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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Preliminary/temporary license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
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 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 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 6-24 months.
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 | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $31,480 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $29,440 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $31,150 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $37,850 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $29,170 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $30,390 | Degree 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. |
| Ohio | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | 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
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 | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $26,360 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $54,890 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $60,950 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Kentucky?
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 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. 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Commonwealth of Kentucky / Board of Cosmetology. Review agency details at http://kbc.ky.gov/.