How Long Does it Take to Become a Licensed Barber in Florida

Being a Barber for over 10 years now a common question I get is “how long does it take to become a licensed barber in Florida?

Figuring Out if You Want to Become a Licensed Barber

First, you need to know if this is something you really want to do. Be prepared to stand for 10-12 hours a day. On the other hand, depending on the barbershop you might have more freedom to make your own schedule and have more time for a personal life. After you look into the pros and cons of a career in barbering, you must decide on a barbering school.
For the purpose of this blog, we are going to use the state of Florida as our benchmark for all needed requirements. Please keep in mind that the state of Florida is one of the few that allows you to obtain a barber and cosmetology license at once.

Requirements to Become a Licensed Barber in Florida

To become a licensed barber in the state of Florida a minimum of 1,200 hours must be completed at a Florida barbering school.
After you have completed your 1,200 hours you must also submit a barber examination application and applicable fees to the department.
Once the application is approved, you must schedule a date and time for your barber examination with Pearson Vue. 
Through PearsonVue you will be able to take your exam online in a timely fashion. Appointments may be made up to one calendar day prior to the day you wish to test, depending on availability. After you take your exam a license will be issued and mailed to you upon successful completion of the barber examination.

For more information on how to become a licensed barber in Florida, visit the Florida Barber’s Board. They regulate barbers, restricted barbers, barber assistants, and barbershops.

FAQ’s (Short Version to -my Florida license- website’s FAQ’s &Answers)

“– Can I work if I passed my first licensing exam but haven’t received my license?”
Yes. If a Florida barbering student passes his or her first licensing exam, the student may work in a licensed barbershop:
Under the supervision of a licensed barber who is physically present when the student is working; and so long as the student posts his or her exam results and a recent photo at their station.

“– Can I still work if I fail the examination?”

If a Florida barbering student fails the exam, he or she may NOT work until:

He or she applies to the Department for reexamination;

He or she provides the shop or salon owner with a copy of his or her re-exam application and the exam authorization letter from the testing vendor; 

and he or she posts exam results and a recent photo at their station.