How to Become a Licensed Cosmetologist in Florida

If you want to become a licensed cosmetologist in Florida, you must meet the state’s education and licensing requirements. The process generally includes completing an approved cosmetology education program, completing the required HIV/AIDS training, applying for licensure through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), and passing the required cosmetology examination.

If you’re considering cosmetology school in Florida, understanding the licensing process can help you plan your education and prepare for the steps that follow graduation. This guide explains the general requirements and how Daytona College’s Cosmetology Diploma program fits into the process.

Florida Cosmetology Licensing Requirements

Florida establishes specific education and licensing requirements for individuals seeking a cosmetology license. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) oversees cosmetology licensing.

Licensing Step	Requirement	Details
1. Age & Education	Meet Florida’s eligibility requirements	Applicants must meet the state’s age and educational eligibility requirements.
2. Cosmetology Education	Complete the required training	Florida generally requires 1,200 school hours of cosmetology education.
3. HIV/AIDS Training	Complete an approved course	Applicants must complete the required HIV/AIDS training that meets Florida’s requirements.
4. License Application	Apply through DBPR	Submit the appropriate cosmetology licensure application and required fees.
5. State Examination	Pass the required examination	Florida-educated applicants must apply for licensure by examination and complete the required cosmetology examination.

1. Complete a Florida-Approved Cosmetology Program

The first step toward becoming a licensed cosmetologist in Florida is completing the required cosmetology education at an approved school. Florida generally requires aspiring cosmetologists to complete 1,200 school hours of education and training.

At Daytona College, students can choose from cosmetology-focused education options, including the Cosmetology Diploma program and the Barber Styling / Cosmetology Diploma program.

The Barber Styling / Cosmetology Diploma is a 50-week, on-campus program that combines cosmetology and barbering education. The curriculum includes areas such as haircutting and styling, beard and mustache trimming, hair coloring, manicuring and pedicuring, facials and makeup, and Florida laws and rules related to cosmetology and barbering. The program is designed to prepare graduates to take the Florida cosmetology and barbering licensure exams.

What Do You Learn in Cosmetology School?

Depending on the program curriculum, cosmetology education can include training in:

• Hair Styling and Chemical Services: Haircutting, hair coloring, highlighting, chemical waving, and relaxers.
• Esthetics and Skincare: Facials, skin analysis, makeup application, and hair removal techniques.
• Nail Technology: Manicures, pedicures, acrylics, gels, and nail art.
• Sanitation and Safety: Sterilization procedures, salon safety, and Florida cosmetology laws.

Daytona College combines classroom instruction with hands-on practice in the campus spa, where students apply techniques under instructor supervision.

2. Complete the Required HIV/AIDS Training

Florida cosmetology applicants must complete the state’s required HIV/AIDS training as part of the licensing process. The initial course must meet the requirements established by the Florida Board of Cosmetology and include at least four hours of instruction.

At Daytona College, the Cosmetology Diploma program incorporates the board-approved HIV/AIDS course within its 1,200-hour curriculum. Upon completing your hours and graduating, Daytona College provides your official transcript and completion documentation to submit alongside your Florida Board of Cosmetology (DBPR) license application.

3. Apply for a Florida Cosmetology License

After meeting the applicable education and training requirements, you can apply for cosmetology licensure through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

For Florida-educated applicants, the licensing pathway includes applying for licensure by examination. You will need to submit the required application and supporting documentation and pay the applicable licensing fees.

What Information May Be Needed for the Application?

Depending on your circumstances, the application process may require documentation such as:

• School Graduation Verification: Documentation showing completion of the required cosmetology education.
• HIV/AIDS Course Documentation: Proof of completing the required HIV/AIDS training.
• License Application: The appropriate DBPR cosmetology application.
• Required Fees: Payment of applicable state licensing and examination fees.
• Additional Documentation: Any other information or documentation requested by DBPR based on your application.

Because licensing requirements can change, review the current DBPR instructions before submitting your application.

Career Services at Daytona College

Preparing for a career in cosmetology involves more than completing your education and licensing requirements. Daytona College also provides Career Services to assist students and graduates as they prepare to enter the workforce.

Career Services representatives provide coaching, resources, and guidance related to job opportunities, networking, marketing, and interview strategies. Services also include graduate placement assistance and on-campus recruiting and interviewing opportunities.

Career Services are available to Daytona College students and graduates, but employment or a specific starting salary is not guaranteed.

4. Take and Pass the Florida Cosmetology Examination

If you completed your cosmetology education in Florida, you must apply for licensure by examination. Once your application is approved, you will receive information about scheduling the required cosmetology examination.

Florida’s cosmetology examination includes written components covering theory and clinical knowledge. Applicants must complete the required examination portions to receive their cosmetology license.

This makes examination preparation an important part of the licensing process. Review the current examination information from DBPR so you understand the testing requirements, scheduling process, and topics covered.

The Daytona College Cosmetology Experience

Preparing for cosmetology licensure involves both technical instruction and opportunities to practice cosmetology services. Daytona College’s Cosmetology Diploma program incorporates hands-on practice in the campus spa under instructor supervision.

Students can practice areas of cosmetology such as hair services, skincare, nail services, sanitation, and client interactions as part of their education.

Working with clients in a supervised campus salon environment can provide opportunities to apply classroom concepts and practice services in a setting designed for cosmetology education.

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Cosmetology Licensure

How many hours of cosmetology school are required in Florida?

Florida generally requires 1,200 school hours of cosmetology education. Confirm the current requirements with DBPR and your school.

Do I have to take a cosmetology exam in Florida?

Yes. Florida-educated applicants must apply for cosmetology licensure by examination. The required cosmetology examination includes written theory and clinical components, and applicants must complete the required examination portions to receive a license.

How long does it take to complete the 1,200-hour Cosmetology Diploma program at Daytona College?

The timeframe depends on the class schedule you choose. Daytona College designs its Cosmetology Diploma program to accommodate different student schedules, offering a day option that takes 40 weeks to complete, or an evening option (Monday through Thursday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM) that takes 60 weeks. This structure allows you to complete your required 1,200 clock hours at a pace that fits your lifestyle.

Do I need a high school diploma to become a cosmetologist in Florida?

Florida requires cosmetology applicants to be at least 16 years old or have received a high school diploma. Applicants should review the current DBPR licensing requirements before applying.

Ready to Start Your Cosmetology Education?

If becoming a licensed cosmetologist in Florida is your goal, the first step is finding a cosmetology program that meets the state’s education requirements. From completing your required training to preparing for the licensing process, understanding each step can help you plan your education.

Daytona College’s Cosmetology Diploma program provides instruction in hair styling, skincare, nail technology, sanitation, and safety, along with hands-on practice at The Spa at Daytona College.

Explore Daytona College’s Cosmetology Diploma program to learn more about the curriculum, admissions process, and financial aid options.