Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in North Carolina, 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 North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Preliminary/temporary license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Affidavit or referral required
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC State Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$36,140 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#20 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 North Carolina
With a median salary of 36,140, Cosmetologists in North Carolina earn 3% above the national median of $35,250. North Carolina ranks #20 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$36,140Hourly estimate
$17.383% above national median
Difference: +$890
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#20 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $36,140 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $37,850 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $29,170 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $30,790 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $29,120 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 19 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
NC State Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners
121 Edinburgh South Drive, Ste 209, Cary, NC, 27511
Phone: 9197366123
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $64,290 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $46,120 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $61,670 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $34,810 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in North Carolina?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in North Carolina is 36,140. Salaries range from $24,060 (10th percentile) to $61,620 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in North Carolina earn 3% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 36,140.
How many Cosmetologists work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 8,720 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC State Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.nccosmeticarts.com/licensees.aspx.