Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MT Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Montana, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Montana
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$38,230 median (8% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#14 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Montana eligibility requirements for Cosmetologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Montana
With a median salary of $38,230, Cosmetologists in Montana earn 8% above the national median of $35,250. Montana ranks #14 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,173Median annual salary
$38,230Hourly estimate
$18.388% above national median
Difference: +$2,980
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#14 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $38,230 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $33,870 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $49,050 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $32,400 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Idaho | $33,820 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| North Dakota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Idaho | 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
Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
301 South Park, 4th Floor, PO Box 200513, Helena, MT, 59620-0513
Phone: 4068412377
Related Careers in Montana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $38,960 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $39,620 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $52,000 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $34,660 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Montana?
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 exams are required for Cosmetologists in Montana?
Montana lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Montana?
The board typically expects Degree required for Cosmetologist licensure in Montana.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Montana?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Montana is $38,230. Salaries range from $22,350 (10th percentile) to $79,870 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Montana compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Montana earn 8% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of $38,230.
How many Cosmetologists work in Montana?
Montana employs approximately 600 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Montana 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 Montana?
The licensing agency is Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists. Review agency details at http://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/cos.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in Montana?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.