Application Fee
See agencyVerified by GA Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Georgia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Georgia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Georgia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Any conviction is prohibited
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Georgia State Board of Cosmetology
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$30,790 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#35 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 Georgia
With a median salary of 30,790, Cosmetologists in Georgia earn 13% below the national median of $35,250. Georgia ranks #35 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$30,790Hourly estimate
$14.8013% below national median
Difference: -$4,460
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#35 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | $30,790 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $29,170 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $36,140 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $29,120 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Florida | $29,760 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $29,660 | Specific course 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | 19 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Florida | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Alabama | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: No new Licenses.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Georgia State Board of Cosmetology
237 Coliseum Drive, Macon, GA, 31217-3858
Phone: 4782072440
Related Careers in Georgia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $47,630 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $42,340 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $56,740 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $26,500 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Georgia?
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 Georgia?
Georgia lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Georgia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Cosmetologist licensure in Georgia.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Georgia?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Georgia is 30,790. Salaries range from $20,990 (10th percentile) to $79,050 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Georgia compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Georgia earn 13% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 30,790.
How many Cosmetologists work in Georgia?
Georgia employs approximately 6,850 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Georgia from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: No new Licenses. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Cosmetologists in Georgia?
The licensing agency is Georgia State Board of Cosmetology. Review agency details at https://sos.ga.gov/index.php/licensing.