How to become a cosmetologist

If you aspire to become a cosmetologist, either as a hairstylist, makeup artist, esthetician, or other related field, you will need a cosmetology license to legally practice these services.

Specifics regarding education at an esthetician school, exams, and licensing for cosmetologists differ from state to state, but here are the general requirements to get you started and help you obtain a license so you can begin your career. 

What is cosmetology?

A cosmetologist is a professional who specializes in providing beauty and aesthetic services, primarily in the areas of hair, skin, and nails. They are trained and skilled in performing various tasks such as cutting, styling, and coloring hair, providing facials and skincare treatments, and performing nail treatments like manicures and pedicures.  

Cosmetologists are often found in salons, spas, and beauty clinics, where they help clients enhance their appearance and boost their self-confidence through various beauty treatments.

Do I need a cosmetology license?

If you provide services that involve cutting, coloring, or styling hair, skin care, nail care, makeup artistry, or related beauty treatments to the public, your state likely requires a cosmetology or specialty license. Many states also regulate where and how you can provide services — such as in a licensed salon or mobile setting — and may require a separate establishment license for business owners. 

📌 Interested in starting your own cosmetology business? Check out these sisters who started a nail salon together.

Basic requirements to getting a cosmetology license

You must be at least sixteen years of age and have a high school diploma or GED to be eligible for a cosmetology license. However, there could be other basic requirements depending on what state you live in, so make sure to research your state’s specific cosmetology license requirements.

📢 Related: Do you need a business license?

Educational requirements to getting a cosmetology license

To obtain a cosmetology license, you need to pass a state board exam and meet certain educational requirements. The specifics of your cosmetology education will vary by state, school, and specialization. In most states, you will have to enroll in an accredited cosmetology school to qualify to take the cosmetology license exam. You can look up exactly how many educational hours your state requires you to complete, but plan on devoting between 1,000 to 2,100 hours.

In some states, like Alaska, you can complete 2,000 hours of an apprenticeship under a licensed cosmetologist instead of enrolling in a cosmetology school.  
If you want to know how to become an esthetician or a nail technician, for example, the educational requirements will most likely be different. You may be able to complete fewer course hours if you choose a specialty.

If you do not choose a specialty, the curriculum typically includes courses in hair cutting, hair styling, facials, manicures, and makeup artistry - to name a few.  

Contents of the cosmetology state board exam

The contents of the exam to obtain a cosmetology license vary by state. Some states only require a written exam, while others require a written and practical exam. In the written exam, there are typically questions on cosmetology terms, safety practices, state-specific laws, and cosmetology theory, such as how to cut hair based on the correct theory.

If your state requires you to take a practical exam, you could be asked to demonstrate your knowledge of hair care and cutting (such as hair relaxers and dyes), how to do waxing and tweezing, massage techniques, as well as sanitation and safety procedures. 

Costs and timeline

Total costs vary widely by state and by the program you choose. School tuition can range from a few thousand dollars to well over $20,000 depending on location, program length, and what’s included. You should also plan for textbooks and kits, application and exam fees, license issuance fees, and renewal fees. If you pursue an apprenticeship, tuition may be lower, but you will still have application, testing, and license fees. From start to finish, many students complete training and licensing in 9 to 18 months, though timing depends on your program schedule, exam availability, and state processing times.

Reciprocity and license transfer

If you move to a new state, reciprocity or endorsement may allow you to obtain a license without retaking full exams, provided you can show proof of education hours, exam results, and an active license in good standing. Some states will issue a license by endorsement if your previous training meets or exceeds their requirements; others may ask you to complete additional hours, take a jurisprudence or law exam, or sit for one or both licensing exams. Start by checking the receiving state’s board website for its reciprocity or endorsement process and gather transcripts, verification letters, and any other documentation early to avoid delays.

Renewal and continuing education

Cosmetology licenses must be renewed on a schedule set by your state — often every one to two years. Some states require continuing education focused on topics like sanitation, health and safety, or updates to state laws. Keep your contact information current with the board so you receive renewal reminders, and track your CE certificates in case of audit. Late renewals can result in fees or a lapse in your ability to work. 

Insurance for cosmetologists

📌 Those who enter the cosmetology field often find themselves as solopreneurs – serving clients in salons, at their clients’ homes, or at their own home. In this case, it is important that you protect your cosmetology business with the proper insurance.

Here are some common reasons that cosmologists get sued and how insurance can help.

1. Lost wages 💰
A hairstylist dyes a client's hair and leaves the treatment on for too long, which results in scalp burns and damage to the hair itself. The client sues for emotional distress, bodily injury from the burns, and loss of wages because she could not return to work for several weeks.  Professional liability insurance could protect you if such a claim is made.

2. Treatment gone wrong ⚠️
A beautician waxes a customer’s eyebrows, and their skin gets severely irritated. The customer has to cancel a modeling job and go to the doctor to get treatment, so they sue the cosmetologist. This is another situation where a professional liability policy could protect you.

3. Personal injury 🗣
A make-up artist went to a bar after work with some friends. After a few drinks, she began talking loudly about a client. The comments were overheard by friends of the client, so word got back to the client, who sued the make-up artist for slander. General liability insurance may protect make-up artists against third-party claims of defamation and slander.

4. Bodily injury 🩹
A customer cuts their foot on a piece of glass from a nail polish bottle that had fallen off the counter and broken in your shop earlier that day. The customer’s foot gets infected, and they end up in the hospital for treatment. The subsequent claim and related medical expenses could be covered by a general liability insurance policy.

5. Damage to client property 🔥
A hairdresser is asked to perform on-site services for the bridal party of a wedding at her client's home. While there, her equipment malfunctions and starts a small fire. The client sues for damages to her home and mental distress. General liability insurance may protect the hairdresser against third-party claims for property damage, bodily injury and related medical costs, up to the policy’s limits.

Unlock the beauty of peace of mind with cosmetology business insurance from Hiscox. See how we can help safeguard your dreams, get a quote today.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get a cosmetology license?  

The timeline depends on your state’s required hours and your schedule. Many fulltime students finish school in 9 to 12 months and add a few weeks to a few months for testing and licensing. Parttime programs and apprenticeships take longer but can offer more flexibility.

How much does it cost to become a cosmetologist?  

Costs vary by state and program. Tuition can range from a few thousand dollars to $20,000 or more, with additional expenses for books, kits, application and exam fees, and license issuance and renewal. Apprenticeships can reduce tuition but still involve licensing costs.

Can I get licensed through an apprenticeship instead of school?  

In some states, yes. Apprenticeships must be registered and supervised by qualified licensees and typically require more total hours than a school program. Check your state board for eligibility and documentation requirements.

Do I have to take a practical exam?  

Most states require both a written and a practical exam. A few may accept out-of-state exam results or offer alternatives in limited circumstances, but you should assume you will need to pass both unless your board says otherwise.

Can I transfer my cosmetology license to another state?  

Many states offer reciprocity or endorsement, but the process and criteria differ. You may need to verify your education hours and previous license, take a law exam, or complete additional training if your prior requirements do not match the new state’s standards.

How often do I need to renew my license, and is continuing education required?  

Renewal cycles and CE requirements are set by each state. Many states renew every one or two years; some require specific CE hours, while others do not. Always confirm with your board to avoid a lapse.

What is cosmetology insurance and why do I need it?

Cosmetology insurance packages policies like general liability and professional liability to protect you from client injuries, property damage, and service-related claims. It’s not usually needed for licensure, but salons, suites, venues, and landlords often require proof before you can work.

What does cosmetology insurance cover?

General liability covers third party injuries and property damage (like a client slip and fall). Professional liability covers claims your service caused harm (like chemical burns or allergic reactions), with options to add property, tools, and cyber coverage.

Is insurance required to get a cosmetology license?

Typically, no — state boards don’t require insurance for licensure. However, many workplaces and landlords require it as a condition to rent a chair, sign a lease, or work events.