Application Fee
See agencyVerified by OH Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Ohio
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Ohio, 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 Ohio
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$29,440 median (16% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#43 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 Ohio
With a median salary of 29,440, Cosmetologists in Ohio earn 16% below the national median of $35,250. Ohio ranks #43 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$29,440Hourly estimate
$14.1516% below national median
Difference: -$5,810
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#43 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $29,440 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $35,720 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $29,680 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $31,150 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $32,170 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $31,480 | Specific course required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Michigan | 54 | 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. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 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
Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board
1929 Gateway Circle, Grove City, OH, 43123
Phone: 6144663834
Related Careers in Ohio
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $46,930 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $41,660 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $50,430 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $35,900 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Ohio?
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 Ohio?
Ohio lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Ohio?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in Ohio.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Ohio?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Ohio is 29,440. Salaries range from $23,340 (10th percentile) to $60,800 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Ohio compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Ohio earn 16% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 29,440.
How many Cosmetologists work in Ohio?
Ohio employs approximately 12,730 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Ohio 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 Ohio?
The licensing agency is Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board. Review agency details at https://www.cos.ohio.gov/.