Florida Cosmetologist

Cosmetology Articles and Guides

Can You Work While Waiting for Your Florida Cosmetology or Barber License? (And Other Job FAQs)

By Leave a Comment

Maybe you’ve submitted your Florida cosmetology or barber license application, or you’re just about to click “Submit.” Either way, you’re one step closer to starting your new career in Florida. But now comes the waiting game. Whether you mailed everything to the DBPR in Tallahassee or submitted online, it can take weeks before your license appears in the DBPR database. During that time, many applicants wonder: Can I start working?

We’re going to cover the most common questions we hear from applicants about working in Florida salons and barbershops while a license is pending — plus what you can do to prepare for your new career in the meantime.

1. The Waiting Game: What Happens After You Apply

Once your application and payment are submitted, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) reviews your information. Processing can take 2–6 weeks — sometimes longer during busy seasons.

Applications for cosmetologists, barbers, nail specialists, facial specialists, and full specialists all go through the same system. The DBPR must receive your correct course certificates, payment, and a complete application before it can issue your license.

2. “Can I Work While Waiting? Can I Just Style Hair, Work for Free, Work If I Passed My Barber Exam, or Only Shampoo Until I Get My License?”

These are some of the most common questions applicants ask — and it’s important to know what’s allowed (and what isn’t).

This is not an easy answer. And it depends on if you are a cosmetology licensee or a barber licensee. And did you just graduate school and pass an exam. Are you accepting compensation?

Want to see what the DBPR says directly? Read the official FAQ pages for your board:

When in doubt, communicate with your salon owner and confirm directly with the DBPR before performing any service — even simple ones. There may some tasks that you can perform while you wait. Salons or barber shops may require you to have a license for certain tasks and services, even when the DBPR does not. We are not lawyers, so feel free to contact a professional licensing lawyer if your situation needs one.

However, that doesn’t mean you can’t start preparing if you cannot work, or work for compensation, just yet. If you want to get experience in a salon while you wait, consider these other options:

  • Shadow or observe in a salon or barbershop (no hands-on work).
  • Apply for front desk or assistant roles to get your foot in the door.
  • Offer to assist with laundry, cleaning, or organizing products.
  • Network with salon owners and barbershop managers so you’re ready to start once your license is active.
  • Gather your supplies, tools, and CE certificates — being ready on day one shows professionalism.

4. Common Question: Do I Need a Social Security Number (SSN) to Apply?

The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) requires that all applicants possess a Social Security Number (SSN) to apply for a cosmetology, barber, or specialist license. This is used for identification and verification purposes.

If you are applying from another country and do not yet have an SSN, you must obtain one before submitting your Florida license application. The DBPR does not currently accept Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) in place of an SSN that we see on the application.

You can find this requirement directly on the application forms for both cosmetology and barber applicants.

Applicants from outside the U.S. will also need to include proof of education and training, along with translations if applicable. These applications may take a little longer to review, but you can absolutely become licensed in Florida once everything is verified.

For more help with out-of-country transfers, see this guide:

👉 Help! I Am an Out-Of-Country Cosmetologist Moving to Florida

5. How to Transfer a License from Another State

If you’re already licensed elsewhere in the U.S., you’ll need to apply for a Florida license by endorsement (transfer). This process is usually faster than starting from scratch, but you still need the right paperwork and course certificates.

Remember — even with a valid out-of-state license, you can’t legally work in Florida until your DBPR license number is active.

6. What If You’re Still Waiting After 6 Weeks?

If it’s been over six weeks and you still don’t see your name listed in the DBPR license search, it’s time to check in and see what is causing the delay in getting licensed. The DBPR’s motto is to “License Efficiently, Regulate Fairly.” Sometimes applications are delayed because of missing documents, incorrect names on certificates, or even lost mail.

Here’s a helpful guide for what to do if your application seems stuck:

👉 Florida Cosmetology License Application Delays

7. Quick Tips for Finding a Job Fast (Once Licensed)

  • Start applying early — many salons will interview before your license posts.
  • Keep a copy of your certificates to show your training is current.
  • Join Florida cosmetology and barber Facebook groups for job openings and networking.
  • Highlight any dual training (like facial + nail specialist) — employers love versatility.

Summary

You can’t perform services for pay in Florida until your license is officially active — and “working for free” or “just shampooing” still counts as practicing without a license. But you can absolutely stay productive while waiting: network, learn, and prepare for your first licensed day on the job.

If your license is delayed or you’re unsure which course you need to apply, here are approved options:

With the right preparation — and a little patience — you’ll be ready to start your Florida beauty career as soon as your license arrives!

Avoid These Mistakes When Applying for a Florida Cosmetology or Barber License

By Leave a Comment

Applying for your Florida license should be exciting! It means you’re almost ready to start your new career or get back into the industry. But for many applicants, a small mistake on their application can lead to weeks (or even months) of frustrating delays with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Sometimes, it’s even hard to get an answer about what’s causing the delay!

Whether you’re applying for a cosmetology, barber, nail specialist, facial specialist, or full specialist license, the process is similar. And honestly, the same mistakes happen across both the Barber Board and the Cosmetology Board (both are under the DBPR in Florida).

Like you, we want you to get licensed quickly. We have helped thousands of cosmetologists and barbers renew and transfer their licenses. Below are the most common errors applicants make, how to avoid them, and what to do if your application is delayed.

1. Taking the Wrong Required Course

One of the most common application mistakes is completing the wrong HIV/AIDS course or wrong continuing education course for your license type.

Here’s how it usually happens:

  • A new barber accidentally takes a 4-hour HIV/AIDS course for cosmetologists, when the Board of Barbers only accepts a 2-hour barber HIV/AIDS course that must be approved by the Barber Board.
  • A cosmetologist, nail specialist, facial specialist, or full specialist with a null and void license or an out-of-state transfer accidentally takes the 10-hour renewal course, which is meant for active renewals — not new licenses or null and void applications.

Tip:
Before you buy a course, double-check that it’s approved by the correct board:

  • Cosmetologists, Nail Specialists, Facial Specialists, Full Specialists: 4-Hour HIV/AIDS Course for Initial Licenses (for transfers and null and void applications)
  • Barbers: 2-Hour HIV/AIDS Course (for all barber transfers and renewals)
  • License Renewals or Delinquent/Expired Licenses: 10-Hour Continuing Education Course for the Cosmetology Board (for cosmetologists, facial specialists, nail specialists, and full specialists who have missed only one renewal deadline)

Taking the wrong course can delay your license approval because the DBPR will not process your application until they have a valid, board-approved certificate on file.

2. Name or Identification Mismatches

This one is very common — and very frustrating. It causes many delays.

Your school records, application, and ID must all match exactly. Even small differences — like a missing middle name or a married name — can trigger delays.

If the name on your 2-hour or 4-hour HIV/AIDS course certificate does not match your application and ID, the DBPR will ask you to get a new certificate with the correct name. In this case, contact the provider you took the HIV course from, explain that your name didn’t match your application, and kindly ask them to edit the certificate. Make sure you let them know exactly what your name should say.

If you’ve recently changed your name, update it with the DBPR before submitting your application. Include copies of your legal name-change documents if needed.

3. Incorrect Fee Payment

If your payment doesn’t go through, your application doesn’t even make it into the review queue.

Check that:

  • You’ve paid the correct amount for your license type.
  • The card or check clears successfully.
  • You’re using the most recent version of the DBPR application form (fees can change!).

The DBPR won’t contact you until after your payment attempt fails — which adds even more time.

4. Forgetting to Check Your Application Status

You don’t have to wait in the dark! You can monitor your progress online:

  1. Visit myfloridalicense.com.
  2. Log in to your account.
  3. Select “Application Status.”
  4. Look for notes like “Deficiency Letter Sent” or “Pending Review.”

If something is missing, fix it quickly. Applicants who respond within a few days often get approved much faster than those who wait weeks to reply.

5. It Got Lost in the Mail

So you filled out your forms, wrote your check, mailed everything to the Florida DBPR, and waited… and waited. Weeks have passed, and still nothing shows up online. Unfortunately, you’re not alone — lost applications are one of the most frustrating issues for new Florida cosmetology and barber professionals.

Here’s what to do if your license application, renewal, or payment seems to have disappeared somewhere between your mailbox and Tallahassee.

1. First, Check If It’s Really Lost

Before assuming the worst, check these three things:

  • Processing Time: DBPR can take 4–6 weeks (sometimes longer) to process mailed applications, especially after renewal season or holidays.
  • Online Lookup: Visit myfloridalicense.com and search your name under “Verify a License.” If nothing appears after a few weeks, it may not have been received yet.
  • Bank or Card Payment: If your check hasn’t been cashed or your card isn’t charged after three weeks, that’s a red flag your packet didn’t make it.

If all signs point to “lost,” it’s time to act.

2. Contact the DBPR Immediately

You’ll need to confirm whether they ever received your application.

Call or email the Board Office that handles your license type:

Have this information ready:

  • Your full name (exactly as listed on your ID)
  • The mailing date and the address you sent it from
  • Your payment details (check number, card info, or money order receipt)
  • A copy of your original application and course certificates

If they can’t locate it, they’ll usually ask you to resubmit — electronically or by mail.

3. Resend Your Application — the Smart Way

If you have to send it again, make it trackable.

  • Use Certified Mail or a delivery service with tracking (UPS, FedEx, USPS Priority).
  • Include a short note at the top of your application that says:
    “Duplicate submission — original mailed on [date] and may have been lost in transit.”
  • Attach proof of your first payment attempt (like a check copy or receipt).

If your check from the first submission hasn’t been cashed, you can usually resend a new one. If it has been cashed but the file can’t be found, the DBPR can help locate or credit the payment toward your new application.

4. Switch to Online Applications When Possible

If your license type allows it, submitting online is the fastest and safest way to go.

Online DBPR applications are available for:

  • Cosmetologists
  • Barbers
  • Nail Specialists
  • Facial Specialists
  • Full Specialists

You can find the correct portal here:
👉 Apply Online at MyFloridaLicense.com

Online applications are processed faster, and you’ll receive confirmation as soon as your payment goes through.

6. Final Tips to Avoid Delays

  • Always use the DBPR’s most recent application form.
  • Review every page carefully before submitting.
  • Keep copies of everything you send.
  • Respond to DBPR letters or emails immediately.
  • Make sure your HIV/AIDS or CE course certificate matches your license type and name exactly.
  • Apply online whenever possible.

Summary

Getting your Florida cosmetology, barber, nail specialist, facial specialist, or full specialist license approved doesn’t have to take months. Most delays are caused by small, fixable errors — especially taking the wrong required course or forgetting paperwork.

If you’re still waiting for approval and realize your course might not match your license type, you can retake the correct version online from an approved Florida provider right away:

With a complete, accurate application — and the right course certificate — your license can be issued much faster, so you can start working legally in Florida.

FAQ: Florida Cosmetology and Barber License Applications

How long does it usually take for the DBPR to process my application?

For mailed applications, it can take around 3–6 weeks, sometimes longer during busy seasons like renewals or holidays. Online applications are often processed faster, especially if all documents and payments are correct the first time.

Can I call the DBPR to speed up my license approval?

Calling won’t usually “speed up” your place in the application line, but it can help you find out if something is missing or incorrect. Fixing a deficiency quickly is one of the best ways to avoid extra delays. Do not be afraid to call and email. Sometimes you can get incorrect info from calls, so call again if you think this is the case.

What if I realize I took the wrong HIV/AIDS or CE course?

If you took the wrong course, contact the provider and confirm whether it’s approved for your license type. If it’s not, you’ll need to take the correct course. Once you have the right certificate, submit it to the DBPR as soon as possible so they can continue processing your application. These classes are less than $20, so it is a small and easy to fix mistake.

Can I work in a salon or barbershop while my Florida license is pending?

In most cases, you must wait until your license is officially issued and active before performing services that require a license. Some salons may offer support roles that don’t require a license, but always follow Florida law and DBPR rules before providing any services to the public.

Expired Barber License? How to Get Your Florida Barber License Back (Fast!)

By 2 Comments

Many of in the barbering profession have taken a break at some point. Life happens. You might have stepped away to explore a different career, maybe you moved out of state, or maybe that July deadline slipped your mind. Health issues, financial struggles, or just plain burnout can also be a factor. Whatever the reason, if you’ve been away from the barber chair and now feel the desire to return, you’re not alone.

Expired license posts are some of our most visited articles on this website. We’ve helps thousands of barbers and other professionals get their licenses back quickly. Yes, this is FloridaCosmetologist.com, but we have nothing but love for Florida barbers (and restricted barbers) and want to help you navigate this process without a lot delays and headaches.

You might be thinking this process is complicated and expensive, or maybe you’re just unsure where to start. We’re here to help you get your Florida barber license back and start serving clients again in the Sunshine State. The process is straightforward once you know the specific requirements and steps.

Let’s walk through the three steps to renew your delinquent or null and void barber license.

Expired Barber License Florida

Step 1: Find Out Your License Status

The first and most important thing to do is determine the official status of your license with the Florida Barbers’ Board. The terms “expired” or “lapsed” are not used; your license will be designated as either “Delinquent” or “Null and Void.” This distinction is crucial because it dictates the requirements, fees, and application forms you will need.

  • Delinquent, Active: This status means you have missed one renewal deadline.
  • Null and Void: This status applies if you have missed two or more renewal deadlines.

If you are unsure of your license status, you can check it on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) website.

Once you find your name, you’ll see one of the statuses below.

Status #1: Current, Active

This means your license is in good standing and ready for renewal by the next deadline.

Status #2: Delinquent, Active

If your license is delinquent, it’s still considered “active” in the system, but you’ve missed the last renewal deadline. To get back to a “Current, Active” status, you will need to complete the required continuing education and pay the renewal and late fees.

Status #3: Null and Void

A “Null and Void” status means your license cannot be renewed. However, the good news is that you may be able to apply for a new license by following a specific application process. The date listed will show the last time your license was active.

Step 2: Complete the Correct Continuing Education Requirements and Fill Out the Correct Form

Now that you know your license status, you can complete the necessary steps to get it back. The requirements differ based on whether your license is delinquent or null and void.

Whether your license is delinquent or null and void, you will need a Florida Barber Board-Approved 2-Hour HIV course (Online 2-hour HIV course available here). Make sure it is approved by the Barber Board- Courses only approved by the Florida Cosmetology Board will not satisfy the Barber Board requirement.

The main difference between the delinquent and null and void process will be the forms or paperwork you need to submit with the HIV course.

For Delinquent, Active Licenses

If you missed only one renewal deadline, the process is simple.

  • Complete the required 2-hour continuing education course. Florida barbers are required to complete a 2-hour HIV CE course.
  • Pay the applicable fees. After completing your course, log in to your DBPR account (www.myfloridalicense.com) to pay the renewal and late fees.

Required Fees for Delinquent Licenses:

  • Barber: A renewal fee of $75 plus a $25 late fee.

For Null and Void Licenses

If your license is “Null and Void,” you can’t simply renew it. Instead, you’ll apply for a new license.

  • Complete a 2-hour HIV/AIDS course. This is a required course for a new license application.
  • Fill out the Null and Void application. The application form for barbers is specifically designed for this purpose. The correct form is **DBPR BAR 6**.
  • Pay the required application fee.

Step 3: Get Your Barber License and Get Back to Work!

With your continuing education complete, your fees paid, and your application submitted, you’re on your way to getting back to work. The process might take some time, a few days or weeks.

After your new or renewed license is issued, the you will get a license to print via email (no need to wait by the mailbox). You can return to a familiar shop, find a new one, or even consider renting a chair or opening your own barbershop.

Your skills and experience are valuable. Network with other professionals, reach out to former colleagues, and refresh your resume. You may need to explain your time away from the industry, so be prepared to discuss your efforts to get back to barbering.

The journey back to being a licensed Barber (or Restricted Barber) starts now. Take the first step by completing the required continuing education course for your license status.

Are you ready to get back in the barbershop?

Florida Barber Board-Approved 2-Hour HIV Course

How to Get a Waxing License: Everything You Need to Know

By 10 Comments

If you’re interested in starting a career in the beauty or cosmetology industry, waxing may be the perfect option for you. Waxing is a popular hair removal treatment that is growing in demand. In order to offer waxing services, you will need to obtain an appropriate professional license from the Florida Board of Cosmetology. Spoiler alert – it isn’t a “waxing license”.

In this article, we’ll discuss the educational requirements and procedures involved in obtaining a license to perform waxing services, so you can get started on your career as a professional waxing specialist.

What type of license do I need to perform waxing services in Florida?

There are actually three licenses from the Florida cosmetology board that can allow you to perform waxing services: the facial specialist license, the full specialist license, and the cosmetology license. Let’s review each license type to see which one is right for you.

[Read more…] about How to Get a Waxing License: Everything You Need to Know

Can You Get HIV from Salon, Cosmetology, Nail, or Barber Services?

By 1 Comment

You may have heard that you can get HIV from salon, cosmetology, nail, or barber services. But is this actually true? Can you really contract HIV from getting your hair done or getting a pedicure? In this blog post, we will explore the possibility of contracting HIV from these services and answer the question once and for all: can you get HIV from salon, cosmetology, nail, or barber services?

Today, we are going to answer those questions and talk about how to keep yourself safe in and out of the salon.

More than anything, I hope this article calms any anxiety you have and educates you about HIV. There is so much stigma surrounding this virus, and education is how we can fight misinformation and outdated ideas.
[Read more…] about Can You Get HIV from Salon, Cosmetology, Nail, or Barber Services?

Brow Services at the Brow Bar: Everything You Need to Know

By 2 Comments

Looking to get your brows done? Wondering what services are offered at a brow bar and which one is right for you?

A brow bar can offer a range of services, from threading and tweezing to waxing and tinting. In this article, we will discuss the different types of brow services that are typically offered at a brow bar. We will also talk about the benefits of each service and how to choose the right one for you.

If you are thinking of opening up your own brow bar, this article will also answer some questions you may have about training and starting your own brow business.
[Read more…] about Brow Services at the Brow Bar: Everything You Need to Know