Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AL Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Alabama
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Alabama, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Alabama
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Alabama State Board of Cosmetology & Barbering
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$29,660 median (16% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#42 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Alabama
With a median salary of 29,660, Cosmetologists in Alabama earn 16% below the national median of $35,250. Alabama ranks #42 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$29,660Hourly estimate
$14.2616% below national median
Difference: -$5,590
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#42 of 50 statesfor Cosmetologist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 58,920 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 52,000 |
| #3 | Vermont | 49,640 |
| #4 | South Dakota | 49,050 |
| #5 | Maine | 48,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
Cosmetologist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $29,660 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $29,170 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $30,790 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Florida | $29,760 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $28,360 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 19 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Florida | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Alabama State Board of Cosmetology & Barbering
P.O. Box 301750, Montgomery, AL, 36130
Phone: 3342421918
Related Careers in Alabama
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $27,850 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $35,710 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $48,960 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $27,980 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Alabama?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Cosmetologists in Alabama?
Alabama lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Alabama?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in Alabama.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Alabama?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Alabama is 29,660. Salaries range from $15,740 (10th percentile) to $49,710 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Alabama compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Alabama earn 16% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 29,660.
How many Cosmetologists work in Alabama?
Alabama employs approximately 3,170 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Alabama from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Cosmetologists in Alabama?
The licensing agency is Alabama State Board of Cosmetology & Barbering. Review agency details at https://www.aboc.alabama.gov/.