Cosmetology License California
To become a cosmetologist in California, you will have to meet a certain set of requirements. This does not just include getting an education or a license but also includes having the key skills required to thrive in the field. Since cosmetologists usually work on their feet all day, they are required to have better physical stamina than the average person. Cosmetologists should ideally also have great customer services and time management skills.
Most of the requirements you will have to meet to become a cosmetologist in California are decided by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (CBBC).
Featured Programs and Schools
Requirements to Become a Cosmetologist in California
There are a few general requirements you will have to meet to become a cosmetologist in California. Firstly, you must be at least 16 years old. The age requirement could differ between different colleges and programs. In addition to the age requirement, you will also require a high school diploma and a diploma from a state licensed cosmetology program.
Steps to Become a Cosmetologist in California
There are a few steps you have to complete to become a cosmetologist in California
- Get a high school diploma
One of the first requirements you will have to meet before becoming a cosmetologist is getting a high school diploma. If you are clear about your goal to become a cosmetologist, it is best to start taking high school classes on chemistry and biology. A lot of cosmetologists work with mixing dyes, giving facials and hair treatments, therefore basic knowledge of the human anatomy can be useful.
- Get certified
If you want to become a cosmetologist, you are required to get licensed by a state accredited cosmetology school. Each program will require you to spend a certain amount of time in training to get your certificate. For example, to be a barber, you will need to spend 1,500 hours in training, but to be a manicurist, you only need 600 hours.
- Pass the state exam
You will first have to register for the state exam in California online. Then you will have to take the National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) exam. The exam will be divided into two different sections – written and practical. After passing the exam, you can start working as a cosmetologist in California.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Cosmetologist in California?
Every state requires you to clock in a certain number of hours before you can become a licensed cosmetologist. The amount of time you take to finish a program depends on your student status – whether you are a part time or a full time student. To become an esthetician, you will have to clock in 600 hours. This will take roughly six months as a full time student.
How Much Does a Cosmetologist Make in California?
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, California is the state with the highest level of employment for hair dressers, hair stylists, and cosmetologists. As of May 2018, 33,570 people were employed in this category in California. The annual mean wage in the industry in California was $31,400.