Florida Cosmetology License: Requirements, Cost & How to Apply (2026)

Florida Board of Cosmetology

Florida Board of Cosmetology

There is created within the department the Board of Cosmetology

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

Open the official agency page

https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2026/477.019

Cosmetologists; qualifications; licensure; supervised practice; license renewal; endorsement; continuing education.

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

At least 16 years of age or a high school diploma.

At least 16 years of age or a high school diploma.

Is at least 16 years of age or has received a high school diploma;

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

1,200 hours; school certification may permit examination after 1,000 hours. A candidate who fails then must complete the full training requirement before reexamination.

1,200 hours; school certification may permit examination after 1,000 hours. A candidate who fails then must complete the full training requirement before reexamination.

Has received a minimum of 1,200 hours of training the school or program may certify that a person is qualified to take the required examination after the completion of a minimum of 1,000 actual school hours. If the person then passes the examination, he or she has satisfied this requirement; but if the person fails the examination, he or she may not be qualified to take the examination again until the completion of the full requirements provided by this section.

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

Pass the licensing examination and pay the initial licensing fee.

Pass the licensing examination and pay the initial licensing fee.

Upon an applicant receiving a passing grade, as established by board rule, on the examination and paying the initial licensing fee, the department shall issue a license to practice cosmetology.

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

A current active cosmetology license in another state qualifies for licensure by endorsement.

A current active cosmetology license in another state qualifies for licensure by endorsement.

The board shall certify as qualified for licensure by endorsement as a cosmetologist in this state an applicant who holds a current active license to practice cosmetology in another state.

Last verified Oct 25, 2026

Statutory CE subjects include HIV/AIDS; OSHA regulations; workers’ compensation; cosmetology laws and rules; chemical makeup relating to hair, skin and nails; and environmental issues. The exact required hours remain unverified.

Statutory CE subjects include HIV/AIDS; OSHA regulations; workers’ compensation; cosmetology laws and rules; chemical makeup relating to hair, skin and nails; and environmental issues. The exact required hours remain unverified.

Continuing education courses shall include, but not be limited to, the following subjects as they relate to the practice of cosmetology: human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immune deficiency syndrome; Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations; workers’ compensation issues; state and federal laws and rules as they pertain to cosmetologists, cosmetology, salons, specialists, specialty salons, and booth renters; chemical makeup as it pertains to hair, skin, and nails; and environmental issues.

Last verified Oct 25, 2026