Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Preliminary/temporary license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Cosmetology
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$32,170 median (9% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#31 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Kentucky 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 Commonwealth of Kentucky~Board of Cosmetology and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of $32,170, Cosmetologists in Kentucky earn 9% below the national median of $35,250. Kentucky ranks #31 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$32,170Hourly estimate
$15.479% below national median
Difference: -$3,080
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#31 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $32,170 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $31,480 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $29,440 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $31,150 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $37,850 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $29,170 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $30,390 | Degree 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Indiana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Ohio | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| West Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 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
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Cosmetology
111 St. James Court, Suite A, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5025644262
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $48,930 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $26,360 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $54,890 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $60,950 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
Kentucky lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Kentucky is $32,170. Salaries range from $21,140 (10th percentile) to $96,670 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Kentucky earn 9% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of $32,170.
How many Cosmetologists work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 2,030 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Commonwealth of Kentucky / Board of Cosmetology. Review agency details at http://kbc.ky.gov/.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in Kentucky?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.