Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Illinois, 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 Illinois
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: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$34,800 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#25 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 Illinois
With a median salary of 34,800, Cosmetologists in Illinois earn 1% below the national median of $35,250. Illinois ranks #25 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$34,800Hourly estimate
$16.731% below national median
Difference: -$450
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#25 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $34,800 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $36,550 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $37,850 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $30,390 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $32,170 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $31,480 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
320 West Washington, Springfield, IL, 62786
Phone: 2177828556
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $36,300 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $38,580 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $60,640 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $34,520 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Illinois?
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 Illinois?
Illinois lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Illinois?
The board typically expects Degree required for Cosmetologist licensure in Illinois.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Illinois is 34,800. Salaries range from $29,120 (10th percentile) to $62,610 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Illinois earn 1% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 34,800.
How many Cosmetologists work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 13,770 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Illinois from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Cosmetologists in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.idfpr.com/.