To obtain a cosmetology license in California, there are several key requirements that must be met. These include completing a Board-approved cosmetology program, applying for exams, passing written and practical exams, submitting an application, and fulfilling work experience hours. Keep reading for a detailed overview of the cosmetology license requirements in California.
Complete a Board-Approved Cosmetology Program
The first major requirement is completing a Board-approved cosmetology program in California. These programs consist of 1600 hours of cosmetology training at a California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology approved school. The coursework covers topics like hair styling, cutting, coloring, texture services, manicures, pedicures, facials, makeup application, health and safety procedures, and more. Students get hands-on practice in a professional salon setting under instructor supervision.
Approved cosmetology schools provide the required curriculum and training facilities. Public community colleges, private cosmetology academies, and adult education centers typically offer these programs. After completing the program, the school will provide documentation of your training hours to submit with your exam and license applications.
Apply for the Licensing Exams
After completing your cosmetology program, the next requirement is to submit applications and fees to take the written and practical licensing exams. There are two parts to the cosmetology exam in California:
- Cosmetologist Written Exam – This is a one hour multiple-choice test on health and safety topics covered in the cosmetology curriculum. It costs $52 to take this computerized exam.
- Cosmetologist Practical Exam – This test evaluates hands-on skills and techniques. It costs $73 and takes about two hours to complete while being observed by examiners.
You can submit applications online through the Board’s website or via mail. The Board will notify you of your exam date, time, and location after processing your paperwork and fees. Exams are administered daily throughout California.
Pass the Licensing Exams
To qualify for a cosmetology license, you must pass both the written and practical exams. Here are some tips and details about this requirement:
- You must score at least 75% to pass the Cosmetologist Written Exam.
- The Cosmetologist Practical Exam is graded on each required procedure. You must earn a passing score on each section.
- If you fail any part of the exams, you can retake them after applying and paying re-examination fees.
- Practical exam procedures are evaluated on compliance with health and safety standards. Review these before your test date.
- For the written exam, study using your textbook and class notes. Focus on sanitation, disinfection, health and safety protocols.
- The Board provides a practical exam guide and fact sheet on their website to help you prepare.
With practice and studying, you can pass these licensing exams. Failing portions just requires reapplying and retaking them until you pass.
Submit a Cosmetology License Application
After passing both licensing exams, you must complete and submit an Application for Initial License along with required documentation. Here are the steps involved in this process:
- Complete the application form. The Board’s website has printable PDF versions available.
- Enclose the exam fees. The license fee is $50.
- Submit Proof of Training. Have your cosmetology school provide documentation showing you completed the 1600 hour Board-approved training program.
- Include Exam Results. The testing vendor will report your exam results directly to the Board.
- Provide Identification. Include a copy of your U.S. driver’s license, passport, social security card, or documents provided by the Department of Homeland Security.
- Mail your application package to the Board’s address listed on the form.
The Board will review your application and notify you by mail if any items are missing. Once approved, they will issue your cosmetology license. This license must be renewed every two years before expiration.
Fulfill Work Experience Requirement
There is one final requirement after receiving your initial cosmetology license in California. You must complete at least 60 hours of salon work experience before being able to renew the license for the first time. This hands-on experience ensures you can apply what you learned in school in a real-world setting. Here are some tips for earning these hours:
- Find a licensed cosmetologist to supervise your work experience. This is often your school instructor.
- Work during weekends, evenings, summers, or part-time to earn hours while still in school.
- The experience must involve compensated cosmetology services like hair, nails, makeup, facials, etc.
- Your supervisor must submit a Certification of Work Experience form when you complete 60 hours.
- If self-employed, submit your own Certification of Work Experience after completing the hours.
This work requirement allows you to reinforce your skills and learn from seasoned professionals when starting out. You can begin accruing hours immediately after passing the exams.
Maintaining Your Cosmetology License
Once issued, you must renew your California cosmetology license every two years. To renew, you must:
- Complete the License Renewal Application form
- Pay $50 renewal fee
- Meet continuing education requirements:
- Licensees providing services need 6 hours of continuing education.
- Inactive licensees need 4 hours.
You can complete online or in-person continuing education courses to fulfill the renewal requirements. Renewing on time keeps your license active and allows ongoing work as a licensed cosmetologist.
Transferring an Out-of-State Cosmetology License
If you hold a current cosmetology license in another state, you can transfer it to California by following these steps:
- Verify your home state license is current and you completed at least 1600 hours of board-approved training.
- Obtain a Licensure Verification Form from your home state board.
- Complete and submit the Application for Reciprocity to California.
- Pay $75 in licensing and exam fees.
- Pass the California Law & Regulations exam.
- Once approved, you will be issued a California cosmetology license.
This allows you to work as a licensed cosmetologist if relocating from another state. Some states have reciprocal agreements with California to simplify transfers.
Specialty Licenses
Instead of a full cosmetology license, California offers specialty licenses if you only want to provide particular services like:
- Barbering – Requires 1500 hours of training and exams.
- Skin Care – Requires 600 hours esthetics training and exams.
- Nail Care – Requires 350 hours manicurist training and exams.
- Electrology – Requires 600 hours electrology training and exams.
The application process is similar to the cosmetology license. Check with the Board for details on education requirements, exams, and forms for each specialty license type.
Conclusion
Becoming a licensed cosmetologist in California involves training, exams, applications, and on-the-job hours. Key steps include:
- Completing a 1600-hour Board-approved cosmetology program
- Passing the written and practical licensing exams
- Submitting your license application and documents
- Completing 60 hours of supervised work experience
- Renewing your license every two years
If currently licensed in another state, you can apply for reciprocity in California by submitting verification of your training hours and exams. Various specialty license options are also available. By meeting these requirements and following the application process, you can become a licensed cosmetologist in California.
