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Cosmetologist Licensing in Louisiana

Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Louisiana, including See agency and board contact links.

Last verified: Feb 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

Third-party exam required

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Louisiana

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Stand-alone license
  • Education: Specific course required
  • Examination: Third-party exam required
  • Application Fee: See agency
  • Experience: Work experience required
  • Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
  • Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $23,470 median (33% below national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #50 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
  2. 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
  3. 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
  4. 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.

Salary Insights in Louisiana

With a median salary of 23,470, Cosmetologists in Louisiana earn 33% below the national median of $35,250. Louisiana ranks #50 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.

Median annual salary

$23,470

Hourly estimate

$11.28
33% below national median

Difference: -$11,780

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$17,830
  • P2525th percentile$21,190
  • P50Median$23,470
  • P7575th percentile$29,590
  • P9090th percentile$46,720

State vs National Median

State: $23,470
National: $35,250

Total employment: 2,390 | Annual openings: N/A

Cosmetologist Salary Ranking

#50 of 50 statesfor Cosmetologist median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1Washington58,920
#2Hawaii52,000
#3Vermont49,640
#4South Dakota49,050
#5Maine48,480

Nearby States Comparison

Cosmetologist licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
Louisiana$23,470Specific course requiredThird-party exam required6-24 months
Arkansas$26,450Specific course requiredState exam required6-24 months
Mississippi$28,360Degree requiredState exam required6-24 months
Texas$28,370Specific course requiredState exam required6-24 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.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
Louisiana50LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Arkansas68MediumState-specific exam conditions may apply.
Mississippi50LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Texas50LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
  • License status indicator: Active.
  • Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
  • Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Official Licensing Agency

Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology

11622 Sun Belt Court, Baton Rouge, LA, 70809

Phone: 2257563404

Related Careers in Louisiana

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Barber$49,850Specific course required6-24 months
Esthetician$41,340Degree required6-24 months
Massage Therapist$58,010Specific course required6-24 months
Nail Technician$29,100Degree required6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Louisiana?

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 Louisiana?

Louisiana lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.

What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Louisiana?

The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in Louisiana.

What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Louisiana?

The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Louisiana is 23,470. Salaries range from $17,830 (10th percentile) to $46,720 (90th percentile).

How does the Cosmetologist salary in Louisiana compare to the national average?

Cosmetologists in Louisiana earn 33% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 23,470.

How many Cosmetologists work in Louisiana?

Louisiana employs approximately 2,390 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.

Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Louisiana from another state?

Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Who is the licensing agency for Cosmetologists in Louisiana?

The licensing agency is Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology. Review agency details at https://www.lsbc.louisiana.gov/.