Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in California, 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 California
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
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Barbering and Cosmetology
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$39,370 median (12% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#12 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 California
With a median salary of 39,370, Cosmetologists in California earn 12% above the national median of $35,250. California ranks #12 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$39,370Hourly estimate
$18.9312% above national median
Difference: +$4,120
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#12 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $39,370 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $35,760 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $29,690 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $35,220 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 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
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Barbering and Cosmetology
2420 Del Paso Road, Suite 100, Sacramento, CA, 95834
Phone: 8009525210
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $36,590 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $36,390 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $48,430 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $35,000 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in California?
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 California?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in California is 39,370. Salaries range from $34,690 (10th percentile) to $75,100 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in California compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in California earn 12% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 39,370.
How many Cosmetologists work in California?
California employs approximately 21,510 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to California 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 California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. Review agency details at https://www.barbercosmo.ca.gov/.