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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Minnesota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
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 Minnesota eligibility requirements for Cosmetologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to BCE~Minnesota Board of Cosmetologist Examiners and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,407Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $36,550 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $37,850 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $49,050 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $33,870 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Iowa | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Dakota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $35,410 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $75,500 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $36,140 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Minnesota?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in Minnesota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.