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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Alabama
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
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 Alabama eligibility requirements for Cosmetologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Alabama State Board of Cosmetology & Barbering and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.9%Average Weekly Wage
$1,201Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $29,170 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $30,790 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Florida | $29,760 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Mississippi | $28,360 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Florida | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Mississippi | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $35,710 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $48,960 | Varies by state board | 1-19 years |
| Nail Technician | $27,980 | Degree required | 19 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Alabama?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in Alabama?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.