Initial licensing path
Evidence reviewedComplete 1,200 hours at a Florida cosmetology school, submit the cosmetology examination application with the applicable fees, and pass both portions of the examination.
Florida · Cosmetology
Florida Cosmetology License Requirements
Provenance
Official sources
- https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/cosmetology/Retrieved 2026-09-03
- https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/cosmetology/faqs/Retrieved 2026-09-03
Official-source reference
Licensing requirements
Field-reviewed details link to their exact supporting source. Any older detail awaiting a separate field review is labeled and retains the guide source. Confirm the current rules for your license type before applying or renewing.
Education and training
Evidence reviewedAttend a Florida school of cosmetology and complete at least 1,200 hours of education.
Exams
Evidence reviewedAfter DBPR approves the examination application, Pearson VUE sends scheduling instructions. Pass both portions of the Florida cosmetology examination before a license is issued.
Application fee
Evidence reviewedSubmit the completed cosmetology examination application with the applicable fees. The reviewed Board FAQ does not state a dollar amount.
Background check
Evidence reviewedDBPR reviews criminal history case by case, and an application may require Board review; the Board says such applications cannot be pre-approved.
Endorsement or reciprocity
Evidence reviewedA holder of a current, active cosmetology license from another U.S. state does not have to take Florida's cosmetology examination or meet Florida's education requirement for endorsement. Apprenticeship licenses and apprenticeship education are not eligible for endorsement; foreign cosmetology license holders must apply by examination.
Complete your application with the licensing authority.
Open official licensing authority