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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Florida
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
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 Florida eligibility requirements for Cosmetologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to FL Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation~Division of Professions and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
-0.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,330Median 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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Alabama | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $38,060 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $49,880 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $32,370 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Florida?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in Florida?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.