Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MN Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Minnesota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Minnesota, 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 Minnesota
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
BCE • Minnesota Board of Cosmetologist Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$42,850 median (22% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#10 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 Minnesota
With a median salary of 42,850, Cosmetologists in Minnesota earn 22% above the national median of $35,250. Minnesota ranks #10 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$42,850Hourly estimate
$20.6022% above national median
Difference: +$7,600
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#10 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $42,850 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $36,550 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $37,850 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $49,050 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $33,870 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Dakota | 54 | Low | 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
BCE • Minnesota Board of Cosmetologist Examiners
2829 university Ave SW, Suite 710, Minneapolis, MN, 55414
Phone: 6512012742
Related Careers in Minnesota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $37,250 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $35,410 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $75,500 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $36,140 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Minnesota?
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 Minnesota?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Minnesota is 42,850. Salaries range from $24,530 (10th percentile) to $62,530 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Minnesota compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Minnesota earn 22% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 42,850.
How many Cosmetologists work in Minnesota?
Minnesota employs approximately 5,230 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
The licensing agency is BCE / Minnesota Board of Cosmetologist Examiners. Review agency details at http://www.bceboard.state.mn.us/.