Cosmetologist License in Florida
Quick Answer
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Florida, you must complete 1,200 hours of training (one of the lower requirements nationally), pass a third-party exam, and pay approximately $250 in fees. Military spouses receive fee reductions and temporary licenses. CE is required for renewal.
- Education Required
- 1200 hours
- Exam
- Florida Cosmetology Exam (Prometric/DBPR)
- Total Cost
- $250 (est.)
- Timeline
- 7-12 months
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Cosmetologist license in Florida
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $75
- Exam Fee
- $63
- Renewal Fee
- $55
- Total Estimated Cost
- $250
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Cosmetologist license in Florida. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Florida licensing board.
Cosmetologist Salary in Florida
Entry Level
$24,960
Median
$29,760
Experienced
$60,780
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Cosmetologist in Florida.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — Florida Cosmetology Exam (Prometric/DBPR)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$75.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 7-12 months.
Cosmetologist Licensing in Florida: What to Know
Florida defines cosmetology to include hair treatment, nail care, skin care, and makeup application. CE is required for renewal, and no criminal record prohibitions exist as blanket restrictions. Fees are reduced and temporary licenses are available for military spouses. The FL Department of Business and Professional Regulation oversees licensing. Florida requires only 1,200 hours, making it one of the states with lower education requirements. Florida's large tourism and entertainment industries, particularly in Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, create strong demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Cosmetologist license cost in Florida?
- The estimated total cost is $250, including application fees, exam fees ($63), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Cosmetologist license in Florida?
- The process typically takes 7-12 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Cosmetologist license in Florida?
- You need to pass the Florida Cosmetology Exam (Prometric/DBPR). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Cosmetologist requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.