Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NE Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Nebraska
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Nebraska, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Nebraska
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Nebraska Dept. of Health and Human Services • Public Health Division, Licensure Unit, Office of Behavioral Health & Consumer Services • Public Health Division, Licensure Unit, Office of Behavioral Health & Consumer Services
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$39,190 median (11% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#13 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 Nebraska
With a median salary of 39,190, Cosmetologists in Nebraska earn 11% above the national median of $35,250. Nebraska ranks #13 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$39,190Hourly estimate
$18.8411% above national median
Difference: +$3,940
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#13 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nebraska | $39,190 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $49,050 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $37,850 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $30,390 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kansas | $34,740 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $43,680 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $32,400 | No educational requirements | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kansas | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Colorado | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Nebraska Dept. of Health and Human Services • Public Health Division, Licensure Unit, Office of Behavioral Health & Consumer Services • Public Health Division, Licensure Unit, Office of Behavioral Health & Consumer Services
P.O. Box 94986, 301 Centennial Mall S, Lincoln, NE, 68509
Phone: 4022242117
Related Careers in Nebraska
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $38,960 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $52,010 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $55,080 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $36,560 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Nebraska?
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 is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Nebraska?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Nebraska is 39,190. Salaries range from $24,960 (10th percentile) to $60,100 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Nebraska compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Nebraska earn 11% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 39,190.
How many Cosmetologists work in Nebraska?
Nebraska employs approximately 1,950 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Nebraska from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Cosmetologists in Nebraska?
The licensing agency is Nebraska Dept. of Health and Human Services / Public Health Division, Licensure Unit, Office of Behavioral Health & Consumer Services / Public Health Division, Licensure Unit, Office of Behavioral Health & Consumer Services. Review agency details at https://dhhs.ne.gov/licensure/pages/professions-and-occupations.aspx.