Step By Step Guide To Become A Barber In Florida 2025
Becoming a barber in Florida involves a series of specific steps that adhere to state guidelines. This guide provides a detailed walk-through of the required steps.
Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements
To become a licensed barber in Florida, candidates must be at least 16 years old and possess a high school diploma or a GED equivalent.
Step 2: Enroll in a Florida Barbering Program
Enroll in a barbering program accredited by the Florida Department of Education or the Florida Commission for Independent Education. The program must consist of at least 1,200 hours of barber training, covering topics such as hair cutting, styling, shaving, and sanitation. Schools like Prestige Barber College offer state-approved programs.
Step 3: Complete an HIV/AIDS Course
All aspiring barbers in Florida must complete a course on HIV/AIDS. The training must be conducted by a Florida Board-approved provider and typically lasts 2 to 4 hours. Completion ensures you understand safety and prevention practices.
Step 4: Apply for the Florida Barber License Exam
Once you've completed your education, apply for the Florida Barber License Exam through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Fill out the Barber Examination Application and pay the application fee of $223.
Step 5: Pass the Florida Barber Licensing Exams
The licensing exam consists of a written test and a practical skills test. The written exam covers Florida barbering laws, regulations, and theoretical knowledge, while the practical test assesses hands-on skills. Scheduling and test locations are managed by Pearson VUE, an approved testing vendor.
Step 6: Submit License Application
After passing both portions of the exam, submit a complete Barber License Application through the DBPR. Include proof of passing exam scores, a copy of completion certificates from the required educational and HIV/AIDS courses, and pay the initial licensing fee of $145.
Step 7: Maintain and Renew Your License
A Florida Barber License must be renewed every two years. During each renewal cycle, complete a continuing education course that includes a minimum of two hours on HIV/AIDS and three hours on sanitation and safety. The renewal fee is currently $105 as listed by the Florida Board of Cosmetology.
Following these steps will ensure compliance with Florida’s statutory requirements and help you achieve professional status as a barber in the state.