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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in New Hampshire
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
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 (4)
- 1. Meet New Hampshire eligibility requirements for Cosmetologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Office of Professional Licensure and Certification and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,490Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Maine | $48,480 | No educational requirements | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Vermont | $49,640 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $47,740 | Degree 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Maine | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Vermont | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Massachusetts | 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
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 | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $44,190 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $62,830 | Specific course required | 1-18 years |
| Nail Technician | $31,720 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in New Hampshire?
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 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. 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.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in New Hampshire?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.