How long is cosmetology school and when can I start?

Our cosmetology program is 1200 hours, typically completed in 9 months. We operate on a 9-month rotating “wheel,” with new entry points available year-round. Please contact our admissions team in order to map out the upcoming start dates.

Do I need prior experience?

No. Beginners are welcome. You just need a high school diploma or GED by the time you graduate.

Do I have to take a state exam?

Yes. At the 1,000 hour mark, Hyphen will generate an invitation to test for the State exam.

Is financial aid available?

We are in the process of getting accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA) and we are scheduled to be accredited in March 2026. In the meantime, we offer interest-free payment plans so you only need to pay $600 at enrollment and the balance can be paid monthly while you are in school. You will not have any student debt when you graduate.

What books are required for the class?

We use the latest Milady textbooks. Please bring the books (or e-books) to your first day of class: Milady Standard Cosmetology Textbook, 14th Edition and Foundations Workbook Bundle, ISBN: 978-0-357-87149-2. Spanish speakers will use the following textbooks: Milady Standard Cosmetology Spanish Textbook, 13th Edition. ISBN: 978-1-285-77262-2; Milady Standard Cosmetology Spanish Exam Review, 2016 Edition. ISBN: 978-1-285-76958-5; Milady Standard Cosmetology Spanish Study Guide, 13th Edition. ISBN: 978-1-285-76964-6.

Cosmetology Students at Hyphen Beauty School in Orlando

How to Become a Licensed Cosmetologist in Orlando, Florida

If you’ve always dreamed of turning your creativity into a career — helping people look and feel their best — becoming a licensed cosmetologist could be your perfect next step. Florida offers one of the most active beauty markets in the country, with hundreds of salons, spas, and resort opportunities, especially in tourist-areas like Orlando where we have constant demand.

Whether you’re currently working in retail or hospitality and looking for a fresh start, this guide will walk you through exactly how to become a licensed cosmetologist in Florida, step by step.

1. Understand What a Licensed Cosmetologist Does

A licensed cosmetologist in Florida is trained to perform a range of services — from hair cutting, coloring, and styling to basic skincare, manicures, pedicures, and makeup application. The Florida Board of Cosmetology requires formal training through an approved school before you can serve clients professionally.

Cosmetologists are more than stylists — they’re beauty professionals who combine artistry with science, hygiene, and client care.

2. Enroll in a Florida-Approved Cosmetology Program

The first step is to enroll in a Florida state-approved cosmetology school, this school must be licensed by the Florida Commission for Independent Education (CIE).

Florida requires 1,200 hours of training for a full cosmetology license. The CIE has a standardized 1,200 hour curriculum so there isn't going to be much deviation of topics between schools in the state.

Since Hyphen has its own customized eLearning platform, all lectures are done at the comfort of your home. This means that you graduate faster with more hands-on practice time while in school.

3. Complete Your Required Training Hours

Most students complete the required 1,200 hours in 10–12 months, requiring students to meet 5-days per week.

Hyphen offers a 3-day per week schedule and students graduate within 9 months. Many of Hyphen's students continue working while attending school since we only meet 3-days per week.

4. Apply for the Florida Cosmetology Exam

Once your training hours are complete, your school will submit an application to DBPR in order to get an invitation to take the Florida Cosmetology Licensing Exam, administered by Pearson VUE.

The exam has two parts:

Written Theory Test: Covers topics like hair care, skin and nail anatomy, infection control, and Florida cosmetology laws.

Clinical Skills Demonstration: Tests your ability to perform specific salon services safely and professionally.

5. Submit Your Application to the Florida Board of Cosmetology

After you pass the exam, you’ll submit your application and exam scores to the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR). Along with your application, you’ll need:

Proof of completing 1,200 training hours

A passing exam score

HIV/AIDS course certificate (4-hour training required)

Application fee (typically around $85)

Once approved, DBPR will issue your Florida Cosmetology License — congratulations!

6. Start Your New Career in Beauty

As a newly licensed cosmetologist, you’ll have a world of opportunities — from working in upscale salons and spas to freelance styling, media makeup, or even opening your own business.

Many graduates in Orlando choose to start as stylists or assistants in popular local salons, building clientele through social media and word-of-mouth. Others work in resort spas near Disney, Lake Buena Vista, and Winter Park, where there’s constant demand for skilled beauty professionals.

7. Continue Your Education

The beauty industry evolves quickly. Staying current with new techniques, color trends, and product innovations is key to long-term success.

Hyphen Beauty School encourages graduates to keep learning through workshops, advanced certifications, and even instructor training if you want to teach future beauty professionals one day.

8. Why Choose Hyphen Beauty School

At Hyphen Beauty School, we’re committed to helping students transform their passion into a career. Located conveniently in Winter Park — minutes from downtown Orlando, our cosmetology program offers:

Small, hands-on classes led by licensed professionals

Affordable tuition and flexible payment options

Bilingual instruction (English/Spanish)

Hybrid learning available

Real salon experience serving clients

Whether you’re looking to switch careers, build your confidence, or launch your own beauty business, Hyphen provides the tools, training, and support to help you get there.

Cosmetology Students working together as a class

Ready to Begin Your Beauty Journey?

Your dream career starts with one step — enrolling in cosmetology school. Take control of your future and join the growing number of women in Orlando who’ve transformed their lives through beauty education.

Schedule a campus tour today or contact Hyphen Beauty School to learn more about upcoming class start dates.

Schedule a Tour

And picture your next career evolution

What Do You Learn in Cosmetology School

An outline of the typical cosmetology program curriculum, highlighting key subjects and skills gained. For example, topics like hair cutting/styling, hair coloring chemistry, basic skin care, makeup, nail care, anatomy, and even salon business basics.

Career Opportunities After Cosmetology School

An exploration of various career paths a cosmetology license opens up. We’ll discuss working as a hairstylist or colorist in salons, becoming a makeup artist or nail technician, jobs in spas or resorts, freelance and mobile services, opportunities in entertainment (photo shoots, film, theater), and even salon ownership

How to Choose the Right Cosmetology School

Guidance on evaluating and selecting a beauty school. Key factors include accreditation and state approval, program length and schedule flexibility, tuition cost and financial aid options, school reputation and reviews, job placement support, and location convenience.

What is the Cost of Financing Cosmetology School

When choosing a cosmetology school, cost is one of the biggest factors to consider. Many students hear about “financial aid” and assume it means beauty school will be completely covered — but that’s rarely the case.

Online Cosmetology School Offerings in Orlando

What are the options for going to cosmetology school online? If you’ve always dreamed of becoming a licensed cosmetologist but worry that school will take too much time away from work or family, you’re not alone.

Cosmetology School vs. Traditional College: Which Path is Right for You?

If you’ve ever wondered whether to go to college or beauty school, you’re not alone. Many students — especially women in their 20s and 30s — want a meaningful career but aren’t sure if a four-year degree is worth the time and debt.

Cosmetology vs. Esthetician: Choosing the Right Beauty Career

An in-depth comparison of the cosmetologist and esthetician roles, training scope, and career opportunities. This will clarify the differences (e.g. cosmetology covers hair, nails, basic skin; esthetics focuses on advanced skin care).

Ready to Take the Leap?

If you’re looking for a cosmetology school near you in Orlando, Hyphen Beauty School offers the perfect balance of flexibility, quality training, and career support. Don’t let distance, cost, or scheduling hold you back from pursuing your passion.

With small classes, bilingual instruction, and a curriculum designed to prepare you for the Florida state exam, you’ll graduate confident, licensed, and career-ready in just nine months.

Book your tour today and see why Hyphen is one of Orlando’s top choices for cosmetology training. Call our admissions staff at (321) 323-3216 so they can arrange a tour and block off 5-minutes with your future instructor.