Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IN Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Indiana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Indiana, 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 Indiana
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Indiana Professional Licensing Agency • State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$31,480 median (11% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#32 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 Indiana
With a median salary of 31,480, Cosmetologists in Indiana earn 11% below the national median of $35,250. Indiana ranks #32 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$31,480Hourly estimate
$15.1311% below national median
Difference: -$3,770
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#32 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana | $31,480 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $35,720 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $29,440 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $32,170 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $34,800 | Degree 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Michigan | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Illinois | 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
Indiana Professional Licensing Agency • State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners
402 West Washington Street, Room W072, Indianapolis, IN, 46204
Phone: 3172343031
Related Careers in Indiana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $43,590 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $43,900 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $52,740 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $33,090 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Indiana?
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 Indiana?
Indiana lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Indiana?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in Indiana.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Indiana?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Indiana is 31,480. Salaries range from $23,070 (10th percentile) to $55,900 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Indiana compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Indiana earn 11% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 31,480.
How many Cosmetologists work in Indiana?
Indiana employs approximately 6,240 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Indiana 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 Indiana?
The licensing agency is Indiana Professional Licensing Agency / State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.in.gov/pla/cosmo.htm.