Timely renewal of your cosmetology license is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, it enables you to comply with state laws, which require cosmetologists to renew their license every 2 years. Additionally, it helps you dodge a sea of issues that can undermine your profession when you operate with an expired license, from damaged reputation and loss of customers to legal fines and penalties.
With that in mind, here’s a step-by-step guide to renewing your Florida cosmetology license in time.
Step 1: Check Your License’s Expiry Date
The first thing you want to do is check the expiry date on your cosmetology license. If you’ve misplaced the physical document, log into your Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) account; you’ll find it there.
Once you know when your next renewal will be, consider setting up reminders to avoid missing the deadline. You should ensure you have enough time to meet all essential requirements, so set additional reminders that will help you start the process a few months before your license expires.
Step 2: Complete CE
You must complete 10 hours of CE before submitting your application. This is non-negotiable, and you can’t fake it since the DBPR will ask for proof. Ensure you take your courses with a board-approved service provider. Also, consider taking an online CE course for uncapped convenience and flexibility. That’s in consideration that in-person classes can be a hassle, especially if you are a busy individual.
When you purchase a premium Florida cosmetology license renewal course from an excellent provider like RocketCert, you can expect a range of benefits such as expertly written content that is also fully narrated so it’s easier to understand. Plus, you avoid the unnecessary expenses associated with in-person classes since you have to go to a specific location.
Step 3: Gather Required Documentation
While applying for license renewal, you may need a certificate that proves you’ve completed continuing education. It’s not always a requirement, but the DBPR may decide to vet compliance, which requires this certificate.
Once you’ve completed your continuing education, the provider will issue it soon. Depending on the company’s policies, it may take anywhere from a couple of hours to a few days. If it takes too long, please report the issue to customer support.
Step 4: Request Renewal
You can apply for license renewal once you’ve received your CE certificate. If possible, do it through the DBPR’s online portal; this is the fastest and most convenient option. The system will prepopulate your form, making the process extremely easy.
Please check the information on your application carefully before submitting it. Also, note that your CE provider will report your progress to the DBPR, thus you don’t need to do this yourself. Still, you will have to provide a valid certificate in case of a random audit, so keep yours close.
Step 5: Wait for Your License
After submitting your application, give the DBPR at least 7 days to assess it and issue a new certificate. You can still serve clients while waiting for your license to be mailed, provided your application has been processed and your DBPR account shows an updated expiration date.
Once your renewed licence arrives, you should check every detail attentively to ensure nothing is missing or incorrect. If you notice any discrepancies, notify the DBPR immediately.
Complete CE with an Accredited Provider Today
You have to complete CE with a board-approved service provider for your cosmetology license to be renewed by the DBPR. Luckily, you have uncapped access to the best accredited CE provider in Florida: RocketCert.
With RocketCert, you’ll complete the required 10 hours of cosmetology CE and renew your license without hassle. The best thing about this company’s CE program is it’s self-paced and available online 24/7. Take your first step to completing continuing education and renewing your cosmetology license by signing up with RocketCert and purchasing your course today!