How to become a barber in Florida
Florida barbers are licensed by the Florida Barbers' Board, Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed barber in Florida, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a barber in Florida?
- At least 16 years old
- Complete 900 hours of barber training at a qualifying Florida school or program
Florida barber license requirements
| Licensed by | Florida Barbers' Board, Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) |
|---|---|
| License name | Barber (a Restricted Barber license also exists) |
| Education or training | 900 hours at a Florida barbering school or public/government barbering program; schools may certify students to test after 600 hours. Restricted Barber: 600 hours (effective January 1, 2020). |
| Exam | Written exam scheduled through Pearson VUE after DBPR approves the application; you have 180 days from your first exam to pass. |
| License term | 2 years; barber and restricted barber licenses expire July 31 of every even year. |
| Continuing education | Renewal requires a Board-approved HIV/AIDS course from a Florida Barbers' Board-approved provider. |
| Reciprocity | Endorsement requires a current, active license elsewhere, a NACES education evaluation, a comparable written exam and at least 900 hours of training or apprenticeship; those who can't endorse may test if licensed at least one year. |
How much does it cost?
| Examination application fee | $150 |
|---|---|
| Endorsement application fee | $150 |
| Original barber license fee | $100 ($50 if licensed in the second year of the biennium) |
| Biennial renewal fee | $70 |
| License certification to another state | $25 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a barber in Florida
- Complete 900 hours at a Florida barbering school
- Submit the exam application and fees to DBPR
- Schedule the written exam with Pearson VUE after approval
- Pass the exam within 180 days of your first attempt
- Pay the original license fee and receive your license
- Renew every even-year July 31 with the required CE
Apply on the official Florida site
How do you check a barber's license in Florida?
- Search the name or license number on the official Florida barber license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.