Quick answer Florida cosmetologists, facial specialists, nail specialists, and full specialists must complete 10 hours of continuing education every renewal cycle, by the November 6th deadline (Due to Hurricane Isaias). 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.
How many hours do I need?
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 |
When is the renewal deadline? Licenses expire October 31st every even year. However, due to Hurricane Isaias, the deadline has been extended to November 6th.
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.
Who is exempt?
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.
How to complete your CE online
- Choose a DBPR-approved course package covering all required topics.
- Complete the course online, at your own pace, on any device.
- Pass the built-in knowledge checks as you go.
- Download your certificate immediately upon completion.
- Your completion is reported to DBPR — typically within 24 hours.
This guide reflects Florida cosmetology CE requirements as published as of August 2026. Rules can change — always confirm current requirements with the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) before your renewal deadline.
Frequently asked questions
How many CE hours do I need to renew my Florida cosmetology license?+
Florida cosmetologists, facial specialists, nail specialists, and full specialists need 10 hours of continuing education each annual renewal cycle, covering specific required topics.
When is the Florida cosmetology CE renewal deadline?+
The renewal deadline is October 31 each year unless it falls on a weekend.
Is anyone exempt from Florida cosmetology CE requirements?+
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.
