If you hold a cosmetology license in another state, you can transfer it to Florida through a process called endorsement. Thanks to HB 1193 (The Occupational Freedom and Opportunity Act), most out-of-state cosmetologists no longer need to take the Florida exam or meet Florida’s education requirements. This guide explains exactly how to transfer your cosmetology license to Florida, what documents you need, and how long the process takes.
Florida Cosmetology License Transfer at a Glance
| Transfer Method | Licensure by Endorsement |
| Exam Required? | No (for most applicants since July 1, 2020) |
| Application Form | COSMO 4-B |
| Endorsement Fee | $85 |
| HIV/AIDS Course | Required (4 hours, DBPR-approved) |
| Processing Time | 2-6 weeks (typically) |
| Apply Online | MyFloridaLicense.com |
Do You Qualify for Endorsement?
You qualify to transfer your cosmetology license to Florida by endorsement if you hold a current, active cosmetology license in another U.S. state. Your license must be in good standing with no pending disciplinary actions.
Since July 1, 2020, Florida no longer requires out-of-state cosmetologists to take the Florida exam or prove they completed a specific number of training hours. If your state issued you a license, Florida accepts it.
What If Your State Has Lower Hour Requirements?
Before HB 1193, Florida required endorsement applicants from states with fewer than 1,200 training hours to complete additional education or pass the Florida exam. This requirement has been eliminated for most applicants.
However, if your original license was based on fewer than 1,200 hours and you have held it for less than one year, you may still need to either complete additional training hours to reach 1,200, or pass the Florida cosmetology examination.
If you have held your license for at least one year, you qualify for endorsement regardless of your original state’s hour requirements.
Step 1: Complete the 4-Hour HIV/AIDS Course
All endorsement applicants must complete a 4-hour HIV/AIDS course from a DBPR-approved provider. This is the same course required for initial Florida licensure.
The course must be completed within two years before submitting your application. Many providers offer the course online for $20 to $50. Keep your certificate of completion to submit with your application.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
You will need the following documents to apply:
Proof of current licensure: Request a license verification or certification letter from your current state’s licensing board. Some states offer online verification that Florida can access directly. Others require you to request an official letter. The verification must confirm your license is current, active, and in good standing.
HIV/AIDS course certificate: Proof of completion from a DBPR-approved provider within the past two years.
Government-issued photo ID: Driver’s license, passport, or state ID.
Social Security Number: Required for the application.
Application fee: $85 paid by credit card or electronic check.
Step 3: Submit the Endorsement Application
You can apply online or by mail:
Online (recommended): Go to MyFloridaLicense.com, create an account or log in, and select “Apply for a New License.” Choose Cosmetologist and then Endorsement. Complete the application, upload your documents, and pay the $85 fee.
By mail: Download the COSMO 4-B application form from the DBPR website. Complete the form, attach all required documents and a check or money order for $85, and mail to:
Department of Business and Professional Regulation
Board of Cosmetology
2601 Blair Stone Road
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0783
Online applications are processed faster than mailed applications.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
The DBPR reviews endorsement applications and verifies your out-of-state license. Processing time is typically 2 to 6 weeks, depending on how quickly your original state responds to verification requests and whether your application is complete.
You can check your application status online through your MyFloridaLicense.com account.
Do not practice cosmetology in Florida until you receive your Florida license. Your out-of-state license does not authorize you to work in Florida.
Step 5: Receive Your Florida License
Once approved, your Florida cosmetology license will be issued. You can print your license from your MyFloridaLicense.com account. You are now authorized to practice cosmetology in Florida.
Your Florida license will be assigned to a renewal group (Group 1 or Group 2) and will expire on October 31 of odd or even years. You will need to renew every two years and complete 10 hours of continuing education per renewal cycle. See our Florida Cosmetology License Renewal guide for details.
Special Cases
Military Members, Veterans, and Spouses
Florida offers expedited licensing and fee waivers for military-connected applicants:
Expedited processing: Active duty military members, veterans, and their spouses receive priority processing for endorsement applications.
Fee waiver: The $85 endorsement fee may be waived for eligible military applicants. Submit the Military Member/Veteran/Spouse Fee Waiver form with your application along with supporting documentation (DD-214, military orders, marriage certificate as applicable).
Temporary practice permit: Military spouses who hold a valid out-of-state license may be eligible for a temporary permit to practice while their endorsement application is processed.
Contact DBPR Military Services at myfloridalicense.com/military-services or call (850) 487-1395 for details.
Licenses from U.S. Territories
Cosmetology licenses from U.S. territories (Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, etc.) are generally eligible for endorsement under the same rules as state licenses. Contact the DBPR if you have questions about your specific territory.
Licenses from Other Countries
Cosmetology licenses from other countries are not eligible for endorsement. If you were licensed outside the United States, you must apply for a Florida license by examination:
1. Submit the COSMO 2 application (Examination – Foreign Applicant)
2. Complete the 4-hour HIV/AIDS course
3. Pass the Florida cosmetology examination (written theory and written clinical)
4. Pay applicable fees
You do not need to complete a Florida cosmetology school program, but you must pass the state exam.
Apprenticeship Licenses
If your out-of-state license was obtained through an apprenticeship program rather than school-based training, it is not eligible for endorsement in Florida. Florida does not recognize apprenticeship training. You would need to apply by examination.
States with Common Transfer Questions
Transferring from New York to Florida
New York requires 1,000 training hours for cosmetology licensure, which is fewer than Florida’s 1,200 hours. However, under HB 1193, New York-licensed cosmetologists can transfer to Florida by endorsement without additional hours or exams, as long as the license is current and active. Complete the HIV/AIDS course and submit the COSMO 4-B application.
Transferring from Texas to Florida
Texas requires 1,000 hours for cosmetology (Cosmetology Operator license). Texas-licensed cosmetologists can transfer to Florida by endorsement. The process is the same: complete the HIV/AIDS course and submit the endorsement application. No exam required.
Transferring from California to Florida
California requires 1,600 hours for cosmetology, which exceeds Florida’s requirements. California-licensed cosmetologists easily qualify for Florida endorsement. Complete the HIV/AIDS course and apply.
Transferring from Georgia to Florida
Georgia requires 1,500 hours for a Master Cosmetologist license. Georgia-licensed cosmetologists qualify for Florida endorsement with no additional requirements beyond the HIV/AIDS course.
What States Have Reciprocity with Florida?
Reciprocity works both ways. If you hold a Florida cosmetology license and want to practice in another state, each state has its own endorsement or reciprocity rules:
States that typically accept Florida licenses easily: Most states accept Florida’s 1,200-hour requirement without issue. You will need to apply for endorsement in that state and may need to pass their state exam or complete additional requirements depending on their rules.
States with higher hour requirements: A few states require more than 1,200 hours (Oregon requires 1,700, for example). If you want to transfer your Florida license to one of these states, you may need additional training or work experience.
Always check with the specific state board where you want to practice. Requirements change, and each state handles out-of-state applicants differently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer my cosmetology license to Florida without taking an exam?
Yes. Since July 1, 2020, most out-of-state cosmetologists can transfer to Florida by endorsement without taking the Florida exam. You must hold a current, active license in another state and complete a 4-hour HIV/AIDS course.
How much does it cost to transfer a cosmetology license to Florida?
The endorsement application fee is $85. You will also need to pay for the HIV/AIDS course, which typically costs $20 to $50. Total cost is approximately $105 to $135.
How long does it take to transfer a cosmetology license to Florida?
Processing typically takes 2 to 6 weeks after you submit a complete application. Online applications are usually processed faster than mailed applications. Delays can occur if your original state is slow to verify your license.
Do I need to complete Florida cosmetology school if I’m already licensed in another state?
No. If you hold a current, active cosmetology license in another state, you do not need to complete any Florida school hours. You qualify for endorsement based on your existing license.
Can I work in Florida while my transfer application is processing?
No. You cannot practice cosmetology in Florida until you receive your Florida license. Your out-of-state license does not authorize you to work in Florida. Wait until your endorsement is approved before accepting clients or employment.
What if my out-of-state license is expired?
Your license must be current and active to qualify for endorsement. If your license has expired, you will need to renew it in your original state first, or apply for a Florida license by examination instead of endorsement.
Do I need to be a Florida resident to get a Florida cosmetology license?
No. Florida does not require residency for cosmetology licensure. You can hold a Florida license regardless of where you live. This is useful if you plan to move to Florida or want to work there temporarily.
What is the HIV/AIDS course and where do I take it?
The HIV/AIDS course is a 4-hour training covering HIV/AIDS awareness, transmission prevention, and infection control as it relates to cosmetology services. It must be completed through a DBPR-approved provider. Many providers offer the course online for $20 to $50. Your completion certificate must be dated within two years of your application.
Official Resources
Apply for Endorsement Online:
MyFloridaLicense.com
Florida Board of Cosmetology:
Phone: (850) 487-1395
myfloridalicense.com/cosmetology
COSMO 4-B Application (Endorsement):
Available at DBPR Online Services
Military Services:
DBPR Military Services
HB 1193 (Occupational Freedom and Opportunity Act):
Florida Senate – HB 1193
For complete information on Florida cosmetology licensing, see our Florida Cosmetology License guide.