Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NJ Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in New Jersey
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in New Jersey, 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 New Jersey
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Law and Public Safety • Division of Consumer Affairs • Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$44,110 median (25% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#8 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet New Jersey eligibility requirements for Cosmetologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Law and Public Safety~Division of Consumer Affairs~Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in New Jersey
With a median salary of $44,110, Cosmetologists in New Jersey earn 25% above the national median of $35,250. New Jersey ranks #8 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,565Median annual salary
$44,110Hourly estimate
$21.2125% above national median
Difference: +$8,860
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#8 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 Jersey | $44,110 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New York | $33,960 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Pennsylvania | $29,680 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Delaware | $30,980 | Degree required | Third-party 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 Jersey | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New York | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Delaware | 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
Department of Law and Public Safety • Division of Consumer Affairs • Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling
PO Box 45003, Newark, NJ, 7101
Phone: 9735046400
Related Careers in New Jersey
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $49,360 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $46,130 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $56,760 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $31,470 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in New Jersey?
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 Jersey?
New Jersey lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in New Jersey?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in New Jersey.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in New Jersey?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in New Jersey is $44,110. Salaries range from $31,470 (10th percentile) to $101,300 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in New Jersey compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in New Jersey earn 25% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of $44,110.
How many Cosmetologists work in New Jersey?
New Jersey employs approximately 15,140 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to New Jersey 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 Jersey?
The licensing agency is Department of Law and Public Safety / Division of Consumer Affairs / Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling. Review agency details at https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/cos/Pages/default.aspx.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in New Jersey?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.