Massachusetts Cosmetology License Information

In order to obtain a license in Barbering, Cosmetology, Nail Technology, Esthetics, or Electrology in the state of Massachusetts, individuals must complete the requirements listed below. Other requirements may apply.

Cosmetologist: 1000 hours
Esthetician: 300 hours
Nail Technician: 100 hours
Electrology: 1100 hours
Barber: 1000 hours

Continuing Education Requirements:

Reciprocity:

Massachusetts Law states:
Section 87Z. The board may register, without examination, any hairdresser, operator, manicurist or aesthetician who has been registered as such under the laws of another state, which, in the opinion of the board, maintains a standard substantially equivalent to that of the commonwealth, and in which hairdressers, operators, manicurists or aestheticians registered in the commonwealth are given like recognition, upon payment of the fee prescribed in section 87 CC. Any person who has completed in another state, or in a school in the commonwealth supported by public funds, a course of professional training, substantially equivalent to that required by section 87 V, and who, after application accompanied by an examination fee as prescribed in section 87 CC for a first examination, or a fee as prescribed in said section 87 CC for a second or subsequent examination, passes an examination satisfactory to the board, may be registered by the board as an operator.

Contact Information:

Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure
239 Causeway Street
Boston, MA 02114
617-727-9940
Board of Registration of Cosmetologists – Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation
http://www.mass.gov/ocabr/licensee/dpl-boards/hd/