Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MS Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Mississippi
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Mississippi, 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 Mississippi
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
MS Board of Cosmetology
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$28,360 median (20% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#47 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 Mississippi
With a median salary of 28,360, Cosmetologists in Mississippi earn 20% below the national median of $35,250. Mississippi ranks #47 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$28,360Hourly estimate
$13.6320% below national median
Difference: -$6,890
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#47 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mississippi | $28,360 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $29,170 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $29,660 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $23,470 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $26,450 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Alabama | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- 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
MS Board of Cosmetology
P.O. Box 55689, Jackson, MS, 39296-5689
Phone: 6013591820
Related Careers in Mississippi
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $24,110 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $42,010 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $42,510 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $42,370 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Mississippi?
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 Mississippi?
Mississippi lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Mississippi?
The board typically expects Degree required for Cosmetologist licensure in Mississippi.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Mississippi?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Mississippi is 28,360. Salaries range from $17,220 (10th percentile) to $62,990 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Mississippi compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Mississippi earn 20% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 28,360.
How many Cosmetologists work in Mississippi?
Mississippi employs approximately 910 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Mississippi 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 Mississippi?
The licensing agency is MS Board of Cosmetology. Review agency details at https://www.msbc.ms.gov/.