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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Montana
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party 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
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $33,870 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $49,050 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $32,400 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Idaho | $33,820 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Dakota | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- 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
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 | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $39,620 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $52,000 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $34,660 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Montana?
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 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. 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 Montana?
The licensing agency is Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists. Review agency details at http://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/cos.