The plaster and lath specialty covers stucco and plaster work: cement or gypsum plaster coatings and the lath that holds them. It is one of the categories created in rule 61G4-15.100, effective May 5, 2024.
What the license covers
Rule 61G4-15.100(1)(l) allows the contractor to "coat surfaces with a mixture of sand or other aggregate gypsum plaster, Portland cement or quicklime and water, or any combination of such material as to create a permanent coating." The contractor "may perform lathing work."
| Work | License |
|---|---|
| Portland cement plaster (stucco), gypsum plaster, lime plaster | Plaster and lath |
| Metal or wire lath, furring for plaster | Plaster and lath |
| Gypsum board, non-load-bearing metal studs, ceiling grid | Gypsum drywall (which excludes plastering) |
Certification
Rule 61G4-15.100 provides for state certification with the same procedures and fees as other CILB certifications.
Eligibility
F.S. 489.111(2): 18 years old, good moral character, and an experience route (4 years as a skilled worker or foreman with 1 year as foreman, a relevant degree plus 1 year, or a listed combination with college credit).
The exams
| Exam | Scored questions | Time | Passing score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business and Finance | 120 | 6.5 hours | 70% |
| Plaster and Lath trade knowledge | 50 | 2.5 hours | 70% |
Content outline (May 2026)
| Area | Topic | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to plaster and lath | 9.5% |
| 2 | Materials science | 18% |
| 3 | Tools and equipment | 9.5% |
| 4 | Lathing techniques | 18% |
| 5 | Plaster mixing and application techniques | 18% |
| 6 | Building codes and standards | 9% |
| 7 | Safety practices | 9% |
| 8 | Project management and estimation | 9% |
Reference list overview
- ASTM C926 (application of Portland cement-based plaster) and ASTM C1063 (lathing and furring for Portland cement-based plaster)
- ACI 524, Guide to Portland Cement-Based Plaster
- Plastering Skills
- Gypsum Construction Handbook (USG)
- Florida Building Code: Building and Residential (2023)
- Walker's estimator; Contractors Manual; OSHA 29 CFR 1926
Exam volume
Pearson VUE exam performance reports show 6 graded plaster and lath attempts in 2025 and 7 in 2026 through October 6.
Steps
- Document plastering and lathing experience under 489.111.
- Register with Professional Testing, Inc.; schedule both exams at Pearson VUE.
- Pass both at 70%.
- Apply to the CILB.
FAQ
Is stucco covered? Yes. Portland cement plaster is named in the rule, and the reference list centers on Portland cement-based plaster standards.
Can a drywall contractor do plaster? The gypsum drywall scope in the same rule says it "shall not include plastering."
How long is the exam? 50 questions in 2.5 hours, plus the 120-question Business and Finance exam.
Next step
Plaster and lath candidates also take the Business and Finance exam. Prepare with our Florida Business and Finance Exam Prep.