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Getting your cosmetology license takes 9-18 months of training, passing a state board exam, and filing a license application. Here is exactly what that process looks like, step by step.
1,000-1,600
Training Hours
9-18 mo
Program Length
$5K-$20K
Total Cost
16-17+
Minimum Age
Every state sets its own cosmetology licensing requirements, but most share the same general framework. Here is what you will need in almost every state:
A high school diploma or GED is required in most states. Some states allow enrollment in cosmetology school at age 16 while still in high school, but you will need your diploma or GED before the license is issued.
States require between 1,000 and 1,600 hours of cosmetology training from a state-approved school. A few states accept apprenticeship hours instead, but these typically require 2,000-4,000 hours. The training covers hair cutting, coloring, chemical treatments, skin care basics, nail services, and sanitation.
The minimum age to receive a cosmetology license is 16 or 17 in most states. Some states allow you to begin training before reaching the minimum licensing age, as long as you meet the age requirement before taking the exam.
Visit your state board of cosmetology website to confirm the exact hour requirements, minimum age, education prerequisites, and which exam your state uses (NIC, PSI, or a state-specific test). Requirements vary — California requires 1,000 hours while Oregon requires 1,700.
Choose a school that is approved by your state board and accredited by NACCAS. Compare tuition, schedule flexibility, and most importantly, their exam pass rates. Schools with higher pass rates typically do a better job preparing students for the licensing exam.
Attend classes and accumulate the required hours. Full-time programs typically take 9-12 months; part-time programs take 12-18 months. Your training covers hair services, skin care, nail care, chemistry, sanitation, and business practices.
Once your school confirms your hours are complete, apply with your state board or testing provider to schedule your exam. You will need to submit proof of completed training, identification, and the exam fee ($50-$200).
The written exam is the biggest hurdle. Most states use the NIC exam (110 questions, 90 minutes) or PSI. Focus your study time on Scientific Concepts, which makes up 35% of the NIC exam and is the domain where most students fail.
Many states also require a practical exam where you demonstrate skills like hair cutting, chemical services, and sanitation procedures on a mannequin or model. Some states (including California) have eliminated the practical exam.
After passing both exams, submit your license application to your state board along with the application fee ($25-$100). Most states issue your license within 2-6 weeks. Once you have it, you can legally practice cosmetology in that state.
The total cost of getting a cosmetology license depends on your state and the school you choose. Here is a typical breakdown:
Cosmetology school tuition
Varies widely by school and state. Community college programs tend to be cheaper.
$5,000 - $15,000+
Books and supplies
Kit with mannequins, tools, and products. Some schools include this in tuition.
$500 - $1,500
Written exam fee
Paid to the testing provider (NIC or PSI). Per attempt.
$50 - $100
Practical exam fee
If your state requires a practical exam. Per attempt.
$50 - $100
License application fee
One-time fee to your state board.
$25 - $100
License renewal
Ongoing. Some states require continuing education credits.
$25 - $75/year
Every state has its own cosmetology licensing rules. Here are detailed guides for specific states, plus a full state-by-state comparison:
Cosmetology Exam Prep Guide
Full exam format, domains, and study plan
Cosmetology Exam Pass Rates
Pass rate data by state
Is the Cosmetology Exam Hard?
Difficulty breakdown by domain
Cosmetology School Cost
Tuition, fees, and financial aid
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