Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NY Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in New York
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in New York, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in New York
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NYS Department of State • Division of Licensing Services • One Commerce Plaza
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$33,960 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#27 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet New York eligibility requirements for Cosmetologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to NYS Department of State~Division of Licensing Services~One Commerce Plaza and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in New York
With a median salary of $33,960, Cosmetologists in New York earn 4% below the national median of $35,250. New York ranks #27 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,739Median annual salary
$33,960Hourly estimate
$16.334% below national median
Difference: -$1,290
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#27 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 York | $33,960 | Specific course required | 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 |
| Connecticut | $37,070 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| New Jersey | $44,110 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Pennsylvania | $29,680 | 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 York | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Vermont | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Massachusetts | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Connecticut | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| New Jersey | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Pennsylvania | 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
NYS Department of State • Division of Licensing Services • One Commerce Plaza
99 Washington Avenue, P.O. Box 22001, Albany, NY, 12201
Phone: 5184744429
Related Careers in New York
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $32,050 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $45,770 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $58,730 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $33,390 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in New York?
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 education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in New York?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in New York.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in New York?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in New York is $33,960. Salaries range from $31,200 (10th percentile) to $72,760 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in New York compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in New York earn 4% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of $33,960.
How many Cosmetologists work in New York?
New York employs approximately 20,300 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to New York 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 York?
The licensing agency is NYS Department of State / Division of Licensing Services / One Commerce Plaza. Review agency details at https://www.dos.ny.gov/.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in New York?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.