Your Beauty Career Starts Here.

  • » Get licensed in 12 to 18 months
  • Move from the classroom to the salon in less than two years

  • » Full time and part time classes
  • Flexible class schedules to help deal with your busy life

  • » Be a part of a $60 billion dollar industry
  • The industry is growing at a rapid rate and is in need of beauty professionals

Create Your Free Account

Create your free account in less than 30 seconds!

California Cosmetology Licensing Requirements

In order to obtain a license in Cosmetology, Esthetics, Nail Technology, Barbering, or Electrology in the state of California, individuals must have completed the requirements listed below. Other requirements may apply.
Cosmetologist: 1600 hours
Esthetician: 600 hours
Manicurist: 400 hours
Barber: 1500 hours
Electrologist: 600 Hours
All applicants must be at least 17 years of age and have completed the 10th grade in the California public schools its equivalent. Other conditions may apply – please see web site or contact the state for more information.
Licensing Fee Schedule: (Fees subject to change)

Cosmetologist: Initial $51, Duplicate $11, Renewal $41, Late Renewal $61
Barber: Initial $51, Duplicate License Fee $11, Renewal Fee $41Late Renewal Fee $61
Electrologist: Initial $51, Duplicate License Fees $11, Renewal Fee $41, Late Renewal Fee $61
Manicurist: Initial $36, Duplicate License Fee $11, Renewal Fee $41, Late Renewal Fee $61
Esthetician: Initial $41, Duplicate License Fee $11, Renewal Fee $41, Late Renewal Fee $61

Continuing Education Requirements:

Reciprocity:
No reciprocity is available. Individuals will need to take a written exam and a practical exam. Barbers will also need to take both a written and a practical examination.

Contact Information:
California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology
P.O. Box 944226
Sacramento, CA 94244-2260
1-800-952-5210 (phone)
916-575-7281 (fax)
www.barbercosmo.ca.gov