Florida Cosmetologist

How to Transfer Your Cosmetology License to Florida


Thinking of taking your hair, nail, skincare, braiding, or other beauty skills south? Whether this move is just for the winter months or permanent, you are probably excited to get the process started right now.

However, maybe the initial excitement wore off as soon as you clicked on the Florida Cosmetology Board website. It can be tad boring, but also overwhelming and confusing.

That is where we come in.

We want you to stay excited about this move and adventure, because it is exciting! We have personally assisted many other hair, nail, facial professionals like yourself successfully make this transition, quickly and easily.

To make everything less overwhelming, we have broken the licensing process down into six bite-sized steps.

First, here is a free printable checklist to guide you through all of the steps for getting a cosmetology, nail, facial, or full specialist license.

And below is a quick video with a few more details on each licensing step.

And if those two resources have answered your questions, here is our cosmetology board-approved initial 4-hour HIV/AIDS course for cosmetology, nail, facial, and full specialist licenses and registrations.

Purchase 4-Hour HIV Course

Sometimes, it can take a couple of weeks or months to get everything together and processed, so it is best to get everything in order now to avoid delays.

Some people like to know a few (or a lot) more details about the application process and cosmetology profession in Florida. If that is you, let’s get started.

Step 1: Learn Florida Professional Terminology

You may call yourself a hairstylist, nail tech, or esthetician now. However, in Florida, you may have a different professional title. This information is especially handy before you search for applications and navigate the Florida Cosmetology Board website. The following licenses issued by the Florida Cosmetology board.

Cosmetologists

An equivalent license may be a Hairstylist, Stylist, Hairdresser, or Beautician.

In Florida, a licensed cosmetologist is a professional that focuses on hair, skin, and nails. They have the highest educational hour requirements, but are licensed to provide the widest variety of services.

If you obtain a cosmetology license, there is no need to seek separate nail or facial registrations.

Specialty Registration Licenses

This is for those that are not trained cosmetologists, but have completed training in other specialty areas.

Facial Specialist

An equivalent license in another state could be titled Esthetician, Medical Aesthetician, Makeup Artist, or Skin Care Specialist.

A facial specialist may perform facials in the state of Florida. Facials may include the massaging or treating of the face or scalp with oils, creams, lotions, or other preparations.

Nail Specialist

An equivalent license in another state could be titled Manicurist, Pedicurist, or Nail Technician.

A nail specialist may practice manicuring and pedicuring in the State of Florida, which includes the cutting, polishing, tinting, coloring, cleansing, adding, or extending of the nails, and massaging of the hands. It also includes the shaping, polishing, tinting, or cleansing of the nails of the feet, and massaging or beautifying of the feet.

Full Specialist

A ‘full specialist’ is a combination of the nail specialist and facial specialist registrations.

“Other” Registrants

Prior to July 1st, 2020, the below were regulated in Florida. However, they no longer are licensed under the cosmetology board.

  • Hair Braiding (Natural Hair Stylist, Braider)
  • Hair Wrapping
  • Body Wrapping

Barbers and Massage Therapists

Both Barbers and Massage Therapists have their own respective Boards.

Click here to learn more about transferring a Barber license to Florida.

This is where you can learn more about transferring a massage license to Florida.

Step 2: Meet the Florida Minimum Education Hours/Exam Requirements

The good news is that most states require more hours in almost every profession. So the chances you have enough hours are very good. The even better news is that in 2020 Florida made is MUCH easier to apply by endorsement for cosmetologists.

If you have an active cosmetology license you can now look at the endorsement application, Cosmetologist License by Endorsement (COSMO 4-B).

If your license is not valid, you should read more about the difference between applying by examination or endorsement. You may need to take and exam, or get your a license you previously held back in good standing.

Step 3: Take a 4-Hour HIV/AIDS Course

Cosmetology board applicants, including cosmetologists, nail specialists, facial specialists, and full specialists, are required to complete a Florida Cosmetology Board-approved 4-hour HIV/AIDS course.

Purchase 4-Hour HIV/AIDS Course

Documentation, or a certificate from the completed course, should be included with your application.

Step 4: Find Your Application

Florida has several applications for each license and specialty registration. Make sure to find the correct application for your specific field (cosmetology, nail specialist, facial specialist, full specialist, or braider) and your current license situation (endorsement, out-of-state, examination).

Find your application here: Board of Cosmetology Applications

Step 5: Verify/Certify Your License/Transcript

Don’t forget to verify your current license or submit your school transcripts, if needed. Submitting a copy of your license will not meet this requirement. Contact the state where you are licensed and have the license certification sent to the Department.

Most state boards have a website page that allows licensees to request that the board verify or certify license. You may pay a small fee to have this information sent to the Florida board for you. If mailed, the certification needs to be sent to the address on the application, not to you.

Example: Illinois Professional License Certification

Step 6: Wait and Prepare

Continue to plan your move while you wait for your license. You can find your dream job, or begin your salon business plan. Florida is an amazing place with unique opportunities. Enjoy dreaming and making your plans a reality.

The good news is that you are already done with steps 1 and 2. For most of you, it is time to move on to step 3, the Initial 4-hour HIV/AIDS course. And it is an easy step you can complete right now.

You can have Step 3 done today for only $16 and be even closer to beginning your career in Florida.

Initial 4 hour HIV/AIDS course

And here is that step-by-step checklist to guide you through the process one more time.

Welcome to Florida!

Still Have Questions?

Contact us here, and we’ll try our best to get you the information you need.

Related Articles

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

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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

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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.

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

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If you are a cosmetologist in another country moving to Florida, you are probably excited about the warm weather and endless opportunities that draw people to the Sunshine State. But, you probably are not excited about the stress and paperwork of getting or “transferring” an out-of-country cosmetology license to Florida. That is why I am here today – to help you with this international move.

If you are moving to Florida but licensed in another U.S state, this isn’t your article, but you can get yours here – How to Transfer a Cosmetology License to Florida.

Today, I am going to help you get started with the process and answer the questions you’re probably having about getting licensed as a cosmetologist, nail specialist (esthetician), or nail specialist (nail technician).

[Read more…] about Help! I Am an Out-Of-Country Cosmetologist Moving to Florida

Can You Have Cosmetology Licenses in Multiple States?

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I have a cosmetology license in (insert state), but I am considering moving to (insert different state). I really do not want to give up my other license. What happens to my old license? Can I have two cosmetology (nail or facial) licenses?

Of course, you can! Trust me.

I have had multiple professional licenses in multiple states for many years. I have helped thousands of applicants get licensed in the massage and cosmetology fields in a second state. And I have written many articles on license reciprocity, or the lack thereof, in the health and beauty fields. Here are some questions you probably have as you prepare to move or get licensed in another state.

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How to Transfer a Barber License to Florida

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Moving to a new state is usually exciting. Florida’s sunshine, beaches, and opportunities make it an attractive place to live and work. However, once you start to transfer a barber license to Florida (or any other state) the process can become overwhelming. That is because it is new and unfamiliar.

Helping barbers transfer a barber license to Florida is not new to us. We have helped thousands of professionals transfer licenses to Florida, quickly and easily. Whether you are moving to Miami, Orlando, or (best coast-west coast) Tampa, let’s cover the licensing process, step by step, and help you take the first steps today towards getting your license. And we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions we hear from new licensees and applicants.

If you are ready to get started on transferring your license to Florida, we are ready to help you get started on this process. Let’s go.

3 Steps to Transfer a Barber License to Florida

  1. Complete a Barber Board-approved 2-Hour HIV/AIDS course
  2. Fill out the appropriate application and pay the application fee
  3. Print your license

Yes, that does seem simple. But we know you still have questions about the required hours, applications, and licensed barbershops. So, let’s cover each step in a little more detail.
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Everything You Need To Know About The Florida Cosmetology Exam

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beach image with article title

You made it through cosmetology school (1200 hours!). You are only one step away from your dream career in Florida!

That last step may feel difficult.

If you graduated from a Florida cosmetology program or are moving to Florida and not able to apply by endorsement, you must pass the Florida cosmetology exam to get your Florida cosmetology license.

I know you want to pass your exam and get your Florida cosmetology license with as little stress as possible. You may be confused about the requirements and even a little (or a lot) nervous about taking a professional licensing exam.

Whatever you do, do not let this exam get in the way of your career plans. Even if you struggle with exam anxiety, previously failed, or are taking the exam after being out of school for years; I believe you can do this.

I talk to people in similar situations all the time who go on to pass their exam and get their license. A majority of the time, people just do not know where to begin. The unknown creates anxiety and typically halts progress towards goals or dreams.

I will walk you step by step through this process and hopefully calm the fear of the unknown along the way. Plus, I have a short practice quiz for you at the end of the article.
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