How Long Does It Take to Get a Cosmetology License?

Quick Answer

Getting a cosmetology license typically takes 9–24 months, depending on the state's required training hours and whether the program is completed full-time or part-time. Most states require between 1,000 and 2,100 hours of cosmetology school before candidates can sit for the licensing exam.

State-by-State Hour Requirements

Required training hours vary significantly by state. Here are some representative examples:

State	Required Hours	Full-Time Duration	Part-Time Duration
New York	1,000	6–9 months	12–15 months
Texas	1,000	7–10 months	12–16 months
California	1,600	10–12 months	16–20 months
Florida	1,200	8–10 months	14–18 months
Illinois	1,500	9–12 months	15–20 months
Oregon	2,300	14–18 months	20–24 months
South Dakota	2,100	12–16 months	18–24 months
Georgia	1,500	9–12 months	15–20 months

Steps to Getting Licensed

1. Complete Cosmetology School (9–20 months)

Enroll in a state-approved cosmetology program. Full-time students typically attend 30–40 hours per week, while part-time students attend 15–20 hours per week. Curriculum covers hair cutting and styling, coloring, skincare, nail care, sanitation, and business management.

2. Accumulate Required Hours

Track training hours carefully. Many schools offer clinical hours where students practice on real clients under supervision. Some states allow apprenticeship hours to count toward the total requirement.

3. Pass the Licensing Exam (1–4 weeks)

Most states require both a written exam and a practical skills exam. The written portion covers safety, sanitation, and theory. The practical portion tests hands-on skills like hair cutting, chemical services, and nail care. Exam scheduling and results typically take 1–4 weeks.

4. Apply for Your License (2–6 weeks)

After passing the exam, submit the license application to the state board of cosmetology. Processing times range from 2–6 weeks depending on the state.

Factors That Affect the Timeline

Factor	Impact on Timeline
Full-time vs. part-time enrollment	Part-time adds 6–12 months
State hour requirements	Low (1,000 hrs) vs. high (2,300 hrs)
Apprenticeship route	Some states allow this, may take longer
Exam preparation time	2–8 weeks of additional study
Exam pass rate	Failing requires rescheduling (4–8 week delay)
Application processing	2–6 weeks after passing

Cost Overview

Cosmetology school tuition ranges from $5,000–$20,000 depending on the program and location. Additional costs include exam fees ($50–$200), license application fees ($25–$100), and supplies/equipment ($500–$1,500).

Apprenticeship Alternative

Some states, including Indiana, Montana, and Nebraska, offer an apprenticeship path. This route typically requires more hours (often 1.5x–2x the school requirement) but allows earning while learning. Apprenticeships generally take 18–36 months to complete.

Tips for Faster Completion

• Choose a full-time program to finish in the shortest time
• Select a state with lower hour requirements if location is flexible
• Study for the licensing exam while still in school
• Schedule the exam as soon as eligible to avoid delays
• Ensure all paperwork is complete before submitting the application