Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ME Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Maine
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Maine, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Maine
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Tied to business
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Maine Department of Professional & Financial Regulation • Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,480 median (38% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#5 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 Maine
With a median salary of 48,480, Cosmetologists in Maine earn 38% above the national median of $35,250. Maine ranks #5 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,220Median annual salary
$48,480Hourly estimate
$23.3138% above national median
Difference: +$13,230
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#5 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maine | $48,480 | No educational requirements | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $42,000 | Specific course required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maine | 64 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| New Hampshire | 54 | Low | 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
Maine Department of Professional & Financial Regulation • Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation
Gardiner Annex/ 76 Northern Ave, 35 State House Station, Augusta, ME, 04333-0035
Phone: 2076248603
Related Careers in Maine
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $36,460 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $73,500 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $67,420 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $49,430 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Maine?
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 education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Maine?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Cosmetologist licensure in Maine.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Maine?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Maine is 48,480. Salaries range from $30,730 (10th percentile) to $74,160 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Maine compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Maine earn 38% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 48,480.
How many Cosmetologists work in Maine?
Maine employs approximately 820 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Maine 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 Maine?
The licensing agency is Maine Department of Professional & Financial Regulation / Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.maine.gov/pfr/professionallicensing/index.shtml.