Application Fee
See agencyVerified by DE Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Delaware
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Delaware, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Delaware
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Delaware Department of State • Division of Professional Regulation • Board of Cosmetology and Barbering
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$30,980 median (12% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#34 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 Delaware
With a median salary of 30,980, Cosmetologists in Delaware earn 12% below the national median of $35,250. Delaware ranks #34 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$30,980Hourly estimate
$14.8912% below national median
Difference: -$4,270
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#34 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | $30,980 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $36,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $29,680 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $44,110 | Specific course required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Jersey | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Delaware Department of State • Division of Professional Regulation • Board of Cosmetology and Barbering
Cannon Building, 861 Silver Lake Blvd., STE. 203, Dover, DE, 19904-2467
Phone: 3027444500
Related Careers in Delaware
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $38,960 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $47,310 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $53,920 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $28,480 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Delaware?
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 Delaware?
Delaware lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Delaware?
The board typically expects Degree required for Cosmetologist licensure in Delaware.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Delaware?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Delaware is 30,980. Salaries range from $27,560 (10th percentile) to $87,300 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Delaware compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Delaware earn 12% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 30,980.
How many Cosmetologists work in Delaware?
Delaware employs approximately 1,340 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Delaware from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Cosmetologists in Delaware?
The licensing agency is Delaware Department of State / Division of Professional Regulation / Board of Cosmetology and Barbering. Review agency details at https://dpr.delaware.gov/boards/cosmetology/.