Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AZ Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Arizona
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Arizona, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Arizona
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Barbering and Cosmetology Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$35,220 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#23 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 Arizona
With a median salary of 35,220, Cosmetologists in Arizona earn 0% below the national median of $35,250. Arizona ranks #23 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$35,220Hourly estimate
$16.930% above national median
Difference: -$30
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#23 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | $35,220 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $34,960 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $43,680 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $28,150 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $29,690 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| California | $39,370 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Utah | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Colorado | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Barbering and Cosmetology Board
1740 W Adams St, Ste 3011, Phoenix, AZ, 85007
Phone: 6025424498
Related Careers in Arizona
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $32,840 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $46,550 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $59,550 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $34,820 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Arizona?
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 is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Arizona?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Arizona is 35,220. Salaries range from $29,850 (10th percentile) to $56,150 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Arizona compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Arizona earn 0% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 35,220.
How many Cosmetologists work in Arizona?
Arizona employs approximately 7,760 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Arizona from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Cosmetologists in Arizona?
The licensing agency is Barbering and Cosmetology Board. Review agency details at https://barberboard.az.gov/.