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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Preliminary/temporary license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
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 North Carolina 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 NC State Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,298Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $37,850 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $29,170 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $30,790 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| South Carolina | $29,120 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $46,120 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $61,670 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $34,810 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in North Carolina?
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 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. 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.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in North Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.