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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Indiana
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
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 Indiana eligibility requirements for Cosmetologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Indiana Professional Licensing Agency~State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,201Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Michigan | $35,720 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $29,440 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $32,170 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $34,800 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Michigan | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Ohio | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Kentucky | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Illinois | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $43,900 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $52,740 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $33,090 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Indiana?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, 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. 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.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in Indiana?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.