Certifications & licenses in Florida
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 28 professional credentials in FL. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about Florida
Licensing landscape in Florida
Effective July 1, 2024, cosmetologists licensed for 10+ years with no disciplinary action are exempt from the 10-hour continuing education requirement.
Florida Board of Cosmetology
As of the 2024 legislative session (HB 975), all applicants for licensure by endorsement must complete an electronic fingerprint-based background check.
Florida Board of Massage Therapy
Beginning July 1, 2025, state licensure for 12 specialty contractor categories, including marine work and structural masonry, will become voluntary.
Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board
As of August 1, 2018, all new applicants for paramedic licensure must pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam.
Florida Department of Health
Metro concentration of certified careers
Cost-of-living adjusted earnings in Florida
A $60,000 salary in Florida has the purchasing power of roughly $57,800 in a state with an average cost of living.
Regional comparison: Florida vs. neighbors
| State | Median annual wage | vs FL |
|---|---|---|
| FL | $37,510 | — |
| GA | $37,680 | +0% vs FL |
| AL | $34,140 | -9% vs FL |
| State | Required training hours | vs FL |
|---|---|---|
| FL | 500 hours | — |
| GA | 500 hours | 0 hours |
| AL | 650 hours | +150 hours |
Healthcare in Florida
14 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Required | $37,510 |
| Dental Assistant | No | $47,620 |
| EMT | Required | $39,870 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $61,770 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $43,680 |
| Medical Coder | No | $45,760 |
| Paramedic | Required | $60,140 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $43,590 |
| Phlebotomist | No | $40,230 |
| Radiology Technologist | Required | $76,750 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Required | $84,190 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $81,160 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $62,440 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $91,980 |
Skilled Trades in Florida
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $50,640 |
| Electrician | No | $57,250 |
| HVAC Technician | Required | $56,670 |
| Plumber | Required | $52,910 |
| Welder | No | $50,640 |
Personal Care & Wellness in Florida
4 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Trainer | No | $38,800 |
| Barber | Required | $49,410 |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $29,530 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $49,680 |
Professional & Business in Florida
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $79,250 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $61,000 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $59,790 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $49,310 |