Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MO Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Missouri
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Missouri, 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 Missouri
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
Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance • Division Of Professional Registration • Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$30,390 median (14% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#38 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 Missouri
With a median salary of 30,390, Cosmetologists in Missouri earn 14% below the national median of $35,250. Missouri ranks #38 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$30,390Hourly estimate
$14.6114% below national median
Difference: -$4,860
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#38 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri | $30,390 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $37,850 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $34,800 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $32,170 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $29,170 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $26,450 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $30,680 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kansas | $34,740 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $39,190 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri | 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. |
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 54 | 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. |
| 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
Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance • Division Of Professional Registration • Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners
3605 Missouri Boulevard, P.O. Box 1062, Jefferson City, MO, 65102-1062
Phone: 5737511052ext8007352966
Related Careers in Missouri
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $44,390 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $49,410 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $66,870 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $38,950 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Missouri?
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 Missouri?
Missouri lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Missouri?
The board typically expects Degree required for Cosmetologist licensure in Missouri.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Missouri?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Missouri is 30,390. Salaries range from $26,600 (10th percentile) to $73,050 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Missouri compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Missouri earn 14% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 30,390.
How many Cosmetologists work in Missouri?
Missouri employs approximately 5,470 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Missouri 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 Missouri?
The licensing agency is Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance / Division Of Professional Registration / Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. Review agency details at http://pr.mo.gov/cosbar.asp.