How to Get a Braiding License in Florida
As braiding has been popular over many years, many cosmetologists have begun adding it to their services. Until recently, there was a specific hair braiding license in Florida, but that changed earlier in 2020 following the Occupational Freedom and Opportunity Act. The act was introduced to help people access jobs more easily, and to remove some barriers to accessing work in areas such as braiding and hair wrapping. But what does this mean for people who are looking to join a hair braiding academy or start working as a braider? We've unpacked the new regulations for you to help make things clearer.
Do you need a braiding license in Florida? Those wondering how to get a braiding license in Florida should know that there is not currently a specific license just for braiding in the state. Before July 1st, 2020, braiders were required to be licensed by the state. Since these new regulations came into effect, the profession is no longer regulated or licensed. That being said, many braiders choose to join a braiding course to develop their skills and learn more about practicing their craft safely. Until recently, following formal training was a requirement, but now that it is optional, there is a good opportunity to allow your skills and business to stand out from the crowd by going above and beyond with formal training. You may also find that some salons will ask to see proof of training when you apply to work there, so getting certified is always a good idea where possible. The Hollywood Institute's braiding workshop, for example, counts towards your CEU, which means that if you are a licensed esthetician completing a course could also be beneficial too. Why should you take hair-braiding classes in Florida? There are several online and in-person training options. Most cover different elements of theory as well as practical advice too. After receiving instruction on technique and best practices, you would learn how to take good care of your clients and keep them safe. Cleanliness is also very important within the industry, so you will also receive training on operating with your and your clients' safety in mind. Learning best practices in a formal setting can be really useful in the long term. Beginning your career after formal training can give you the confidence that you will be following best practices right from the get go. You may also find it easier to get a license out of state if you decide to live elsewhere in the future. Training requirements do vary depending on each state, but you will have a good base of knowledge to work from if you need to undertake further training elsewhere in the future. Where can braiders work in Florida? Braiding is a versatile job, particularly with the new, relaxed regulations that have come into effect in 2020. Hair braiding now can happen legally inside or outside of a formal, licensed salon. That means you can work in a salon or at home, giving you great flexibility to fit work around other commitments. Working in salons can be a really effective way to gain experience and develop a client base and having training to your name can help you to secure a salon job. If you're looking for more flexibility or have already got a big circle of potential clients among your friends or family, then working freelance could be a good idea. Again, being able to say you're formally trained can give you extra credibility when you're starting out. Working for yourself means you have more flexibility in terms of hours and you can take time away from work as you need to. This being said, being your own boss means you need to keep track of lots of different things including your accounts and insurance, on top of making sure clients keep coming back. Whilst formal training is no longer required by the State, it's a good idea to join a course to gain practical skills and learn about client safety. Braiding is a versatile and sought-after skill, and the job opportunities within the sector allow for good flexibility and work-life balance.