Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MD Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Maryland
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Maryland, 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 Maryland
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Maryland Department of Labor • State Board of Cosmetology
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$36,440 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#19 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 Maryland
With a median salary of 36,440, Cosmetologists in Maryland earn 3% above the national median of $35,250. Maryland ranks #19 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$36,440Hourly estimate
$17.523% above national median
Difference: +$1,190
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#19 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $36,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $29,680 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $30,980 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 54 | Low | 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. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Maryland Department of Labor • State Board of Cosmetology
1100 N Eutaw Street, Baltimore, MD, 21201
Phone: 4102306190
Related Careers in Maryland
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $46,530 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $46,420 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $58,390 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $36,380 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Maryland?
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 is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Maryland?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Maryland is 36,440. Salaries range from $31,200 (10th percentile) to $61,610 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Maryland compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Maryland earn 3% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 36,440.
How many Cosmetologists work in Maryland?
Maryland employs approximately 5,900 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Maryland from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Cosmetologists in Maryland?
The licensing agency is Maryland Department of Labor / State Board of Cosmetology. Review agency details at https://www.dllr.state.md.us/license/cos/.