Learn how to apply for a recovery and repossession license in Florida.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) licenses and regulates the recovery and repossession industry in Florida in accordance with Chapter 493, Florida Statutes.
Exemptions
Those who are considered exempt from licensing include:
- Any bank or bank holding company, credit union, or small loan company operating pursuant to chapters 516 and 520, Florida Statutes.
- Any consumer credit reporting agency regulated under Title 15, Section 1681, United States Code.
- Any collection agency not engaged in repossessions, or any permanent employee of such an agency.
License Classifications
For Individuals:
Recovery Agent
Recovery Agent Intern
- Classification: Class "EE"
- Explanation: Any individual who performs repossession as an intern under the direction and control of a designated, sponsoring Class “E” licensee or a designated, sponsoring Class “MR” licensee must have a Class “EE” license.
- How to Apply: How to Apply for a Class "EE" License
Manager of a Recovery Agency
- Classification: Class "MR"
- Explanation: A Class “R” recovery agency or Class “RR” branch office must have a Class "MR" licensed manager.
- How to Apply: How to Apply for a Class "MR" License
Recovery Agent Instructor
- Classification: Class "RI"
- Explanation: Any person who provides instruction to applicants for Class “E" or Class "EE" licensure must have a Class “RI” license.
- How to Apply: How to Apply for a Class "RI" License
For Agencies:
Recovery Agency (Main Office)
- Classification: Class "R"
- Explanation: Any person, firm, company, partnership, or corporation that engages in business as a recovery agency must have a Class “R” license. A Class “R” license is valid for only one location.
- How to Apply: How to Apply for a Class "R" License
Recovery Agency Branch Office
For Schools:
Recovery Agent School or Training Facility
- Classification: Class "RS"
- Explanation: Any school that provides instruction to applicants for Class “E” or Class "EE" licensure must have a Class “RS” license.
- How to Apply: How to Apply for a Class "RS" License
Recovery and Repossession and Firearms
Licensed recovery agents and recovery agent interns are prohibited from carrying firearms while on private property and in the course of repossession activities. This is prohibited even if the licensee possesses a concealed weapon or firearm license or a Class "G" Statewide Firearm License by virtue of other licensure as a security officer or private investigator.
