Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State 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
- Licensing Authority
Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering • Division of Professional Licensure
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$47,740 median (35% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#6 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 Massachusetts
With a median salary of 47,740, Cosmetologists in Massachusetts earn 35% above the national median of $35,250. Massachusetts ranks #6 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$47,740Hourly estimate
$22.9535% above national median
Difference: +$12,490
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#6 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $47,740 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $42,000 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $49,640 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $33,960 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $37,070 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Rhode Island | $30,510 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Hampshire | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 74 | Medium | Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Connecticut | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Rhode Island | 54 | Low | State-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
Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering • Division of Professional Licensure
1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, MA, 02114
Phone: 6177279940
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $48,990 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $45,600 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $59,470 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $34,180 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts?
Massachusetts lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Massachusetts?
The board typically expects Degree required for Cosmetologist licensure in Massachusetts.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Massachusetts is 47,740. Salaries range from $31,790 (10th percentile) to $70,670 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Massachusetts earn 35% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 47,740.
How many Cosmetologists work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 9,210 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering / Division of Professional Licensure. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/ocabr/licensee/dpl-boards/hd/.