How to Transfer Your Cosmetologist License from Florida to Georgia

Side-by-side comparison of requirements, costs, and reciprocity. Updated 2026.

Quick Comparison

Requirement	Florida (FL)	Georgia (GA)
Total Cost	$95.25	$139
Training Hours	1,200 hrs	1 hrs
Exam Required	Yes	Yes
Renewal Period	2 years (biennial)	2 years
Reciprocity	By endorsement	By endorsement

Can You Transfer Your Cosmetologist License?

Georgia has limited or no reciprocity

Georgia offers licensure by endorsement for out-of-state cosmetologists. However, Georgia does NOT reciprocate with California, Florida, Hawaii, or New York. Applicants from those states may need to pass additional exams.

Additional requirements: Applicants from CA, FL, HI, and NY are excluded from standard reciprocity and may need to take exams. Must provide proof of current, active license in good standing.

What You'll Need to Do in Georgia

These are the standard licensing steps in Georgia. As a licensed cosmetologist from Florida, you may already satisfy some of these requirements.

1
Be at least 17 years old with a high school diploma, GED, or higher education degree
2
Complete 1,500 hours of training at a licensed cosmetology school (minimum 9 months) or 3,000 hours of apprenticeship (minimum 18 months)
3
Submit initial license application and $30 fee to the Georgia Secretary of State
4
Schedule and pass the theory examination ($45) through PSI
5
Schedule and pass the practical examination ($64) through PSI
6
Application processing takes approximately 15 business days
7
Receive your Master Cosmetologist license

Cost Comparison

Florida Fees

Application Fee$63.75
Exam Fee$31.50
License Fee$Included in application fee
Education Cost$6,000–$20,000
Total$95.25

Georgia Fees

Application Fee$30
Exam Fee$109
License Fee$Included in $30 application fee
Education Cost$8,000–$22,000
Total$139

Estimated Timeline

Timeline varies based on your credentials, reciprocity eligibility, and Georgia's current processing times. Contact the state licensing board for current estimates.

Explore More

Florida Cosmetologist License

Full requirements, fees, and steps

Georgia Cosmetologist License

Full requirements, fees, and steps

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my cosmetologist license from Florida to Georgia?▾

Georgia may accept out-of-state cosmetologist credentials. Georgia offers licensure by endorsement for out-of-state cosmetologists. However, Georgia does NOT reciprocate with California, Florida, Hawaii, or New York. Applicants from those states may need to pass additional exams.

How much does it cost to transfer a cosmetologist license to Georgia?▾

Government fees for a cosmetologist license in Georgia total approximately $139. Additional costs may include exam fees, background checks, and education requirements.

How long does it take to transfer a cosmetologist license from Florida to Georgia?▾

Processing times vary by state. Contact the Georgia licensing board for current timelines.

Do I need to retake the cosmetologist exam when moving to Georgia?▾

Georgia requires a cosmetologist exam. Out-of-state licensees may or may not be exempt — check with the Georgia licensing board for current reciprocity policies.

Moving to another state? Use our Transfer Tool to see what you need →

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Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only. Licensing requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements, fees, and reciprocity policies directly with the Florida and Georgia licensing boards before making decisions. LicenseMap is not a government agency and does not guarantee the accuracy of this information.

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