Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ND Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in North Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in North Dakota, 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 Dakota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
ND State Board of Cosmetology
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$33,870 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#28 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet North Dakota 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 ND State Board of Cosmetology and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in North Dakota
With a median salary of $33,870, Cosmetologists in North Dakota earn 4% below the national median of $35,250. North Dakota ranks #28 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,258Median annual salary
$33,870Hourly estimate
$16.284% below national median
Difference: -$1,380
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#28 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 Dakota | $33,870 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $42,850 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $49,050 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Montana | $38,230 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Montana | 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
ND State Board of Cosmetology
4719 Shelburne St Ste 1, Bismarck, ND, 58503
Phone: 7012249800
Related Careers in North Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $34,100 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $52,510 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $70,720 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $30,920 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in North Dakota?
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 Dakota?
North Dakota lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in North Dakota?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in North Dakota.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in North Dakota?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in North Dakota is $33,870. Salaries range from $23,100 (10th percentile) to $77,630 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in North Dakota compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in North Dakota earn 4% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of $33,870.
How many Cosmetologists work in North Dakota?
North Dakota employs approximately 930 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to North Dakota 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 Dakota?
The licensing agency is ND State Board of Cosmetology. Review agency details at http://www.ndcosmetology.com/.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in North Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.