Florida State Laws & Regulations

Understanding Florida's cosmetology laws and regulations is essential for passing your exams and maintaining compliance throughout your career. A significant portion of both exams tests your knowledge of these state-specific requirements.

Regulatory Structure

DBPR - Department of Business and Professional Regulation

The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) is the state agency responsible for overseeing all professional licensing, including cosmetology. The DBPR:

• Issues and renews licenses
• Conducts inspections
• Investigates complaints
• Enforces disciplinary actions
• Maintains license records

Contact: www.MyFloridaLicense.com

Florida Board of Cosmetology

The Board of Cosmetology operates under the DBPR and consists of industry professionals and public members appointed by the Governor. The Board:

• Sets standards for education and training
• Approves examination content
• Establishes practice standards
• Reviews disciplinary cases
• Approves continuing education providers

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Chapter 477, Florida Statutes - The Florida Cosmetology Act

Chapter 477 is the primary law governing cosmetology in Florida. Key provisions include:

Purpose (477.011)

"The Legislature deems it necessary in the interest of public health to regulate the practice of cosmetology in this state."

Key Definitions (477.013)

License Types Under Chapter 477

1. Cosmetologist - Full scope of practice
2. Facial Specialist (Esthetician) - Skin care services only
3. Nail Specialist - Manicure and pedicure services only
4. Full Specialist - Both facial and nail services
5. Salon License - Required for any establishment

Services NOT Requiring a License (Exemptions)

As of July 1, 2020, the following services are deregulated in Florida:

• Hair braiding
• Hair wrapping
• Body wrapping

Additionally, no license is required for:

• Makeup/cosmetology services for theatrical, film, or entertainment productions
• Services provided to actors, musicians, or other talent (not the general public)

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Chapter 61G5, Florida Administrative Code

Chapter 61G5 contains the detailed rules and regulations implementing Chapter 477. This includes:

• Application procedures
• Examination requirements
• Salon requirements
• Sanitation standards
• Continuing education requirements
• Disciplinary guidelines

Key Sections to Know

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HIV/AIDS Education Requirement

Florida requires HIV/AIDS education for all cosmetology professionals:

Initial Licensure

• 4-hour HIV/AIDS course required
• Must be completed within 2 years prior to application submission
• Must be from a DBPR-approved provider
• Covers transmission, prevention, infection control, and legal requirements

Why This Matters

Cosmetologists may come into contact with blood and bodily fluids during services. Understanding HIV/AIDS and other bloodborne pathogens is essential for:

• Protecting clients
• Protecting yourself
• Proper sanitation procedures
• Legal compliance

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Continuing Education Requirements

To renew your Florida cosmetology license, you must complete continuing education every 2-year renewal period:

10-Hour CE Requirement Breakdown

CE Exemption (Effective July 1, 2024)

Licensees who meet ALL of the following criteria may be exempt from CE:

• Held an active Florida license for at least 10 consecutive years
• No disciplinary action during that period

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License Renewal

Renewal Schedule

• Individual licenses expire October 31st every 2 years
• Group 1: Odd years (2025, 2027, etc.)
• Group 2: Even years (2026, 2028, etc.)
• Salon licenses expire November 30th of even years

Renewal Requirements

1. Complete 10 hours of approved continuing education
2. Pay renewal fee
3. Verify current mailing address
4. Complete renewal application online or by mail

Delinquent/Null and Void Licenses

• Delinquent: License expired but less than 12 months - can reactivate with CE + late fee
• Null and Void: License expired more than 12 months - must complete new 4-hour HIV/AIDS course and may need to retake exams

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Disciplinary Actions

The Board of Cosmetology can take disciplinary action for violations including:

• Practicing without a license
• Fraudulent conduct
• Violation of sanitation requirements
• Practicing under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Failure to display license
• Advertising violations
• Criminal convictions related to the profession

Possible Penalties

• Fines (up to $5,000 per violation)
• Probation
• License suspension
• License revocation
• Required additional education

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Key Takeaways

• The DBPR and Board of Cosmetology regulate all aspects of cosmetology in Florida
• Chapter 477 is the Florida Cosmetology Act - know its key provisions
• Chapter 61G5 contains the detailed rules and regulations
• HIV/AIDS education is mandatory for initial licensure and renewal
• Complete 10 hours of CE every 2 years to maintain your license
• Hair braiding, hair wrapping, and body wrapping are NOT regulated in Florida