Hair Braiding Schools in Florida

Browse our directory of hair braiding schools in Florida, or skip ahead to learn about the state's hair braiding licensing requirements and job outlook.

How to Become a Hair Braider in Florida

Are you looking for a beauty career that's diverse, growing, and in high demand? Maybe it's time to look into a hair braiding career. Hair braiding is one of the oldest hair styling techniques in the world, but it's only recently become well-known and popular throughout the United States. By attending the right type of training course and getting your license, you can become part of this cosmetology specialty.

State License Requirements

There are two types of hair braiding courses you can attend. The first is the course that's required by the state of Florida. This 16-hour course lasts just two days. It doesn't actually teach hair braiding. Instead, you complete five hours of training in AIDS, HIV, and communicable disease. There are five hours on sterilization and sanitation. You must get four hours of study in scalp disorders and diseases. The shortest portion of the hair braiding in Florida course is the two-hour portion that covers Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation Laws.

Education Details

If you don't know how to braid hair already, you may need to attend another course to get a solid background in this field. The skill has been handed down for generations, so those who already know these techniques may not need to pursue additional training. You can learn how to completely transform hair and make it look smooth, sleek, and sophisticated! Common styles and techniques taught in braiding courses include Senegalese twists, cornrows, twists, and locks.

License Renewal

Florida Hair Braiding Careers

With a varied set of braiding skills and the willingness to work hard for customers, you can enjoy a good job outlook in Florida! O*Net reports that job openings for hair stylists, including hair dressers, are expected to increase by 12% between 2010 and 2020. Each year, this works out to more than 1,200 new jobs (O*Net, 2010). The need for hair braiders varies from area to area. It may be worth your time to do some market research and figure out where braiders are most needed before settling down. Per O*Net, the average salary for a Florida hair stylist is $22,700 per year. Again, salaries may differ quite a bit for hair braiders, especially since many are self-employed. A lot depends on the rates you set and how many repeat customers you can get. The Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation is responsible for the licensure of hair braiders. After you complete the required 16-hour course, you can pursue licensure.

Becoming a hair braider allows you to work in lots of different places and with lots of unique people! Since Florida licenses its hair braiders, you may be able to work in a spa or salon. This may allow you to work set hours and benefit from the salon's existing client base. If you decide to forge your own path as a business owner, you may work from a designated spot in your home or open your own hair braiding shop. This might give you lots of freedom. You can create your own hours, bring in your own clients, and run your business as you see fit. Whether you decide to start your own business or work for someone else, you might have to work weekends, evenings, and long shifts. Hair braiding can take a long time, so in an eight-hour day, you may only see two or three clients. This means that you need to be quick with your fingers, able to stay on your feet for a long time, and good at keeping people comfortable for long periods of time. Of course, part of your career is continuing education! As hair braiding grows across America, new styles are created all the time. Tadias reports that an African festival in August of 2014 featured braiding styles from three different parts of Africa. As this movement grows, prepare to see your client base expand! Take your pass

Contact the Florida State Board of Cosmetology

Floridians enjoy the benefits of various hair stylists across the state who possess a good measure of expertise. Hair professionals pride themselves on being up-to-date with the new coiffures, including the varied styles of hair braiding. They, along with others, consult these groups.

Professional Beauty Association
Florida Hair Braiding Registration Courses