How to Transfer Your Cosmetologist License from New York to Florida

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

Quick Comparison

Requirement	New York (NY)	Florida (FL)
Total Cost	$70	$95.25
Training Hours	1,000 hrs	1,200 hrs
Exam Required	Yes	Yes
Renewal Period	4 years	2 years (biennial)
Reciprocity	By endorsement	By endorsement

Can You Transfer Your Cosmetologist License?

Florida has limited or no reciprocity

Florida offers licensure by endorsement to applicants holding an active cosmetology license in another state with requirements comparable to or more stringent than Florida's 1,200 educational hours and passage of a written examination. Endorsement applicants must be at least 16 years old.

Additional requirements: Must complete a board-approved 4-hour Initial HIV/AIDS course. Apprenticeship licenses and education are not eligible for endorsement. Out-of-state or out-of-country cosmetologists unable to endorse may be eligible for examination if they have held their license for at least one year.

What You'll Need to Do in Florida

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

1
Complete 1,200 hours of instruction at a Florida-licensed cosmetology school
2
Complete the 4-hour initial HIV/AIDS course (within 2 years prior to application)
3
Submit application and $63.75 fee to DBPR
4
Schedule and pass the theory examination ($15.75) through Pearson VUE
5
Schedule and pass the clinical examination ($15.75) through Pearson VUE
6
Both exams must be passed within a 2-year period from the first attempt
7
Receive your cosmetology license from DBPR

Cost Comparison

New York Fees

Application Fee$40
Exam Fee$30
License Fee$Included in application fee
Education Cost$5,000–$20,000
Total$70

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

Estimated Timeline

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

Explore More

New York Cosmetologist License

Full requirements, fees, and steps

Florida Cosmetologist License

Full requirements, fees, and steps

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my cosmetologist license from New York to Florida?▾

Florida may accept out-of-state cosmetologist credentials. Florida offers licensure by endorsement to applicants holding an active cosmetology license in another state with requirements comparable to or more stringent than Florida's 1,200 educational hours and passage of a written examination. Endorsement applicants must be at least 16 years old.

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

Government fees for a cosmetologist license in Florida total approximately $95.25. Additional costs may include exam fees, background checks, and education requirements.

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

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

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

Florida requires a cosmetologist exam. Out-of-state licensees may or may not be exempt — check with the Florida 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 New York and Florida licensing boards before making decisions. GetLicenseMap is not a government agency and does not guarantee the accuracy of this information.

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