How To Get A Cosmetology License In Ohio

If you have a passion for keeping up with the latest trends in make-up and fashion, then, a career as a cosmetologist might be good for you.

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What Does a Cosmetologist Do?

Cosmetologists often work as estheticians/beauticians, nail technicians, hairdressers or electrologists etc. in beauty salons and spas. A typical job description of a cosmetologist includes:

• Examining hair, face and nails to recommend treatments accordingly.
• Discussing hair or nail-styles with clients to find the best possible solution.
• Washing, coloring, conditioning or styling the clients’ hair.
• Cleaning and sanitizing all tools and workstations after completing a treatment.
• Enhancing clients’ appearance etc.

Apart from the above-mentioned duties, cosmetologists who run their own salons or spas usually manage:

• Hiring and firing of their staff.
• Maintaining records of all business.
• Inventory and stock of products.
• Ordering supplies.
• Scheduling of appointments etc.

 

How to Become a Cosmetologist in Ohio?

Becoming a cosmetologist in Ohio is a 3-step process.

 

1. Attend an Accredited Cosmetology School

To become a cosmetologist in Ohio, the interested individuals must obtain at least 1,500 hours of cosmetology education from an accredited school such as, the Elite School of Cosmetology. The curriculum of cosmetology education prepares students in the areas of Hairstyling, Skincare, Waxing and Nail Art etc.

 

2. Take the State Board Exam to Get the License

Residents of Ohio who want to become a cosmetologist must take the written and practical exam conducted by the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology (OSBC).

 

3. Obtain a License

Passing the exam conducted by the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology (OSBC) with at least a 70% score allows you to apply for a license.

 

What Type of License Do I Need as a Cosmetologist in Ohio?

The Ohio State Board of Cosmetology provides 2 types of licenses to cosmetologists.

Individual (Native) License

Apart from completing cosmetology education from an accredited school in Ohio, you must fulfill the following 4 requirements to get this license.

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Have at least a school diploma or equivalent.
• Complete 1,500 hours of cosmetology education.
• Clear the written and practical exam conducted by the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology (OSBC).

Reciprocity License
If you completed your cosmetology education from outside Ohio, or you just moved to Ohio as a professional cosmetologist, the Reciprocity License is perfect for you. To acquire this license, you need to possess at least 1,500 hours of cosmetology education/work experience. The Ohio State Board of Cosmetology (OSBC) may allow the following 3 adjustments:

• Adjustment of Work Experience: If you have completed 1,000 hours of cosmetology education, you may be granted 100 hours of work credit for every year of professional work in the field.
• Adjustment of Apprenticeship/Traineeship: In case you completed 1,500 hours of Apprenticeship/Traineeship, they might be credited by the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology (OSBC).
• Re-examination Adjustment: You need to pass the OSBC exam with at least a 70% score if you had a license in your home state that meets the minimum requirements of the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology (OSBC) with a few missing requirements.

 

How Much Can I Make as a Cosmetologist in Ohio?

 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the annual mean income for Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists in Ohio from 2016 to 2018, as:

 

 

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

 

This salary chart shows a gradual and stable increase in the annual mean salary of Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists in the state of Ohio from 2016 to 2018.

 

Career Outlook of a Cosmetologist

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has predicted a rise of 8% in employment for Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists over the decade from 2018 to 2028. This employment growth rate is reported to be much faster than the average for other occupations.