Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Iowa
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Arts & Sciences
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$37,850 median (7% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#15 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Iowa eligibility requirements for Cosmetologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing~Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Arts & Sciences and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Iowa
With a median salary of $37,850, Cosmetologists in Iowa earn 7% above the national median of $35,250. Iowa ranks #15 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$37,850Hourly estimate
$18.207% above national median
Difference: +$2,600
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#15 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $37,850 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $42,850 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $36,550 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $34,800 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $30,390 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $39,190 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $49,050 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Illinois | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Missouri | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Arts & Sciences
6200 Park Avenue Des Moines, IA 50321, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA, 50319-0075
Phone: 5152810254
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $78,480 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $44,400 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $62,400 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $38,530 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Iowa?
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 Iowa?
Iowa lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Iowa is $37,850. Salaries range from $23,340 (10th percentile) to $67,520 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Iowa earn 7% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of $37,850.
How many Cosmetologists work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 2,870 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Iowa 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 Iowa?
The licensing agency is Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing / Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Arts & Sciences. Review agency details at https://dial.iowa.gov/about/boards/barbering-cosmetology.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in Iowa?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.