Everything a Florida-licensed cosmetologist, facial specialist, nail specialist, or full specialist needs to know to renew on time — in plain language.
Florida cosmetologists, facial specialists, nail specialists, and full specialists must complete 10 hours of continuing education every renewal cycle, by the October 31 deadline. The 10 hours include required topics like HIV/AIDS, sanitation, and laws & rules — you can’t substitute general hours for these. Licensees who’ve held their license 10+ years with no discipline may qualify for an exemption as of July 2024.
Florida’s CE requirement was reduced from 16 hours to 10 hours in 2020, and it still breaks down into specific required topics rather than open electives. Here’s the full breakdown:
| Topic | Hours Required |
|---|---|
| HIV/AIDS | 1 hour |
| Sanitation & Sterilization | 3 hours |
| OSHA | 0.5 hours |
| Workers’ Compensation | 0.5 hours |
| Laws & Rules | 2 hours |
| Chemical Makeup | 1 hour |
| Environmental Issues | 1 hour |
| Elective (Human Trafficking Awareness) | 1 hour |
Florida cosmetology licenses renew annually, with all CE hours due by October 31. Because reporting to DBPR typically happens within 24 hours of course completion through approved providers, finishing close to the deadline is workable — but earlier is safer in case of any last-minute issues.
As of July 1, 2024, licensees who have held their license continuously for at least 10 years with no disciplinary action on record may be exempt from the CE requirement. This is a recent rule change, so if you believe you qualify, confirm your exemption status directly with DBPR before skipping your renewal course — providers can’t make that determination for you.
Florida cosmetologists, facial specialists, nail specialists, and full specialists need 10 hours of continuing education each annual renewal cycle, covering specific required topics.
The renewal deadline is October 31 each year.
As of July 1, 2024, licensees who have held their license continuously for at least 10 years with no disciplinary action may be exempt. Confirm your eligibility with DBPR before skipping a renewal course.
