Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ID Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Idaho
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Idaho, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Idaho
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
The Idaho State Board of Cosmetologists • Idaho Bureau of Occupational Licenses
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$33,820 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#29 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 Idaho
With a median salary of 33,820, Cosmetologists in Idaho earn 4% below the national median of $35,250. Idaho ranks #29 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.7%Average Weekly Wage
$1,134Median annual salary
$33,820Hourly estimate
$16.264% below national median
Difference: -$1,430
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#29 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | $33,820 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $38,230 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $32,400 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $34,960 | 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 |
| Oregon | $35,760 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Washington | $58,920 | Degree 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Montana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Utah | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
The Idaho State Board of Cosmetologists • Idaho Bureau of Occupational Licenses
700 W. State St., PO Box 83720, Boise, ID, 83720-0063
Phone: 2083343233
Related Careers in Idaho
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $38,960 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $41,230 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $70,470 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $33,260 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Idaho?
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 Idaho?
Idaho lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Idaho?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in Idaho.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Idaho?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Idaho is 33,820. Salaries range from $18,270 (10th percentile) to $36,900 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Idaho compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Idaho earn 4% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 33,820.
How many Cosmetologists work in Idaho?
Idaho employs approximately 1,860 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Idaho 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 Idaho?
The licensing agency is The Idaho State Board of Cosmetologists / Idaho Bureau of Occupational Licenses. Review agency details at http://ibol.idaho.gov/IBOL/.