Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NH Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in New Hampshire
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in New Hampshire, 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 New Hampshire
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- Must be of good professional character
- Complete high school or its equivalent
- Receive training of a minimum of 1,500 hours of training in a school of cosmetology approved by the Board; or a minimum of 3,000 hours distributed over a period of at least 18 months under a licensed cosmetologist
- Pass an examination conducted by the Board
- Pay a fee established by the Board
Written and practical examinations required
Not required
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Apprentice registration | $25 |
| Biennial apprentice renewal | $85 |
| Examination | $184 |
| Biennial renewal | $40 |
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Office of Professional Licensure and Certification
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$42,000 median (19% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#11 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Must be of good professional character
- 2. Complete high school or its equivalent
- 3. Receive training of a minimum of 1,500 hours of training in a school of cosmetology approved by the Board; or a minimum of 3,000 hours distributed over a period of at least 18 months under a licensed cosmetologist
- 4. Pass an examination conducted by the Board
- 5. Pay a fee established by the Board
Salary Insights in New Hampshire
With a median salary of 42,000, Cosmetologists in New Hampshire earn 19% above the national median of $35,250. New Hampshire ranks #11 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$42,000Hourly estimate
$20.1919% above national median
Difference: +$6,750
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#11 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | $42,000 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maine | $48,480 | No educational requirements | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $49,640 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $47,740 | Degree 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maine | 64 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Vermont | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Office of Professional Licensure and Certification
7 Eagle Square, Concord, NH, 03301
Phone: 6032712152
Related Careers in New Hampshire
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $38,960 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $44,190 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $62,830 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $31,720 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in New Hampshire?
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 New Hampshire?
New Hampshire lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in New Hampshire?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in New Hampshire.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in New Hampshire?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in New Hampshire is 42,000. Salaries range from $22,730 (10th percentile) to $55,530 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in New Hampshire compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in New Hampshire earn 19% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 42,000.
How many Cosmetologists work in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire employs approximately 1,550 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to New Hampshire from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Cosmetologists in New Hampshire?
The licensing agency is Office of Professional Licensure and Certification. Review agency details at https://www.oplc.nh.gov/board-barbering-cosmetology-and-esthetics.