Final answer:
The requirement for serving on the Florida Board of Cosmetology is practicing barbering or cosmetology in the state for a minimum period of 5 years.
Step-by-step explanation:
To serve on the Florida Board of Cosmetology, the requirements stipulated by state regulations indicate that a licensed professional must have been a resident of, and practiced barbering or cosmetology in Florida for a minimum of five years. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is c) 5 years. This ensures that board members possess sufficient local experience and are well-acquainted with the state's health and safety standards, as well as administrative practices relevant to the profession. Being a member of such a board carries the responsibility of overseeing licensure, establishing rules for safe practice, and ensuring professionals meet ongoing education requirements.