Application Fee
See agencyVerified by FL Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Florida
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Florida, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Florida
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
FL Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation • Division of Professions
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$29,760 median (16% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#39 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Florida
With a median salary of 29,760, Cosmetologists in Florida earn 16% below the national median of $35,250. Florida ranks #39 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$29,760Hourly estimate
$14.3116% below national median
Difference: -$5,490
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#39 of 50 statesfor Cosmetologist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 58,920 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 52,000 |
| #3 | Vermont | 49,640 |
| #4 | South Dakota | 49,050 |
| #5 | Maine | 48,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
Cosmetologist licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 19 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Alabama | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
FL Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation • Division of Professions
1940 N. Monroe Street, Tallahassee, FL, 32399-0760
Phone: 8504871395
Related Careers in Florida
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $46,900 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $38,060 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $49,880 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $32,370 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Florida?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Cosmetologists in Florida?
Florida lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Florida?
The board typically expects Degree required for Cosmetologist licensure in Florida.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Florida?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Florida is 29,760. Salaries range from $24,960 (10th percentile) to $60,780 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Florida compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Florida earn 16% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 29,760.
How many Cosmetologists work in Florida?
Florida employs approximately 23,220 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Florida from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Cosmetologists in Florida?
The licensing agency is FL Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation / Division of Professions. Review agency details at https://www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/.