In the State of Florida, barbers must obtain their license from the Barbers Board under the authority of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Florida offers levels of licenses for barbers with varying responsibilities and privileges.

TYPES OF BARBER LICENSES IN FLORIDA 

• Barber Assistant: While new licenses for barber assistants are no longer issued by the Barbers Board, in Florida, they do renew licensed barber assistants. Barber assistants primarily assist with shampooing hair and applying tonics or conditioner. They always work under the supervision of a barber.
• Barber: In Florida, licensed barbers are professionals with the authority to provide a range of services related to hair and beards. These services include shaving, cutting, trimming, coloring, shampooing, arranging, dressing, curling and waving. Barbers can also apply oils, lotions or creams to the face, scalp or neck using mechanical methods.
• Restricted Barber: Restricted barbers in Florida have limited services they can offer. They are allowed to perform hair cutting, shaving, shampooing, blow drying, and applying hair tonics and hair sprays.

WHY BECOME A LICENSED PROFESSIONAL BARBER?

1. Compliance: Obtaining a barber license demonstrates your commitment to complying with state regulations. This step is crucial for ensuring safety and guarantees that the services you provide meet the standards set by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
2. Expertise and Skills: Acquiring your license signifies that you have completed the training and showcases your competency in the field. It proves your ability to perform haircuts and stylish hairstyling, along with delivering impeccable shaves with proficiency.
3. Reputation: Clients prefer licensed barbers because they inspire trust and confidence in their abilities. It indicates that you have undergone training, acquired the necessary knowledge, and continuously updated your skills to provide high-quality services.
4. Advancing Your Career: Being a professional opens up opportunities in the barber industry. It allows you to work in establishments like top-tier barbershops, beauty salons, or even run your own business.
5. Growth: Obtaining a license is a milestone that showcases your dedication to your craft and commitment to continuous learning and self-improvement. It serves as proof of your development and career progression.

Being a licensed barber is an honor and a commitment to your craft. It ensures compliance with the law, improves career prospects, and builds client trust. Ultimately, it signifies your journey toward becoming a respected barber in your community and the industry.

PURSUING YOUR FLORIDA STATE BARBER LICENSE FOR THE FIRST TIME

Congratulations on taking the steps toward becoming a barber in the vibrant Sunshine State! At the Miami Barber Institute, we support you throughout the process and ensure your success. Below, you will find information on obtaining your Florida State Barber License for the first time.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a barber license in Florida, you need to meet the following criteria;

• Age: You must be at least 16 years old.
• Education: For a Restricted Barber license, you must complete at least 600 hours of training. To obtain the Barber license, you must complete 900 hours of training. In both cases, a school official should confirm your competency to take the Barber exam by verifying that you have completed the required training hours at a recognized barbering school in Florida before the exam date.

Examination

Please refer to the information provided in the Barber License Examination Candidate Information Booklet for guidance on the written barber examination (PLEASE PROVIDE LINK).

HIV/AIDS Course

To obtain a barber/restricted barber license in Florida, you must complete an Initial HIV/AIDS course approved by the board and submit your course completion certificate and your application. The HIV/AIDS course should have been completed within two years before applying. It should be at least two hours long. Note: The 4-hour cosmetology course cannot substitute for the 2-hour barbers course. For details, please consult our list of board-approved Initial HIV/AIDS Courses (PLEASE PROVIDE LINK).

Fee

Submit the fee as indicated in your application. If submitting online, you can make a payment using either a credit card or an electronic check.
If you are mailing your application, please include a payable check to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. There are benefits for military veterans, their spouses and Florida National Guard members, such as fee waivers, reimbursements or discounts. For information on these options, please visit the DBPR Military Services page (PLEASE PROVIDE LINK).

Application Process

To apply for your State of Florida Barber License, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Schedule the Exam: Visit the website of the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) to schedule your examination. You can find all the information at DBPR License Examination Information. (PLEASE PROVIDE LINK).
2. Complete the Application: Access either the “Online Services” link or the “Printable Application” link at the bottom of the Florida DBPR Barber License Application page to complete your application. (PLEASE PROVIDE LINK).
3. Submit Required Documents: Prepare all required documents as specified by the DBPR, including your program diploma and any additional documents they may request.
4. Pay Fees: As outlined on their website, submit payment for examination fees directly to the DBPR. (PLEASE PROVIDE LINK).

Florida State Licensing Agency

For information and to initiate your application process for a barber license in Florida, please visit the website of Florida DBPR at Florida DBPR Barber License Information. (PLEASE PROVIDE LINK).