Application Fee
See agencyVerified by OR Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Oregon
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Oregon, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Oregon
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Oregon Health Authority - Health Licensing Office
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$35,760 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#21 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Oregon eligibility requirements for Cosmetologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Oregon Health Authority - Health Licensing Office and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Oregon
With a median salary of $35,760, Cosmetologists in Oregon earn 1% above the national median of $35,250. Oregon ranks #21 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,376Median annual salary
$35,760Hourly estimate
$17.191% above national median
Difference: +$510
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#21 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon | $35,760 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Washington | $58,920 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Idaho | $33,820 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Nevada | $29,690 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| California | $39,370 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Washington | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Idaho | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Nevada | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| California | 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
Oregon Health Authority - Health Licensing Office
1430 Tandem Ave NE Ste 180, Salem, OR, 97301
Phone: 5033788667
Related Careers in Oregon
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $38,960 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $52,000 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $82,860 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $35,970 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Oregon?
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 is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Oregon?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Oregon is $35,760. Salaries range from $29,760 (10th percentile) to $75,670 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Oregon compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Oregon earn 1% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of $35,760.
How many Cosmetologists work in Oregon?
Oregon employs approximately 1,900 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Oregon 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 Oregon?
The licensing agency is Oregon Health Authority - Health Licensing Office. Review agency details at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/hlo/Pages/index.aspx.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in Oregon?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.