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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in New York
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 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 |
| Connecticut | $37,070 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $44,110 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $29,680 | 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 York | 74 | Medium | Continuing education compliance is required. |
| 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. |
| Connecticut | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| New Jersey | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
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 | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $45,770 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $58,730 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $33,390 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in New York?
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 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. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required 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 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/.