport, or unload household goods for an in-state move must register with FDACS as an intrastate mover.
Fees: FDACS: $300 per year, paid as $600 for the two-year registration.
Limits and rules: You need a certificate of insurance: at least $10,000 per shipment for goods (or a $50,000 bond or CD if under two trucks) and $50,000 per occurrence vehicle coverage for trucks under 35,000 pounds. Ads must show your Florida mover registration number.
Steps for this business: Register at the FDACS consumer compliance portal, file insurance with FDACS as certificate holder, and put your registration number on contracts, ads, and truck doors.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, laborers and freight, stock, and material movers, hand: median $38,160 a year ($18.35 an hour). The top 10% earn $48,870 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Florida law defines a mover to include anyone paid to load or unload household goods as part of a move. (source)
- FDACS registration is required for intrastate movers. (source)
- The fee is $300 per year, with $600 due for the two-year registration. (source)
- Goods liability coverage must be at least $10,000 per shipment. (source)
- Vehicle coverage must be at least $50,000 per occurrence for trucks under 35,000 pounds. (source)
- Breaking the law can bring fines up to $5,000. (source)
16. Mobile car detailing
- Cars and moving
- Florida median $33,380
Wash, wax, and clean car interiors at the customer's home or office.
Limits and rules: Do not let wash water run into storm drains; local stormwater laws ban it. If you also do paint or body work, that counts as motor vehicle repair, which needs FDACS registration.
Steps for this business: Use a water capture mat or waterless products where your city requires. Check your city or county stormwater rules.
State license: No official Florida page found that says either way. Check with DBPR before you start.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, cleaners of vehicles and equipment: median $33,380 a year ($16.05 an hour). The top 10% earn $45,130 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Pressure-washing vehicles counts as power washing under local stormwater guidance. (source)
- Sending wash water into storm drains is illegal (City of Indian Rocks Beach). (source)
- Florida's taxable nonresidential cleaning category excludes cleaning the interiors of transportation equipment. (source)
- Motor vehicle repair includes body work and painting. (source)
17. Mobile mechanic
- Cars and moving
- Florida median $48,260
Do oil changes, brakes, batteries, and other repairs at the customer's location.
State license: FDACS motor vehicle repair shop registration. The law names mobile repair shops and self-employed individuals. An individual with no employees and no established place of business needs no registration application or fee.
Fees: FDACS: $50 per year for 1 to 5 employees who do repairs; $150 for 6 to 10; $300 for 11 or more. Initial fee waived for honorably discharged veterans and some military families.
Limits and rules: Give written estimates; you can't go over the estimate by more than $10 or 10 percent (up to $50) without the customer's okay. Keep records one year. Invoices must list your FDACS registration number.
Steps for this business: Register with FDACS before doing business if required. Show your FDACS certificate when getting your local business tax receipt. Register with the Department of Revenue, since repairing property is a registrable activity.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, automotive service technicians and mechanics: median $48,260 a year ($23.20 an hour). The top 10% earn $79,180 or more.
Heads-up: The statute exempts an individual with no employees and no established place of business, but also treats a mobile shop owner's home address as the established place of business, so a solo mobile mechanic may still need to register. Confirm with FDACS.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Mobile repair shops and self-employed individuals are motor vehicle repair shops under Florida law. (source)
- FDACS says anyone paid to repair other people's vehicles must register. (source)
- No application or fee is needed for an individual with no employees and no established place of business. (source)
- For a mobile shop, the owner's home address counts as the established place of business. (source)
- The fee is $50 a year for a place of business with 1 to 5 repair employees. (source)
- You can't exceed the written estimate by more than $10 or 10 percent, up to $50, without consent. (source)
- The Department of Revenue lists repairing tangible personal property as an activity that requires registration. (source)
18. Dog grooming (including mobile)
- Pets
- Florida median $34,150
Bathe, brush, clip, and trim nails for dogs and cats in a shop or a grooming van.
Fees: Palm Beach County: fee varies by business.
Limits and rules: Some counties require an animal care permit. Palm Beach County requires a commercial permit for grooming parlors and a separate permit for mobile grooming; permits last 1 year and can't be transferred to a new owner.
Steps for this business: Ask your county animal services office about a grooming permit and inspection before opening.
State license: No official Florida page found that says either way. Check with DBPR before you start.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, animal caretakers: median $34,150 a year ($16.42 an hour). The top 10% earn $50,140 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Palm Beach County requires commercial permits for grooming parlors and mobile grooming parlors. (source)
- Mobile grooming needs its own permit there. (source)
- Permits last 1 year. (source)
- Permit fees vary by business type. (source)
- Inspectors generally visit before a permit is issued. (source)
19. Pet sitting and dog walking
- Pets
- Florida median $34,150
Visit pets at the owner's home for feeding and play, and walk dogs on a schedule.
Limits and rules: Boarding pets for hire at your own place can count as a kennel under county rules. Palm Beach County requires a commercial permit for kennels, which includes places where dogs or cats are kept for boarding for hire.
Steps for this business: If you plan to board pets overnight at your home, ask your county animal services office and zoning office first.
State license: No official Florida page found that says either way. Check with DBPR before you start.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, animal caretakers: median $34,150 a year ($16.42 an hour). The top 10% earn $50,140 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Palm Beach County defines a kennel to include a business where dogs or cats are kept for boarding for hire. (source)
- Kennels are on Palm Beach County's list of businesses needing a commercial permit. (source)
- New owners can't use a previous owner's permit. (source)
20. Cottage food from home
- Food
- Florida median $37,020
Bake or make low-risk foods like breads, cookies, candies, jams, granola or popcorn in your home kitchen and sell them directly to customers.
State license: No food permit from FDACS is needed for a cottage food operation that follows the rules and stays under the sales limit.
Limits and rules: Only approved low-risk foods. Gross sales cannot go over $250,000 a year. No wholesale. Every item must be sealed and labeled with the required statement. Free samples must also be wrapped ahead of time.
Steps for this business: Make only foods on the FDACS approved list. Label each item with your business name and address, product name, ingredients, net weight, allergens and the required cottage food statement. Register with the Florida Department of Revenue if your products are taxable.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, cooks, restaurant: median $37,020 a year ($17.80 an hour). The top 10% earn $46,450 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Cottage food operators can sell without getting a food permit from FDACS. (source)
- Gross sales from a cottage food operation cannot go over $250,000 a year. (source)
- You may sell on your website, by mail order and in person, but not wholesale. (source)
- Each label must say the food was made in a cottage food operation not covered by Florida's food safety rules. (source)
- Cities and counties cannot ban a cottage food operation. (source)
- You must still follow all tax laws that apply. (source)
21. Food truck (mobile food dispensing vehicle)
- Food
- Florida median $29,900
Cook and serve food from a truck or trailer that has its own sinks, refrigeration, power and plumbing.
State license: A mobile food dispensing vehicle (MFDV) license from the DBPR Division of Hotels and Restaurants.
Fees: DBPR Hotels and Restaurants: MFDV license $347 full year or $178.50 half year, plus a $50 application fee for a new license. Plan review is free.
Limits and rules: The vehicle must have a VIN, be able to move, have a three-compartment sink, a separate hand sink, and either a commercial water and sewer location or a commissary. Cities and counties cannot require their own separate MFDV license or fee.
Steps for this business: Get or build a vehicle that meets the DBPR requirements, line up a commissary or a commercial water and sewer location, then apply with DBPR, including a side photo showing the wheels and open service window.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, cooks, fast food: median $29,900 a year ($14.37 an hour). The top 10% earn $41,400 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- DBPR licenses three kinds of mobile food vehicles, including mobile food dispensing vehicles. (source)
- The vehicle needs a three-compartment sink for dishes and a separate hand sink. (source)
- You need either a commercial water and sewer location or a commissary. (source)
- The license fee is $347 for a full year or $178.50 for a half year. (source)
- A $50 application fee is added for a new license. (source)
- Local governments cannot add their own license or permit for food trucks. (source)
22. Hot dog cart
- Food
- Florida median $29,900
Sell hot dogs and precooked sausages from a cart, often with chips and canned or bottled drinks.
State license: A hot dog cart license from the DBPR Division of Hotels and Restaurants.
Fees: DBPR Hotels and Restaurants: $347 full year or $178.50 half year, plus a $50 application fee for a new license.
Limits and rules: Food preparation is limited to hot dogs and precooked sausages. The cart needs a hand sink, a way to keep food at safe temperatures, and a commissary.
Steps for this business: Get a cart with a VIN, hand sink and temperature equipment, arrange a commissary, and apply with DBPR with a side photo of the cart showing its wheels.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, cooks, fast food: median $29,900 a year ($14.37 an hour). The top 10% earn $41,400 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- A hot dog cart license limits cooking to hot dogs and precooked sausages. (source)
- A hot dog cart needs a commissary. (source)
- The license fee is $347 for a full year or $178.50 for a half year. (source)
- A $50 application fee is added for a new license. (source)
23. Food vendor at farmers markets and events
- Food
- Florida median $29,900
Sell prepared food at farmers markets, festivals and other short events.
State license: Prepared food sold at short events is licensed by the DBPR Division of Hotels and Restaurants as a temporary food vendor. Home-made cottage foods sold directly to customers do not need a food permit from FDACS.
Fees: DBPR Hotels and Restaurants temporary food vendor fees: annual vendor $456, 1-3 day events $91, 4-30 day events $105.
Limits and rules: A temporary food service event lasts 30 days or less. Cottage food sellers must stay under $250,000 in yearly gross sales and cannot sell wholesale.
Steps for this business: Decide whether you sell cottage foods (FDACS rules) or prepared food (DBPR temporary food vendor license). Ask the market manager what they require, and register with the Florida Department of Revenue for sales tax.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, cooks, fast food: median $29,900 a year ($14.37 an hour). The top 10% earn $41,400 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- DBPR temporary food vendor fees are $456 for an annual vendor, $91 for 1-3 day events and $105 for 4-30 day events. (source)
- A temporary food service event is any event of 30 days or less where food is sold to the public. (source)
- Cottage food operators can sell without getting a food permit from FDACS. (source)
- Selling taxable items at retail means registering with the Florida Department of Revenue to collect sales tax. (source)
24. Catering
- Food
- Florida median $37,020
Prepare food under contract and serve it at another location, such as a wedding or office event.
State license: A catering license from the DBPR Division of Hotels and Restaurants. A business that already holds a DBPR food service license, including a food truck, can cater without a separate catering license.
Fees: DBPR Hotels and Restaurants: caterer license $263 full year or $136.50 half year, plus a $50 application fee for a new license.
Limits and rules: You cannot run a catering business out of your home kitchen.
Steps for this business: Find a commercial kitchen (your own or a shared licensed kitchen), then apply for the catering license online through DBPR.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, cooks, restaurant: median $37,020 a year ($17.80 an hour). The top 10% earn $46,450 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Florida law does not allow catering out of a private home. (source)
- A DBPR-licensed food business, including a food truck, can cater without a separate catering license. (source)
- The caterer license fee is $263 for a full year or $136.50 for a half year. (source)
- A $50 application fee is added for a new license. (source)
- New caterers apply online through DBPR Online Services. (source)
25. Personal chef
Cook meals in a client's own home with the client's equipment, for one household.
State license: DBPR says personal chefs do not fall under the Division of Hotels and Restaurants' regulation.
Limits and rules: A personal chef does not prepare or store food before or after the job and does not bring anything or take anything away. Preparing food ahead elsewhere would be catering, which needs a license and cannot be done from home.
Steps for this business: Work only in the client's kitchen with the client's equipment.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Personal chefs are not regulated by the DBPR Division of Hotels and Restaurants. (source)
- Personal chefs do not prepare or store food before or after the event. (source)
- Personal chefs bring nothing with them and take nothing away. (source)
- Catering from a home is not allowed. (source)
26. Online store or reseller
Buy goods to resell, or sell your own products, through your own website or by mail.
Limits and rules: An Annual Resale Certificate lets you buy items tax-free only if you will resell them. You cannot use it for things your business uses or for personal items.
Steps for this business: Register online with the Florida Department of Revenue (or on paper with Form DR-1), collect and file sales tax, and use your Annual Resale Certificate when buying inventory.
State license: No official Florida page found that says either way. Check with DBPR before you start.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Selling taxable items at retail means registering with the Florida Department of Revenue to collect sales tax. (source)
- You can register online or with the paper Florida Business Tax Application. (source)
- The DR-1 application has a choice for selling by mail using catalogs or the internet. (source)
- The resale certificate cannot be used for tax-free purchases of items your business uses but does not resell. (source)
- Annual Resale Certificates expire on December 31, and registered dealers get a new one each year. (source)
27. Flea market and craft show vendor
Sell crafts, handmade goods or secondhand items from a booth at flea markets, craft shows and similar events.
Limits and rules: You must carry your sales tax Certificate of Registration with you at the temporary location. Food sold at events has separate rules (see food vendor).
Steps for this business: When registering with the Florida Department of Revenue, check the choice for selling from nonpermanent locations such as flea markets or craft shows. Bring your certificate to every event.
State license: No official Florida page found that says either way. Check with DBPR before you start.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Selling taxable items at retail means registering with the Florida Department of Revenue to collect sales tax. (source)
- The DR-1 tax application lists selling from nonpermanent locations like flea markets or craft shows. (source)
- Flea market vendors must have their certificate with them at the temporary location. (source)
28. Bookkeeping
- Online and office
- Florida median $49,330
Keep business records, track income and expenses, and prepare financial statements for small businesses, often remotely.
State license: Florida law reserves public accounting for licensed CPAs and public accountants, but says people who are not CPAs may do other accounting work, including preparing financial statements without giving an opinion on them.
Limits and rules: Without a CPA license you cannot practice public accounting or call yourself a certified public accountant, CPA, or public accountant.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks: median $49,330 a year ($23.72 an hour). The top 10% earn $72,260 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Only a CPA or public accountant may practice public accounting in Florida. (source)
- People who are not CPAs may do other work that uses accounting skills. (source)
- Florida law allows people who are not CPAs to prepare tax returns and financial statements without an opinion. (source)
- You cannot use the CPA title without an active Florida license. (source)
29. Tax preparation
- Online and office
- Florida median $49,020
Prepare federal income tax returns for individuals and small businesses for a fee.
State license: Florida's accountancy law says people who are not CPAs may prepare tax returns. The IRS requires a PTIN for anyone paid to prepare federal returns.
Fees: IRS: PTIN fee $18.75 (non-refundable), renewed each year.
Limits and rules: You cannot call yourself a CPA or practice public accounting without a Florida CPA license.
Steps for this business: Apply for a PTIN online with the IRS (most first-time applicants finish in about 15 minutes) and renew it every year before preparing returns.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, tax preparers: median $49,020 a year ($23.57 an hour). The top 10% earn $94,330 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Florida law allows people who are not CPAs to prepare tax returns and financial statements without an opinion. (source)
- Anyone paid to prepare federal tax returns must have a valid PTIN. (source)
- The PTIN fee is $18.75 and is non-refundable. (source)
- Most first-time applicants get a PTIN online in about 15 minutes. (source)
30. Drone photography and video
- Teaching and events
- Florida median $42,640
Fly a small drone to take photos and video for real estate listings, events, roofs and businesses.
State license: Flying a drone under the FAA Small UAS Rule (Part 107) requires an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate.
Training: Pass the FAA initial aeronautical knowledge test at an FAA-approved testing center. Certificate holders must complete a free FAA online recurrent course within the previous 24 calendar months to keep flying under Part 107.
Limits and rules: You must be at least 16 years old.
Steps for this business: Create an IACRA profile to get an FAA Tracking Number, schedule and pass the knowledge test at an approved testing center, then apply in IACRA with your 17-digit Knowledge Test Exam ID.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, photographers: median $42,640 a year ($20.50 an hour). The top 10% earn $80,400 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- You need an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate to fly under Part 107. (source)
- You must be at least 16 years old. (source)
- Step one is getting an FAA Tracking Number by creating an IACRA profile. (source)
- You take the test at an FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Center. (source)
- Certificate holders must complete online training within the previous 24 calendar months. (source)
- The recurrent online training course is free. (source)
31. Bounce house and party rentals
Rent inflatable bounce houses, tables, chairs and other party equipment for birthday parties and events.
State license: Florida's amusement ride safety law (s. 616.242, F.S.) lists inflatable rides among the things it does not apply to.
Steps for this business: Register with the Florida Department of Revenue to collect sales tax on rentals.
Official page
What the official pages say
- The amusement ride safety law has a list of exemptions. (source)
- Inflatable rides and trampolines are on that list. (source)
- Renting personal property requires sales tax registration with the Florida Department of Revenue. (source)
32. Notary public and mobile notary
Witness signatures, give oaths and notarize documents, often by traveling to clients.
State license: A notary appointment from the State of Florida, applied for with the Department of State (Division of Corporations) through an approved bonding agency.
Training: First-time applicants must finish at least 3 hours of notary education within one year before applying. The Department of State and Governor's Office offer the course online at no cost.
Fees: Department of State: $39 check or money order with the application. A $7,500 notary bond from a surety company is also required. Check the current fee with the Department of State before applying.
Limits and rules: You must be at least 18 and a legal resident of Florida, and stay a resident for the four-year term.
Steps for this business: Take the free 3-hour online course, complete the application (DS-DE 77) and bond (DS-DE 76) through an approved bonding agency, and send the $39 fee.
Official page
What the official pages say
- You must be at least 18 and a legal resident of Florida. (source)
- Residency must be kept for the full four-year term. (source)
- The application fee is $39, sent through an approved agency. (source)
- First-time applicants need at least 3 hours of instruction within one year before applying. (source)
- The required course is free online from the Department of State. (source)
- A notary must carry a $7,500 bond. (source)
33. Real estate sales associate
- Licensed but learnable
- Florida median $49,310
Help people buy, sell and rent homes and property while working under a licensed Florida real estate broker.
State license: A real estate sales associate license from DBPR, under FREC.
Training: A 63-hour FREC-approved pre-licensing course, which may be taken in a classroom or by distance education. After licensing, a 45-hour post-licensing course is required before the first license expires.
Limits and rules: The license is issued inactive until it is activated, for example by your broker.
Steps for this business: Finish the 63-hour course, apply to DBPR with electronic fingerprints and the fee, pass the state exam with at least 75, then have your broker activate your license.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, real estate sales agents: median $49,310 a year ($23.71 an hour). The top 10% earn $153,200 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- You must complete a 63-hour FREC-approved pre-licensing course. (source)
- The course can be taken in a classroom or by distance education. (source)
- You apply with electronic fingerprints and the fee. (source)
- You must pass the state exam with at least 75. (source)
- The license starts inactive until it is activated. (source)
- A 45-hour post-licensing course is due before the first license expires. (source)
34. Health and life insurance agent (2-15 or 2-40)
- Licensed but learnable
- Florida median $59,790
Sell life, annuity and health insurance (2-15) or health insurance only (2-40) for insurance companies.
State license: A resident agent license from the Florida Department of Financial Services (2-15 Health and Life, or 2-40 Health).
Training: 2-15: a 60-hour approved life and health course (or a 30-hour life course plus a 40-hour health course, or certain designations). 2-40: a 40-hour approved health course. Courses must be finished within four years of applying.
Limits and rules: You must be at least 18, a Florida resident, and not hold a resident license in another state. A state exam is required.
Steps for this business: Complete the approved course, apply online and pay the fees, send proof of the course, get fingerprinted, and pass the state exam.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, insurance sales agents: median $59,790 a year ($28.75 an hour). The top 10% earn $124,830 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- 2-15 applicants complete a 60-hour approved life and health course within four years of applying. (source)
- You must be at least 18. (source)
- You must not hold a resident license in another state. (source)
- 2-40 health agents need a 40-hour approved health course. (source)
- Applicants apply online and pay the fees. (source)
- You must be fingerprinted. (source)
35. Security officer (Class D)
- Licensed but learnable
- Florida median $35,900
Work as an unarmed security officer at buildings, events and businesses.
State license: A Class D Security Officer license from FDACS (Division of Licensing).
Training: At least 40 hours of professional training from a security officer school or training facility licensed by FDACS.
Limits and rules: Anyone who performs security officer services must hold a Class D license. You must be at least 18.
Steps for this business: Finish the 40-hour course, then apply online, in person at a regional office, or by mail to FDACS.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, security guards: median $35,900 a year ($17.26 an hour). The top 10% earn $46,090 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Anyone working as a security officer must have a Class D license. (source)
- You must be at least 18. (source)
- You need at least 40 hours of training from an FDACS-licensed school. (source)
- You can apply online, in person or by mail. (source)
36. Family child care home
- Licensed but learnable
- Florida median $34,210
Care for children from more than one unrelated family in your own home.
State license: Registration or a license with the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). Some counties require licensing instead of registration.
Training: A 30-hour family day care home training course plus a 5-hour early literacy course; all 35 hours must be finished before registration.
Fees: DCF registration renewal: $25 application fee.
Limits and rules: You cannot provide care until you receive a registration letter from DCF. Registration is not allowed in Brevard, Broward, Clay, Duval, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Miami-Dade, Nassau, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota and St. Johns counties, which require licensing.
Steps for this business: Complete the 35 hours of training, submit DCF's Intent to Apply form, complete screening and background checks, and wait for the DCF registration letter before starting.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, childcare workers: median $34,210 a year ($16.45 an hour). The top 10% earn $44,730 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- Caring for children from more than one unrelated family at home requires DCF registration or a license. (source)
- You must get a DCF registration letter before providing care. (source)
- Some counties do not allow registration because they require licensing. (source)
- All 35 hours of training must be done before registration. (source)
- Renewals are mailed with a $25 application fee. (source)
37. Home inspector
- Licensed but learnable
- Florida median $68,170
Inspect a home's structure, roof, electrical, plumbing, HVAC and other systems and write a report for buyers or owners.
State license: A home inspector license from DBPR.
Training: A course of study of at least 120 hours covering the main parts of a home, plus passing an approved exam given by a nationally recognized organization.
Steps for this business: Complete a DBPR-approved 120-hour course, pass an approved home inspector exam, then apply to DBPR with electronic fingerprints.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, construction and building inspectors: median $68,170 a year ($32.77 an hour). The top 10% earn $100,280 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- You need a course of at least 120 hours covering the main parts of a home. (source)
- You must pass one of the approved written exams. (source)
- The exams are given by national organizations, not by DBPR. (source)
- Applicants submit electronic fingerprints. (source)
- Renewal requires 14 hours of continuing education, including 2 hours on wind mitigation. (source)
- The renewal fee listed is $105.00. (source)
39. Nail technician (nail specialist)
- Licensed but learnable
- Florida median $37,840
Do manicures, pedicures and nail enhancements.
State license: A nail specialist registration from DBPR (Board of Cosmetology).
Training: At least 180 hours in a nail specialty program at a Florida school of cosmetology, plus a board-approved HIV/AIDS course.
Fees: DBPR: $75.00 application fee for a nail, facial or full specialist registration based on Florida education.
Limits and rules: A licensed cosmetologist does not need a separate nail specialist registration.
Steps for this business: Enroll in a Florida school's nail program, finish 180 hours and the HIV/AIDS course, then send the application, certificate of completion and $75.00 fee to DBPR.
What it pays: Florida pay for the closest job, manicurists and pedicurists: median $37,840 a year ($18.19 an hour). The top 10% earn $59,940 or more.
Official page
What the official pages say
- You must complete at least 180 hours in a nail program at a Florida cosmetology school. (source)
- The application fee for a specialist registration based on Florida education is $75.00. (source)
- You must submit a certificate from a board-approved HIV/AIDS course. (source)
- Licensed cosmetologists do not need a separate nail registration. (source)