How Do You Become A Licensed Cosmetologist?

Regardless of where you are in the U.S, it is necessary that you get a license to practice as a cosmetologist. To get a license, first you have to complete a cosmetology program from an accredited school and then you have to pass the state cosmetology exam. This exam will have a written and a practical section, where both your knowledge of the industry and your skill will be tested.
In addition to this, you may also be required to give an oral exam.
After clearing the state’s licensing exam, you will become a licensed cosmetologist and can apply for jobs in the field. However, you will be required to take CEU’s (Continuing Education Units) to keep up to date with the industry.
For those who want to learn about how to become a licensed cosmetologist, the following guide will be of great use.

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How to Become a Professional Cosmetologist?

To become a professional cosmetologist, you have to make sure you keep working on your portfolio and brush up on your skills by getting CEU’S (Continuing Education Units). In addition to this, you must keep up with industry trends and service your clients well. If you plan on opening up your own salon, you should also be well versed in marketing tactics and take courses in business management and more.

How Many Years to Become a Cosmetologist?

After getting your high school diploma, it could take anywhere from a few months to a couple of years to get a certificate in cosmetology. The duration of your program will depend on three distinct factors:

  • The state you live in
  • Your student status
  • Your specialization

Each specialization will require you to put in a different amount of hours. On average, it takes about 1,500 to 1,600 hours to graduate from beauty school, and the rest depends on your specialty;

  • 300 – 600 hours for nail technology
  • 500 for artist electrology program
  • 300 – 1,500 hours for esthetics skin care program

How to Become a Master Cosmetologist?

There are a few steps you will have to follow to become a master cosmetologist:

  • Get a high school diploma
  • Graduate from an accredited beauty school
  • Clear the states cosmetology exam
  • Get at least one year of work experience

After having met these requirements, you can start your career as a master cosmetologist. Master cosmetologists require five semesters of studying and hence take around 2 to 3 years to complete.

How Much Do Licensed Cosmetologists Make?

According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists make an annual median wage of $24,830 per year and $11.94 per hours. Growth of job prospects in the industry is much higher than average at 13% and 87,600 new jobs are expected to become available between 2016 and 2026.