How to Open a Private School in Florida
This guide is for informational purposes only. SuretyBonds.com does not regulate or manage private school licensing in Florida. Contact the Florida Office of Independent Education and Parental Control for the latest official requirements.
How to Open a Private School in Florida
The Florida Department of Education (DOE) regulates private school registration. To open a school, you must first apply with the DOE.
Continue reading for step-by-step application instructions, renewal information and a cost breakdown.
What Types of Schools Need to Register?
Any school that is not publicly-funded in Florida needs to register with the DOE. This includes home education programs, personalized education programs, trade or technical schools below college level, and private K-12 schools.
How Do I Register a Private School in Florida?
To register your private school in Florida, follow these six steps.
Step 1: Establish the school
First, decide how and where you will set up the school.
- Determine the structure and location of your school.
- Register the business with the Secretary of State, Division of Corporations
- Find a permanent building where you will open the school
Ensure that this building meets all local zoning, public safety and inspection regulations.
Step 2: Purchase your surety bond
New private schools in Florida need a $1,000—$500,000 surety bond before they can participate in scholarship programs.
The coverage amount is based on the scholarship funds your school holds for any quarter. New schools will need to estimate the amount needed.
Alternatively, you can submit a letter of credit. However, a surety bond is often the most affordable option, requiring no collateral.
Step 3: Get a tax certificate
For-profit schools are required to pay occupational business taxes and obtain a Business Tax Certificate.
Nonprofit schools may qualify for tax exemption under § 501(c)(3) of IRS code. However, you might still be required to obtain a Business Tax Certificate at no charge. Verify this with your municipality.
Step 4: Set up a DOE account
You’ll complete your application online through the Department of Education website. To create an account as a private school, request a school code and password. You will then receive your four-digit code and password via email.
Step 5: Submit the private school survey
After receiving your DOE access information, sign in and complete the private school survey. You must complete this survey annually to stay in the Directory of Private Schools.
Step 6: Register with the DOE
Finally, mail a signed and notarized copy of the private school survey to the DOE at the following address:
Office of Independent Education and Parental Choice
Turlington Building - Florida Department of Education
325 W. Gaines Street, Room 1044
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0400
Once this survey is received, you will officially be listed in the Florida Directory of Private Schools.
Note: Registration does not imply that your school is approved, recognized or accredited by the state
How to Renew Your Private School Registration
To renew your registration, simply submit the annual private school survey. This will keep your school on the list of registered private schools in Florida.
How Much Does It Cost to Register a Private School?
The surety bond premium is the only cost associated with registering a private school in Virginia. You can expect to pay 1–10% of your required coverage amount starting at $50.
How Long Does it Take to Register a Private School?
The entire process to register can take a few weeks or more. It will take 1-2 days to receive your school code and password from the Department of Education.
Then, it will take a few days for the DOE to receive your hard copy and several business days to a few weeks for them to register your school.
Last Updated: August 7, 2025
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