Cosmetology Requirements by State
To become a licensed or certified cosmetologist you will need to get certified. The type of education you need to receive may differ depending on your current state of residence and your interest. In addition to training requirements, you also need to be aware of state specific guidelines on continuing education units (CEUs), license renewal periods and fees, liability insurance, and license reciprocity or transfers.
Our liability insurance policy was designed with cosmetologists in mind to make sure we meet the liability recommendations in every state. Get insured in under 5 minutes for as low as $0.49/day.
Professional Policy
Select your State Below or
To become a licensed or certified cosmetologist you will need to get certified. The type of education you need to receive may differ depending on your current state of residence and your interest. In addition to training requirements, you also need to be aware of state specific guidelines on continuing education units (CEUs), license renewal periods and fees, liability insurance, and license reciprocity or transfers.
Our liability insurance policy was designed with cosmetologists in mind to make sure we meet the liability recommendations in every state. Get insured in under 5 minutes for as low as $0.49/day.
Professional Policy
To become a licensed or certified cosmetologist you will need to get certified. The type of education you need to receive may differ depending on your current state of residence and your interest. In addition to training requirements, you also need to be aware of state specific guidelines on continuing education units (CEUs), license renewal periods and fees, liability insurance, and license reciprocity or transfers.
Our liability insurance policy was designed with cosmetologists in mind to make sure we meet the liability recommendations in every state. Get insured in under 5 minutes for as low as $0.49/day.
Professional Policy
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old; 10th grade education
Training
1500 school hours; 3000 apprentice hours in 3 years; Written and Practical Exams
Instructor License
12th grade education; 1 year in practice; 650 hour teacher training course and exams
Renewal
Renewed every 2 odd number years during your birth month; $80
Reciprocity
Request certification to be sent from current state; Contact board for paperwork and exams; $100 fee
CEUs
8 CEUs for renewal; 16 CEUS for instructor renewal
State Board
Alabama Board of Cosmetology
(800) 815-7453
cosmetology@aboc.alabama.gov
Learn more about Alabama state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Alabama with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old; High school education or equivalent
Training
1650 school hours / 2000 apprentice hours; Written and practical exams
Instructor License
Hold a valid license, 1 year in practice + 3 years of practice OR 1 year of practice in another state and 600 hours of student instructor training, Pass written and practical exams
Renewal
Renew by Aug. 31 of odd-numbered years; $160 fee / $240 instructor fee
Reciprocity
Hold a current license in a state with equivalent requirements; 1 year of full-time employment + 1500 school hours, OR 2 years of full-time employment
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Alaska Board of Barbers & Hairdressers
(907) 465-2547
license@alaska.gov
Learn more about Alaska state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Alaska with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 23 years old; 2 years of high school education or equivalent
Training
1600 school hours; Written and practical exams
Instructor License
1 year of licensure + 650 hours of training
Renewal
Renew every year by the practitioner’s birthday; $30 Fee
Reciprocity
At least 1 year of practice in current state of licensure within the five years prior to application
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Arizona State Board of Cosmetology
(480) 784-4539
azboard@azboc.gov
Learn more about Arizona state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Arizona with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 16 years old; 10th grade education or equivalent
Training
1500 school hours; Written and practical exams
Instructor License
600 hours in cosmetology teaching courses + exam
Renewal
Renew every 2 years by the practitioner’s birthday; $80 Fee
Reciprocity
Hold a valid cosmetology license; Have certification of licensure and training; Pass a state law exam
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Arkansas State Board of Cosmetology
(501) 682-2168
Cosmo@arkansas.gov
Learn more about Arkansas state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Arkansas with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 16 years old; 10th grade education or equivalent
Training
1600 school hours / 3200 apprentice hours; Written and practical exams
Instructor License
Valid License, certification through post-secondary education; $50
Renewal
Renew every 2 years, in odd-numbered years, by the original licensing date; $50 fee
Reciprocity
Must hold a cosmetology license in good standing in home state; Must be licensed 3 out of the last 5 years
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology
(800) 952-5210
barbercosmo@dca.ca.gov
Learn more about California state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
California with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 16 years old
Training
1800 school hours; Written and practical exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license +2 years of experience
Renewal
Renew every 2 years, in odd- or even-numbers years, by April 30; $32 fee / $47 reinstate fee
Reciprocity
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement; Hold a valid license from home state with equivalent requirements
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Colorado Office of Barber and Cosmetology
(303) 894-7427
Barber-Cosmetology@dora.state.co.us
Learn more about Colorado state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Colorado with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 16 years old; 8th grade education
Training
1500 school hours; Written exam
Instructor License
Valid License: cosmetology instructor examination; $20
Renewal
Renew every 2 years by the last day of your birth month; $100 fee
Reciprocity
Hold a valid license from a state with equivalent requirements; Pass a written exam
CEUs
10 CEUs for renewal
State Board
Connecticut Department of Public Health – Board for Barbers, Hairdressers & Cosmeticians
(860) 509-7603
dph.hairdresserteam@ct.gov
Learn more about Connecticut state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Connecticut with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
10th grade education or equivalent
Training
1500 school hours / 3000 apprentice hours; Theory and practical exams
Instructor License
500 training hours + cosmetology license, OR 250 training hours + 2 years of experience
Renewal
Renew by Oct. 31 of even-numbered years
Reciprocity
Method 1: Must be licensed in a state with equal requirements; Method 2: Submit a notarized statement from an employer certifying that you have been working for at least 5 years
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Delaware Board of Cosmetology and Barbering
(302) 744-4500
customerservice.dpr@state.de.us
Learn more about Delaware state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Deleware with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 16 years old; High school diploma
Training
1200 school hours; Exams
Instructor License
Attend a cosmetology school that offers a certification program
Renewal
Renew by October 31; Group 1 licenses: even-numbered years / Group 2 licenses: odd-numbered years; $55 fee
Reciprocity
Hold an active license in another state with equal requirements; Otherwise, must complete additional training hours to qualify for endorsement
CEUs
16 board-approved CEUs for renewal
State Board
Florida Division of Professions, Board of Cosmetology
(850) 487-1395
http://www.myfloridalicense.com/contactus/
Learn more about Florida state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Florida with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old
Training
1500 school hours / 3000 apprentice hours in 18 months; Written and practical exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 750 training hours + exams
Renewal
Renew biennially by March 31 of even-numbered years; $50 Fee
Reciprocity
Must be licensed in a state or country that has similar requirements and grants reciprocity to Georgia licensees
CEUs
5 CEUS every 2 years for renewal
State Board
Georgia State Board of Cosmetology
(478) 207-2440
http://sos.ga.gov/cgi-bin/email.asp
Learn more about Georgia state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Georgia with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 16 years old; High school education or equivalent
Training
1800 school hours / 3600 apprentice hours; Written and practical exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 600 teacher training hours
Renewal
Renew by March 31 of odd-numbered years; $100 fee
Reciprocity
Completed similar or equivalent education requirements; May be required to take written and practical exams
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Hawaii Board of Barbering and Cosmetology
(808) 586-3000
barber_cosm@dcca.hawaii.gov
Learn more about Hawaii state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Hawaii with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 16.5 years old; 10th grade education or equivalent
Training
2000 school hours / 4000 apprentice hours; Exams
Instructor License
Cosm. license + 2 years experience + 1000 student teaching hours, or cosm. license + 2-5 years experience + 500 student teaching hours
Renewal
Must be licensed 3 of the last 5 years to qualify for endorsement; Hold an active license in a state with similar requirements, or complete additional hours to meet minimum
Reciprocity
No reciprocity program; Must have had an active license for 3 of the last 5 years; Proof of having taken practical and written exam; Meet Idaho training requirements; Qualify for endorsement
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Idaho Bureau of Occupational Licenses, Board of Cosmetology
(208) 334-3233
bol@ibol.idaho.gov
Learn more about Idaho state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Idaho with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 18 years old; High school diploma or equivalent
Training
1500 school hours; Exam
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 1000 training hours or 2 years of experience + 500 training hours
Renewal
Renew by Sept. 30 of each odd-numbered year; $25 fee per year
Reciprocity
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement; Provide certification of licensure from current state board
CEUs
Cosmetologists: 14 CEUs every 2 years; Instructors: 24 CEUs every 2 years
State Board
Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation – Cosmetology
(800) 560-6420
http://www.idfpr.com/profs/Email/prfGrp01.asp
Learn more about Illinois state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Illinois with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 18 years old; 10th grade education or equivalent
Training
1500 school hours; Written and practical exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 1000 training hours
Renewal
Renew every 4 years by August 1; $40 fee
Reciprocity
Must be licensed in a state that requires 1500 training hours; At least 70% passing on written and practical exams
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Indiana Professional Licensing Agency – State Board of Cosmetology & Barber Examiners
(317) 234-3031
pla12@pla.in.gov
Learn more about Indiana state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Indiana with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 16 years old; 10th grade education or equivalent
Training
2100 school hours; Exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 1000 teacher training hours OR 2 years of experience in last 6 years
Renewal
Renew by Dec. 31 of even-numbered years; $60 fee
Reciprocity
Transfer through endorsement; Must be licensed in a state with similar or equivalent requirements for 12 of the last 24 months
CEUs
8 CEUS every 2 years
State Board
Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts & Sciences
(515) 281-4416
rosemary.bonanno@idph.iowa.gov
Learn more about Iowa state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Iowa with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old; High school diploma or equivalent
Training
1500 school hours; Exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 300 training hours + 450 teaching hours
Renewal
Renew every 2 years in the month of original licensure; $60 fee
Reciprocity
Must be licensed in a state with similar or equivalent requirements; Must pass an open book exam
CEUs
Not required
State Board
Kansas Board of Cosmetology
(785) 296-3155
kboc@kboc.ks.gov
Learn more about Kansas state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Kansas with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old; 12th grade education
Training
1800 school hours; Apprentice examination, written & practical
Instructor License
Cosmetology license for 1 year + 1000 training hours + instructor exams
Renewal
Renew every year between July 1-31; $20 fee
Reciprocity
Must have a certification of license from state board that issued the license; May be required to take exams
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Kentucky Board Cosmetology
(502) 564-4262
julie.campbell@ky.gov
Learn more about Kentucky state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Kentucky with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 16 years old; 10th grade education
Training
1500 school hours; State board exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license +500 training hours
Renewal
Renew every year by licensee’s birthday; $25 fee
Reciprocity
Applicants in WI, VT, TX, TN, NY, NY, MN, MI, MA, MD, KS, HI, FL, CT and CO must take exams (NIC, state theory, practical)
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Louisiana Board of Cosmetology
(225) 756-3404
steve.young@la.gov
Learn more about Louisiana state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Louisiana with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old; 10th grade education
Training
1500 school hours / 2500 apprentice hours; Exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + work experience + 1000 training hours
Renewal
Renew every year in October; $50 fee
Reciprocity
Hold a valid license in another state with similar requirements; If requirements differ, must pass state exams
CEUs
Instructors: 14 CEUs per year
State Board
Maine Office of Professional & Occupational Regulation – Barbering & Cosmetology Licensing
(207) 624-8579
barbercosm.lic@maine.gov
Learn more about Maine state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Maine with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old; 9th grade education
Training
1500 school hours / 24-month apprenticeship; Exams
Instructor License
2 years of experience + senior cosmetologist exam + cosmetologist exam
Renewal
Renew every 2 years; $25 fee
Reciprocity
Hold a valid license in another state with similar requirements; Provide certification that license is current and in good standing
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Maryland Board of Cosmetologists
(410) 230-6320
cos@dllr.state.md.us
Learn more about Maryland state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Maryland with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old; 10th grade education
Training
1000 school hours; Exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 2 years as junior instructor
Renewal
Renew every 2 years by licensee’s birthday; $68 fee
Reciprocity
Must pass the state’s written and practical board exams
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Board of Registration of Cosmetologists
(617) 727-9940
kim.m.scully@state.ma.us
Learn more about Massachusetts state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Massachusetts with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old; 9th grade education
Training
1500 school hours / 2-year apprenticeship; Exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 500 training hours
Renewal
Renew every 2 years by the end of August; $48 fee
Reciprocity
Hold a valid license in another state with similar or greater requirements
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Michigan Department of Licensing & Regulatory Affairs – Cosmetology Department
(517) 241-8720
bcslic@michigan.gov
Learn more about Michigan state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Michigan with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
High school diploma or GED
Training
1550 school hours; Exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 1400 work hours + 38 training hours + 3 exams
Renewal
Renew every 3 years; $81 fees
Reciprocity
Verification of current licensure, high school diploma, completion of exams and an application for reciprocity
CEUs
Cosmetologists: 4 CEUs every 3 years; Instructors: 45 CEUs every 3 years
State Board
Minnesota Board of Cosmetologist Examiners
(651) 201-2742
bceboard@state.mn.us
Learn more about Minnesota state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Minnesota with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old; Must be able to read, write and speak English; High school education or equivalent
Training
1500 school hours (9 months); Exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 12 board-approved college hours + 750 instructor training hours with 2+ years of experience OR 2,000 training hours with 2 years of experience
Renewal
Renew every 2 years; $50 fee
Reciprocity
Submit an application and an affidavit/ certification of training that meets Mississippi’s reciprocity requirements; Appear for an application eligibility interview
CEUs
Instructors: 24 CEUs every 2 years; Master cosmetologists: 16 CEUs every 2 years
State Board
Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology
(601) 359-1820
lmontgomery@msbc.state.ms.us
Learn more about Mississippi state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Mississippi with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old; 10th grade education or equivalent
Training
1500 school hours / 3000 apprentice hours; Theory and practical exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 600 training hours
Renewal
Renew by Sept. 30 of odd-numbered years; $30 fee
Reciprocity
Hold a current license in a state with substantially similar or superior requirements; Practiced cosmetology for 2 consecutive years in another state
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Missouri Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners
(573) 751-1052
cosbar@pr.mo.gov
Learn more about Missouri state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Missouri with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 18 years old; High school education or GED
Training
2000 school/ course hours; Written and practical exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 650-hour teacher training course + 1 year of work experience
Renewal
Renew biennially by March 1; $80 fee
Reciprocity
Hold a license in a state with comparable training and testing requirements; may be required to take additional training hours plus national exams
CEUs
Cosmetologists: 30 CEUs every 2 years; Instructors: 60 CEUs every 2 years
State Board
Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
(406) 841-2202
dlibsdcos@mt.gov
Learn more about Montana state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Montana with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old; High school education or equivalent; Basic first aid class
Training
2100 school hours (2000 credits); Written and practical exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 925 training hours
Renewal
Renew biennially by Dec. 31 of even-numbered years; $118 fee
Reciprocity
Hold a current license in another jurisdiction issued on the basis of a written and practical examination; Complete a cosmetology course consisting of at least 2100 hours
CEUs
8 CE hours biennially
State Board
Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services – Cosmetology
(402) 471-2117
Kris.Chiles@nebraska.gov
Learn more about Nebraska state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Nebraska with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 18 years old; 10th grade education or equivalent
Training
1800 school hours; Exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 500 training hours with a provisional instructor license OR 1000 hours without
Renewal
Renew by June 30, in every odd-numbered year; $70 fee
Reciprocity
Must have a current license (in good standing) in another state; Must have passed a NIC written exam in state of licensure, or take the exam in Nevada
CEUs
Cosmetologists: 4 CE hours in Infection Control every 2 years; Instructors: 30 CEUs every 2 years
State Board
Nevada State Board of Cosmetology
(702) 486-6542
cosmo@nvcosmobd.nv.gov
Learn more about Nevada state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Nevada with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
High school education or equivalent; Good professional character
Training
1500 school hours / 3000 apprentice hours within 18 months; Exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 8 years of experience or 500 training hours + 1 year of experience or 800 training hours
Renewal
Renew every 2 years by the last day of the licensee’s birthday month; $40 fee
Reciprocity
Must have completed 1500 training hours in home state or 3000 hours of work experience; Pass a hands-on practical exam and a national written exam in English
CEUs
Instructors: 28 CEUs every 2 years
State Board
New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology & Esthetics
(603) 271-3608
kira.hageman@nh.gov
Learn more about New Hampshire state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
New Hampshire with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old; High school diploma or equivalent
Training
1200 school hours; Exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 6 months of employment + 500 school hours + 30-hour teaching methods course
Renewal
Renew by Sept. 30 of even-numbered years; $60 fee
Reciprocity
Hold a current license in another state with satisfactory requirements; Otherwise, must submit an “out-of-state” application and required documentation, and pass exams
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling
(973) 504-6400
Askconsumeraffairs@dca.com
Learn more about New Jersey state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
New Jersey with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old; 10th grade education
Training
1600 school hours; Written, practice and board jurisprudence exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 1000 training hours
Renewal
Renew every 2 years in licensee’s birthday month; $50 fee
Reciprocity
Provide verification of licensure in another state with similar or superior requirements; May substitute 150 credit hours for each 6 full months of licensed experience
CEUs
Instructors: 12 CEUs per year
State Board
New Mexico Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
(505) 476-4622
barberscosmetologists@state.nm.us
Learn more about New Mexico state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
New Mexico with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old
Training
1000 school hours; Written and practical exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 2 years of experience + Secondary Assessment of Teaching Skills Written (ATS-W) exam
Renewal
Renew every 4 years; $40 fee
Reciprocity
Must be currently licensed from a state on NY’s reciprocity list; In some instances, must have 1+ years of licensure in order to qualify
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
New York Department of State Division of Licensing Services – Cosmetology
(518) 474-4429
licensing@dos.ny.gov
Learn more about New York state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
New York with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
N/A
Training
1500 school hours; Board exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 800-hour training program or proof of 5 years full-time work in a cosmetic art shop
Renewal
Renew every 3 years by Oct. 1; $23 fee
Reciprocity
Hold a current license in good standing, meaning no disciplinary actions; Licensed in a state that offers reciprocity to North Carolina
CEUs
Cosmetologists: 24 CE hours every 3 years; Instructors: 8 CEUs every year
State Board
North Carolina Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners
(919) 733-4117
nccosmo@nccosmeticarts.com
Learn more about North Carolina state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
North Carolina with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
High school diploma
Training
1800 school hours; Written, practical and state law exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 1 year of experience + 160 training hours
Renewal
Renew every year by Dec. 31; $15 fee
Reciprocity
Provide a letter of certification from current state board and a copy of the state’s licensing requirements; Must take the North Dakota Laws, Rules & Regulations exam
CEUs
Instructors: 8 board-approved CEUs every year
State Board
North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology
(701) 224-9800
cosmo@midconetwork.com
Learn more about North Dakota state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
North Dakota with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 16 years old; 10th grade education
Training
1500 school hours; Exams
Instructor License
Managing cosmetology license + 1000 training hours or 1 year of salon experience
Renewal
Renew by Jan. 31 of every odd-numbered year; $45 fee
Reciprocity
Does not offer reciprocity; Must take and pass Ohio’s practical, theoretical and manager exams
CEUs
8 board-approved CEUS every 2 years
State Board
Ohio State Board of Cosmetology
(614) 466-3834
sue.gatwood@cos.state.oh.us
Learn more about Ohio state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Ohio with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 16 years old; 8th grade education
Training
1500 school hours or 3000 apprentice hours; Written and practical exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + exams + 1000 training hours or 500 hours + 2 years of recent licensed work experience
Renewal
Renew annually, on the last day of the licensee’s birthday month; $25 fee
Reciprocity
Hold a current license in a state with equal or higher requirements; At least 3 years of recent, licensed work experience; May be required to take exams
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology & Barbering
(405) 521-2441
mhays@cosmo.ok.gov
Learn more about Oklahoma state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Oklahoma with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
N/A
Training
1800 school hours; 150 hours of safety/ infection control + 100 hours of career development; Written and state law exams
Instructor License
2 years of training + 1 year of work experience as a certified practitioner following licensure + teacher registration (issued by the Department of Education)
Renewal
Renew every 2 years by the last day of the month of issuance; $40 fee
Reciprocity
Submit an affidavit of licensure and a qualifying application; Pass the written exam, which includes the Oregon Laws & Rules exam
CEUs
Instructors: 30 CE hours for renewal of teacher registration
State Board
Oregon Health Licensing Agency – Board of Cosmetology
(503) 378-8667
hlo.info@state.or.us
Learn more about Oregon state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
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Oregon with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 16 years old; 10th grade education or equivalent
Training
1250 school hours / 2000 approved apprentice hours in 8 months; Theory and practical exams
Instructor License
12th grade education + cosmetology license + 500 training hours + exams
Renewal
Renew every 2 years, in even/odd-numbered years, by Jan. 31; $67 fee
Reciprocity
Hold a current license; Have 2 years of working experience from the original licensure dates
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Pennsylvania State Board of Cosmetology
(717) 783-7130
st-cosmetology@pa.gov
Learn more about Pennsylvania state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
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Pennsylvania with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 18 years old; of good moral character; U.S. citizen / legal entry; High school education or equivalent
Training
1500 school hours; Written and practical exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license for at least 3 years + 300 hours of teacher training + exams
Renewal
Renew every 2 years by Sept. 30, on an odd-even year basis; $67 fee
Reciprocity
Hold a license in another state with equivalent educational requirements (work experience may be considered); Pass licensing exams
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
State of Rhode Island Department of Health – Board of Barbering & Hairdressing
(401) 222-2828
maureen.slowik@health.ri.gov
Learn more about Rhode Island state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
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Rhode Island with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 16 years old; 10th grade education or equivalent
Training
High school diploma or GED + cosmetology license + 45-hour teaching methods course + 2 years in practice or 750-hour instructor training program
Instructor License
High school diploma or GED; Pass Written and Practical exams; Hold a license, and have practiced for at least 2 years; Completed a 750-hour teacher training program; Completed a Board approved 45-hour method of teaching program
Renewal
Renew every 2 years by March 10; $52 fee
Reciprocity
Hold a current license, which is in good standing, in another state; Must have passed a nationally recognized exam
CEUs
Cosmetologists: 12 CEUs biennially; Instructors: 24 CEUs biennially
State Board
South Carolina Board of Cosmetology
(803) 896-4588
BoardInfo@llr.sc.gov
Learn more about South Carolina state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
South Carolina with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 18 years old; High school diploma or GED
Training
2100 school hours; NIC written, NIC practical and state law exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 1000 hours of salon experience + 1012 clock-hour instructor education program
Renewal
Renew on or before the licensee’s birth date every year; $20 fee
Reciprocity
Hold a current license from a state with equal or greater requirements; Work experience may be considered (2 work hrs = 1 school hr); Pass SD laws and rules exam
CEUs
Instructors: 12 CE hours of a commission-approved course per year
State Board
South Dakota Cosmetology Commission
(605) 773-6193
cosmetology@state.sd.us
Learn more about South Dakota state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
South Dakota with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 16 years old; 10th grade education
Training
1500 school hours; Written and practical exams
Instructor License
High school diploma or GED + cosmetology license + 300 hours of instructor training in 6 months or 1 year of junior instruction
Renewal
Renew every 2 years before license expiration date; $50 fee
Reciprocity
Provide proof of a current license from another state with equal requirements; May substitute with proof of 5 years of work experience
CEUs
Instructors: 16 CEUs every 2 years
State Board
Tennessee Board of Cosmetology & Barber Examiners
(615) 741-2515
Cosmetology.Board@TN.Gov
Learn more about Tennessee state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
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Tennessee with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old; High school diploma or equivalent
Training
1500 school hours; Written and practical exams
Instructor License
Operator license + 750 hours of instructor training or 1 year of work experience + 500 hours of instructor training
Renewal
Renew every 2 years by date of original licensure; $53 fee
Reciprocity
Licensed in a state with substantially equivalent requirements; In some cases, work experience may be credited
CEUs
4 CEU hours through department-approved courses
State Board
Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation – Board of Cosmetology
(800) 803-9202
CS.Cosmetologists@tdlr.texas.gov
Learn more about Texas state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Texas with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old; Of good moral character
Training
1600 school hours / 2500 apprentice hours; Exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 1000-hour instructor training program OR 3000 hours of experience
Renewal
Renew by Sept. 30 of odd-numbered years; $52 fee
Reciprocity
Submit verification of current license; Must meet educational or experience requirements and exam requirements
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Utah Division of Occupational & Professional Licensing – Cosmetology & Barbering
(801) 530-6628
doplweb@utah.gov
Learn more about Utah state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
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Utah with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 18 years old; High school diploma or GED
Training
1500 school hours / 24-month apprenticeship; Theory, practical and state law exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 3 years of full-time experience + exams
Renewal
Renew by Nov. 30 of odd-numbered years; $130 fee
Reciprocity
Hold a license in a state whose requirements are equal or superior to Vermont’s; Pass a state law exam
CEUs
Instructors: 24 CEUs every 2 years
State Board
Vermont Board of Barbers & Cosmetologists
(802) 828-1134
kshangraw@sec.state.vt.us
Learn more about Vermont state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
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Vermont with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
N/A
Training
1500 school hours / 3000 apprentice hours; Written and practical exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + post-secondary course in teaching techniques or board-approved instructor training course or cosmetology instruction exam
Renewal
Renew every 2 years by date of original licensure; $40 fee
Reciprocity
Have a current license in a state with substantially similar training requirements; Submit application for endorsement and proof of licensure
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetology
(804) 367-8590
BarberCosmo@dpor.virginia.gov
Learn more about Virginia state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Virginia with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 17 years old
Training
1600 school hours / 2000 apprentice hours; Written and performance exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 500 classroom hours + exams
Renewal
Renew every 2 years; $55 fee
Reciprocity
Have a current license in good standing in another state; If licensed in another country, must pass state exams
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Washington State Department of Licensing-Cosmetologists
(360) 664-6626
plssunit@dol.wa.gov
Learn more about Washington state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
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Washington with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 18 years old; High school education; Of good moral character
Training
1800 school hours; Written and practical exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 5 years of recent salon experience + interview + exam
Renewal
Renew annually; $35 fee
Reciprocity
If licensed in a NIC state, must pass state law exam; If licensed in a non-NIC state, submit an application for review
CEUs
4 CEUs per year
State Board
West Virginia State Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
(304) 558-2924
adam.l.higginbotham@wv.gov
Learn more about West Virginia state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
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West Virginia with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 18 years old; High school diploma or equivalent
Training
1550 school hours in no less than 10 months / 3712 apprentice hours + 288 hours of theory instruction; Exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 4000 hours of practice or 2000 hours of practice + 150 training hours
Renewal
Renew in March of odd-numbered years; $82 fee
Reciprocity
Currently licensed in another state; Completed at least 4,000 hours of licensed practice
CEUs
4 board-approved CEUs every 2 years
State Board
Wisconsin Cosmetology Examining Board
(608) 266-2112
dsps@wisconsin.gov
Learn more about Wisconsin state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
Get Professional Insurance in
Wisconsin with NACAMS
$179 per year
Prerequisites
At least 16 years old; 10th grade education
Training
2000 school hours; Theory and practical exams
Instructor License
Cosmetology license + 1000 hours of instructor training
Renewal
First renewal occurs after one year of acquisition; then, renew every 2 years in the licensee’s birthday month; $96 fee
Reciprocity
Currently licensed in a state with equal requirements; Must have graduated from a state-recognized school and taken board-administered exams
CEUs
Not Required
State Board
Wyoming Board of Cosmetology
(307) 777-3534
brenda.mathre@wyo.gov
Learn more about Wisconsin state requirements and insurance.
Note: This information has been gathered from external sources and is for informational purposes. Please check with your local regulations to verify your state and local requirements.
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Wyoming with NACAMS
$179 per year
To become a licensed or certified cosmetologist, one thing is clear: you need to receive an education in cosmetology. However, the type of education you need to receive may differ depending on your current state of residence. While most states will require you to attend an approved beauty school, others will allow you to complete an apprenticeship instead. In addition to training requirements, you also need to be aware of state specific guidelines on continuing education units (CEUs), license renewal periods and fees, license reciprocity or transfer, etc.
Find out if there are any special guidelines that you need to be aware of as you build your career by locating your state in the grid below:
| State | Prerequisites | Cosmetology License | Cosmetology Instructor License | Continuing Education Units (CEUs) | License Renewal | License Reciprocity (Transfer) | State Board |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama » | • At least 17 years old • 10th grade education | • 1500 school hours / 3000 apprentice hours in 3 years • Written and practical exams | 12th grade education + 1 year in practice + 650-hour teacher training course + exams | • Master license: 8 CEUs for renewal • Instructor license: 16 CEUs for renewal | • Renew every 2 odd-numbered years in the applicant’s birthday month • $80 fee | • Submit current state certification • Complete paperwork and pass necessary exams | Alabama Board of CosmetologyPhone: (334) 242-1918 Email:cosmetology@aboc.alabama.gov |
| Alaska » | • At least 17 years old • High school education or equivalent | • 1650 school hours / 2000 apprentice hours • Written and practical exams | Exams + 3 years in practice OR 1 year in practice + 600 training hours | Not required | • Renew by Aug. 31 of odd-numbered years • $160 fee / $240 instructor fee | • Hold a current license in a state with equivalent requirements • 1 year of full-time employment + 1500 school hours, OR 2 years of full-time employment | Alaska Board of Barbers & HairdressersPhone: (907) 465-2547 Email:cynthia.spencer@alaska.gov |
| Arizona » | • At least 23 years old • 2 years of high school education or equivalent | • 1600 school hours • Written and practical exams | 1 year of licensure + 650 hours of training | Not required | • Renew every year by the practitioner’s birthday • $30 fee | • At least 1 year of practice in current state of licensure within the five years prior to application | Arizona State Board of CosmetologyPhone:(480) 784-4539 |
| Arkansas » | • At least 16 years old • 10th grade education or equivalent | • 1500 school hours • Written and practical exams | 600 hours in cosmetology teaching courses + exam | Not required | • Renew every 2 years by the practitioner’s birthday • $80 fee | • Hold a valid cosmetology license • Have certification of licensure and training • Pass a state law exam | Arkansas Department of Health – CosmetologyPhone: (501) 682-2168 |
| California » | • At least 16 years old • 10th grade education or equivalent | • 1600 school hours / 3200 apprentice hours • Written and practical exams | N/A | Not required | • Renew every 2 years, in odd-numbered years, by the original licensing date • $50 fee | • Must hold a cosmetology license in good standing in home state • Must be licensed 3 out of the last 5 years | California Board of Barbering and CosmetologyPhone: (800) 952-5210 Email:barbercosmo@dca.ca.gov |
| Colorado » | • At least 16 years old | • 1800 school hours • Written and practical exams | Cosmetology license + 2 years of experience | Not required | • Renew every 2 years, in odd- or even-numbers years, by April 30 • $32 fee / $47 reinstate fee | • Submit an application for licensure by endorsement • Hold a valid license from home state with equivalent requirements | Colorado Office of Barber & Cosmetologist LicensingPhone: (303) 894-7427 Email: Barber-Cosmetology@dora.state.co.us |
| Connecticut » | • At least 16 years old • 8th grade education | • 1500 school hours • Written exam | N/A | 10 CEUs for renewal | • Renew every 2 years by the last day of your birth month • $100 fee | • Hold a valid license from a state with equivalent requirements • Pass a written exam | Connecticut Department of Public Health – Board for Barbers, Hairdressers & CosmeticiansPhone: (860) 509-7603 Email:dph.hairdresserteam@ct.gov |
| Delaware » | 10th grade education or equivalent | • 1500 school hours / 3000 apprentice hours • Theory and practical exams | 500 training hours + cosmetology license, OR 250 training hours + 2 years of experience | Not required | • Renew by Oct. 31 of even-numbered years | • Method 1: Must be licensed in a state with equal requirements • Method 2: Submit a notarized statement from an employer certifying that you have been working for at least 5 years | Delaware Board of Cosmetology and BarberingPhone: (302) 744-4500 Email:customerservice.dpr@state.de.us |
| Florida » | • At least 16 years old • High school diploma | • 1200 school hours • Exams | 16 board-approved CEUs for renewal | • Renew by October 31 • Group 1 licenses: even-numbered years / Group 2 licenses: odd-numbered years • $55 fee | • Hold an active license in another state with equal requirements • Otherwise, must complete additional training hours to qualify for endorsement | Florida Division of Professions, Board of CosmetologyPhone: (850) 487-1395 | |
| Georgia » | • At least 17 years old | • 1500 school hours / 3000 apprentice hours in 18 months • Written and practical exams | Cosmetology license + 750 training hours + exams | 5 CEUS every 2 years for renewal | • Renew bienally by March 31 of even-numbered years • $50 fee | Must be licensed in a state or country that has similar requirements and grants reciprocity to Georgia licensees | Georgia State Board of CosmetologyPhone: (478) 207-2440 |
| Hawaii » | • At least 16 years old • High school education or equivalent | • 1800 school hours / 3600 apprentice hours • Written and practical exams | Cosmetology license + 600 teacher training hours | Not required | • Renew by March 31 of odd-numbered years • $100 fee | • Completed similar or equivalent education requirements • May be required to take written and practical exams | Hawaii Board of Barbering and CosmetologyPhone: (808) 586-3000 Email:barber_cosm@dcca.hawaii.gov |
| Idaho » | • At least 16.5 years old • 10th grade education or equivalent | • 2000 school hours / 4000 apprentice hours • Exams | Cosm. license + 2 years experience + 1000 student teaching hours, ORcosm. license + 2-5 years experience + 500 student teaching hours | Not required | • Renew every year by applicant’s birthday • $20 fee | • Must be licensed 3 of the last 5 years to qualify for endorsement • Hold an active license in a state with similar requirements, or complete additional hours to meet minimum | Idaho Bureau of Occupational Licenses, Board of CosmetologyPhone: (208) 334-3233 Email:ibol@ibol.idaho.gov |
| Illinois » | • At least 18 years old • High school diploma or equivalent | • 1500 school hours • Exams | Cosm. license + 1000 training hoursOR 2 years of experience + 500 training hours | • Cosmetologists: 14 CEUs every 2 years • Instructors: 24 CEUs every 2 years | • Renew by Sept. 30 of each odd-numbered year • $25 fee per year | • Submit an application for licensure by endorsement • Provide certification of licensure from current state board | Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation – CosmetologyPhone: (800) 560-6420 |
| Indiana » | • At least 18 years old • 10th grade education or equivalent | • 1500 school hours • Written and practical exams | Cosmetology license + 1000 training hours | Not required | • Renew every 4 years by August 1 • $40 fee | • Must be licensed in a state that requires 1500 training hours • At least 70% passing on written and practical exams | Indiana Professional Licensing Agency – State Board of Cosmetology & Barber ExaminersPhone: (317) 234-3031 Email:pla12@pla.in.gov |
| Iowa » | • At least 16 years old • 10th grade education or equivalent | • 2100 school hours • Exams | Cosmetology license + 1000 teacher training hours OR 2 years of experience in last 6 years | 8 CEUS every 2 years | • Renew by Dec. 31 of even-numbered years • $60 fee | • Transfer through endorsement • Must be licensed in a state with similar or equivalent requirements for 12 of the last 24 months | Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts & SciencesPhone: (515) 281-4416 Email:rosemary.bonanno@idph.iowa.gov |
| Kansas » | • At least 17 years old • High school diploma or equivalent | • 1500 school hours • Exams | Cosmetology license + 300 training hours + 450 teaching hours | Not required | • Renew every 2 years in the month of original licensure • $60 fee | • Must be licensed in a state with similar or equivalent requirements • Must pass an open book exam | Kansas Board of CosmetologyPhone: (785) 296-3155 Email:kboc@kboc.ks.gov |
| Kentucky » | • At least 17 years old • 12th grade education | • 1800 school hours • Apprentice examination, written & practical | Cosmetology license for 1 year + 1000 training hours + instructor exams | Not required | • Renew every year between July 1-31 • $20 fee | • Must have a certification of license from state board that issued the license • May be required to take exams | Kentucky Board of Hairdressers and CosmetologistsPhone: (502) 564-4262 |
| Louisiana » | • At least 16 years old • 10th grade education | • 1500 school hourss • State board exams | Cosmetology license + 500 training hours | Not required | • Renew every year by licensee’s birthday • $25 fee | Applicants in WI, VT, TX, TN, NY, NY, MN, MI, MA, MD, KS, HI, FL, CT and CO must take exams (NIC, state theory, practical) | Louisiana State Board of CosmetologyPhone: (225) 756-3404 Email:steve.young@la.gov |
| Maine » | • At least 17 years old • 10th grade education | • 1500 school hours / 2500 apprentice hours • Exams | Cosmetology license + work experience + 1000 training hours | Instructors: 14 CEUs per year | • Renew every year in October • $50 fee | • Hold a valid license in another state with similar requirements • If requirements differ, must pass state exams | Maine Office of Professional & Occupational Regulation – Barbering & Cosmetology LicensingPhone: (207) 624-8579 Email:barbercosm.lic@maine.gov |
| Maryland » | • At least 17 years old • 9th grade education | • 1500 school hours / 24-month apprenticeship • Exams | 2 years of experience + senior cosmetologist exam + cosmetologist exam | Not required | • Renew every 2 years • $25 fee | • Hold a valid license in another state with similar requirements • Provide certification that license is current and in good standing | Maryland Board of CosmetologistsPhone: (410) 230-6320 Email:cos@dllr.state.md.us |
| Massachusetts » | • At least 17 years old • 10th grade education | • 1000 school hours • Exams | Cosmetology license + 2 years as junior instructor | Not required | • Renew every 2 years by licensee’s birthday • $68 fee | Must pass the state’s written and practical board exams | Board of Registration of CosmetologistsPhone: (617) 727-9940 Email:kim.m.scully@state.ma.us |
| Michigan » | • At least 17 years old • 9th grade education | • 1500 school hours / 2-year apprenticeship • Exams | Cosmetology license + 500 training hours | Not required | • Renew every 2 years by the end of August • $48 fee | Hold a valid license in another state with similar or greater requirements | Michigan Department of Licensing & Regulatory Affairs – Cosmetology DepartmentPhone: (517) 241-8720 Email:bcslic@michigan.gov |
| Minnesota » | High school diploma or GED | • 1550 school hours • Exams | Cosmetology license + 1400 work hours + 38 training hours + 3 exams | • Cosmetologists: 4 CEUs every 3 years • Instructors: 45 CEUs every 3 years | • Renew every 3 years • $81 fees | Verification of current licensure, high school diploma, completion of exams and an application for reciprocity | Minnesota Board of Cosmetologist ExaminersPhone: (651) 201-2742 Email:bceboard@state.mn.us |
| Mississippi » | • At least 17 years old • Must be able to read, write and speak English • High school education or equivalent | • 1500 school hours (9 mos.) • Exams | Cosm. license + 12 board-approved college hours + 750 instructor training hours with 2+ years of experience OR 2,000 training hours with 2 years of experience | • Instructors: 24 CEUs every 2 years • Master cosmetologists: 16 CEUs every 2 years | • Renew every 2 years • $50 fee | • Submit an application and an affidavit/ certification of training that meets Mississippi’s reciprocity requirements • Appear for an application eligibility interview | Mississippi State Board of CosmetologyPhone: (601) 359-1820 |
| Missouri » | • At least 17 years old • 10th grade education or equivalent | • 1500 school hours / 3000 apprentice hours • Theory and practical exams | Cosmetology license + 600 training hours | Not required | • Renew by Sept. 30 of odd-numbered years • $30 fee | • Hold a current license in a state with substantially similar or superior requirements • Practiced cosmetology for 2 consecutive years in another state | Missouri Board of Cosmetology and Barber ExaminersPhone: (573) 751-1052 Email:cosbar@pr.mo.gov |
| Montana » | • At least 18 years old • High school education or GED | • 2000 school/ course hours • Written and practical exams | Cosmetology license + 650-hour teacher training course + 1 year of work experience | • Cosmetologists: 30 CEUs every 2 years • Instructors: 60 CEUs every 2 years | • Renew biennially by March 1 • $80 fee | • Hold a license in a state with comparable training and testing requirements • Otherwise, may be required to take additional training hours plus national exams | Montana Board of Barbers and CosmetologistsPhone:(406) 841-2202 Email:dlibsdcos@mt.gov |
| Nebraska » | • At least 17 years old • High school education or equivalent • Basic first aid class | • 2100 school hours (2000 credits) • Written and practical exams | Cosmetology license + 925 training hours | 8 CE hours biennially | • Renew biennially by Dec. 31 of even-numbered years • $118 fee | • Hold a current license in another jurisdiction issued on the basis of a written and practical examination • Complete a cosmetology course consisting of at least 2100 hours | Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services – CosmetologyPhone: (402) 471-2117 Email:Kris.Chiles@nebraska.gov |
| Nevada » | • At least 18 years old • 10th grade education or equivalent | • 1800 school hours • Exams | Cosmetology license + 500 training hours with a provisional instructor license OR 1000 hours without | • Cosmetologists: 4 CE hours in Infection Control every 2 years • Instructors: 30 CEUs every 2 years | • Renew by June 30, in every odd-numbered year • $70 fee | • Must have a current license (in good standing) in another state • Must have passed a NIC written exam in state of licensure, or take the exam in Nevada | Nevada State Board of CosmetologyPhone: (702) 486-6542 Email:cosmo@nvcosmobd.nv.gov |
| New Hampshire » | • High school education or equivalent • Good professional character | • 1500 school hours / 3000 apprentice hours within 18 months • Exams | Cosmetology license + 8 years of experience OR 500 training hours + 1 year of experienceOR 800 training hours | Instructors: 28 CEUs every 2 years | • Renew every 2 years by the last day of the licensee’s birthday month • $40 fee | • Must have completed 1500 training hours in home state or 3000 hours of work experience • Pass a hands-on practical exam and a national written exam in English | New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology & EstheticsPhone: (603) 271-3608 |
| New Jersey » | • At least 17 years old • High school diploma or equivalent | • 1200 school hours • Exams | Cosmetology license + 6 months of employment + 500 school hours + 30-hour teaching methods course | Not required | • Renew by Sept. 30 of even-numbered years • $60 fee | • Hold a current license in another state with satisfactory requirements • Otherwise, must submit an “out-of-state” application and required documentation, and pass exams | New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology & HairstylingPhone: (973) 504-6400 |
| New Mexico » | • At least 17 years old • 10th grade education | • 1600 school hours • Written, practice and board jurisprudence exams | Cosmetology license + 1000 training hours | Instructors: 12 CEUs per year | • Renew every 2 years in licensee’s birthday month • $50 fee | • Provide verification of licensure in another state with similar or superior requirements • May substitute 150 credit hours for each 6 full months of licensed experience | New Mexico Board of Barbers & CosmetologistsPhone: (505) 476-4622 Email:barberscosmetologists@state.nm.us |
| New York » | At least 17 years old | • 1000 school hours • Written and practical exams | Cosmetology license + 2 years of experience + Secondary Assessment of Teaching Skills Written (ATS-W) exam | Not required | • Renew every 4 years • $40 fee | • Must be currently licensed from a state on NY’s reciprocity list • In some instances, must have 1+ years of licensure in order to qualify | New York Department of State Division of Licensing Services – CosmetologyPhone: (518) 474-4429 Email:licensing@dos.ny.gov |
| North Carolina » | • 1500 school hours • Board exams | Cosmetology license + 800-hour training program ORproof of 5 years full-time work in a cosmetic art shop | • Cosmetologists: 24 CE hours every 3 years • Instructors: 8 CEUs every year | • Renew every 3 years by Oct. 1 • $23 fee | • Hold a current license in good standing, meaning no disciplinary actions • Licensed in a state that offers reciprocity to North Carolina | North Carolina Board of Cosmetic Art ExaminersPhone: (919) 733-4117 Email:nccosmo@nccosmeticarts.com | |
| North Dakota » | High school diploma | • 1800 school hours • Written, practical and state law exams | Cosmetology license + 1 year of experience + 160 training hours | Instructors: 8 board-approved CEUs every year | • Renew every year by Dec. 31 • $15 fee | • Provide a letter of certification from current state board and a copy of the state’s licensing requirements • Must take the North Dakota Laws, Rules & Regulations exam | North Dakota State Board of CosmetologyPhone: (701) 224-9800 Email:cosmo@midconetwork.com |
| Ohio » | • At least 16 years old • 10th grade education | • 1500 school hours • Exams | Managing cosmetology license + 1000 training hours OR 1 year of salon experience | 8 board-approved CEUS every 2 years | • Renew by Jan. 31 of every odd-numbered year • $45 fee | • Does not offer reciprocity • Must take and pass Ohio’s practical, theoretical and manager exams | Ohio State Board of CosmetologyPhone: (614) 466-3834 Email:sue.gatwood@cos.state.oh.us |
| Oklahoma » | • At least 16 years old • 8th grade education | • 1500 school hours or 3000 apprentice hours • Written and practical exams | Cosmetology license + exams + 1000 training hoursOR 500 hours + 2 years of recent licensed work experience | Not required | • Renew annually, on the last day of the licensee’s birthday month • $25 fee | • Hold a current license in a state with equal or higher requirements • At least 3 years of recent, licensed work experience • May be required to take exams | Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology & BarberingPhone: (405) 521-2441 Email:mhays@cosmo.ok.gov |
| Oregon » | None | • 1800 school hours • 150 hours of safety/ infection control + 100 hours of career development • Written and state law exams | 2 years of training + 1 year of work experience as a certified practitioner following licensure + teacher registration (issued by the Department of Education) | Instructors: 30 CE hours for renewal of teacher registration | • Renew every 2 years by the last day of the month of issuance • $40 fee | • Submit an affidavit of licensure and a qualifying application • Pass the written exam, which includes the Oregon Laws & Rules exam | Oregon Health Licensing Agency – Board of CosmetologyPhone: (503) 378-8667 Email:hlo.info@state.or.us |
| Pennsylvania » | • At least 16 years old • 10th grade education or equivalent | • 1250 school hours / 2000 approved apprentice hours in 8 months • Theory and practical exams | 12th grade education + cosmetology license + 500 training hours + exams | • Renew every 2 years, in even/odd-numbered years, by Jan. 31 • $67 fee | • Hold a current license • Have 2 years of working experience from the original licensure dates | Pennsylvania Department of State – Board of CosmetologyPhone: (717) 783-7130 Email: st-cosmetology@pa.gov | |
| Rhode Island » | • At least 18 years old • Of good moral character • U.S. citizen / legal entry • High school education or equivalent | • 1500 school hours • Written and practical exams | Cosmetology license for at least 3 years + 300 hours of teacher training + exams | Not required | • Renew every 2 years by Sept. 30, on an odd-even year basis • $67 fee | • Hold a license in another state with equivalent educational requirements (work experience may be considered) • Pass licensing exams | State of Rhode Island Department of Health – Board of Barbering & HairdressingPhone: (401) 222-2828 Email:maureen.slowik@health.ri.gov |
| South Carolina » | • At least 16 years old • 10th grade education or equivalent | • 1500 school hours • Exams | High school diploma or GED + cosmetology license + 45-hour teaching methods course + 2 years in practice OR750-hour instructor training program | • Cosmetologists: 12 CEUs biennially • Instructors: 24 CEUs biennially | • Renew every 2 years by March 10 • $52 fee | • Hold a current license, which is in good standing, in another state • Must have passed a nationally recognized exam | South Carolina Board of CosmetologyPhone: (803) 896-4588 Email:BoardInfo@llr.sc.gov |
| South Dakota » | • At least 18 years old • High school diploma or GED | • 2100 school hours • NIC written, NIC practical and state law exams | Cosmetology license + 1000 hours of salon experience + 1012 clock-hour instructor education program | Instructors: 12 CE hours of a commission-approved course per year | • Renew on or before the licensee’s birth date every year • $20 fee | • Hold a current license from a state with equal or greater requirements • Work experience may be considered (2 work hrs = 1 school hr) • Pass SD laws and rules exam | South Dakota Cosmetology CommissionPhone: (605) 773-6193 Email:cosmetology@state.sd.us |
| Tennessee » | • At least 16 years old • 10th grade education | • 1500 school hours • Written and practical exams | High school diploma or GED + cosmetology license + 300 hours of instructor training in 6 months OR 1 year of junior instruction | Instructors: 16 CEUs every 2 years | • Renew every 2 years before license expiration date • $50 fee | • Provide proof of a current license from another state with equal requirements • May substitute with proof of 5 years of work experience | Tennessee Board of Cosmetology & Barber ExaminersPhone: (615) 741-2515 Email:Cosmetology.Board@TN.Gov |
| Texas » | • At least 17 years old • High school diploma or equivalent | • 1500 school hours • Written and practical exams | Operator license + 750 hours of instructor trainingOR 1 year of work experience + 500 hours of instructor training | 4 CE hours through department-approved courses | • Renew every 2 years by date of original licensure • $53 fee | • Licensed in a state with substantially equivalent requirements • In some cases, work experience may be credited | Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation – Board of CosmetologyPhone: (800) 803-9202 Email:CS.Cosmetologists@tdlr.texas.gov |
| Utah » | • At least 17 years old • Of good moral character | • 1600 school hours / 2500 apprentice hours • Exams | Cosmetology license + 1000-hour instructor training program OR 3000 hours of experience | Not required | • Renew by Sept. 30 of odd-numbered years • $52 fee | • Submit verification of current license • Must meet educational or experience requirements and exam requirements | Utah Division of Occupational & Professional Licensing – Cosmetology & BarberingPhone: (801) 530-6628 Email:doplweb@utah.gov |
| Vermont » | • At least 18 years old • High school diploma or GED | • 1500 school hours / 24-month apprenticeship • Theory, practical and state law exams | Cosmetology license + 3 years of full-time experience + exams | Instructors: 24 CEUs every 2 years | • Renew by Nov. 30 of odd-numbered years • $130 fee | • Hold a license in a state whose requirements are equal or superior to Vermont’s • Pass a state law exam | Vermont Board of Barbers & CosmetologistsPhone: (802) 828-1134 Email:kshangraw@sec.state.vt.us |
| Virginia » | None | • 1500 school hours / 3000 apprentice hours • Written and practical exams | Cosmetology license + post-secondary course in teaching techniquesOR board-approved instructor training course ORcosmetology instruction exam | Not required | • Renew every 2 years by date of original licensure • $40 fee | • Have a current license in a state with substantially similar training requirements • Submit application for endorsement and proof of licensure | Virginia Board for Barbers & CosmetologyPhone: (804) 367-85098 Email:BarberCosmo@dpor.virginia.gov |
| Washington » | • At least 17 years old | • 1600 school hours / 2000 apprentice hours • Written and performance exams | Cosmetology license + 500 classroom hours + exams | Not required | • Renew every 2 years • $55 fee | • Have a current license in good standing in another state • If licensed in another country, must pass state exams | Washington State Department of Licensing – CosmetologistsPhone: (360) 664-6626 Email:plssunit@dol.wa.gov |
| West Virginia » | • At least 18 years old • High school education • Of good moral character | • 1800 school hours • Written and practical exams | Cosmetology license + 5 years of recent salon experience + interview + exam | 4 CEUs per year | • Renew annually • $35 fee | • If licensed in a NIC state, must pass state law exam • If licensed in a non-NIC state, submit an application for review | West Virginia State Board of Barbers & CosmetologistsPhone: (304) 558-2924 Email:adam.l.higginbotham@wv.gov |
| Wisconsin » | • At least 18 years old • High school diploma or equivalent | • 1550 school hours in no less than 10 months / 3712 apprentice hours + 288 hours of theory instruction • Exams | Cosmetology license + 4000 hours of practiceOR 2000 hours of practice + 150 training hours | 4 board-approved CEUs every 2 years | • Renew in March of odd-numbered years • $82 fee | • Currently licensed in another state • Completed at least 4,000 hours of licensed practice | Wisconsin Cosmetology Examining BoardPhone: (608) 266-2112 Email:dsps@wisconsin.gov |
| Wyoming » | • At least 16 years old • 10th grade education | • 2000 school hours • Theory and practical exams | Cosmetology license + 1000 hours of instructor training | Not required | • First renewal occurs after one year of acquisition; then, renew every 2 years in the licensee’s birthday month • $96 fee | • Currently licensed in a state with equal requirements • Must have graduated from a state-recognized school and taken board-administered exams | Wyoming Board of CosmetologyPhone: (307) 777-3534 Email:brenda.mathre@wyo.gov |