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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Oregon
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
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 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 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 6-24 months.
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 | 6-24 months |
| Washington | $58,920 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Idaho | $33,820 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $29,690 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| California | $39,370 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Washington | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
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 | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $52,000 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $82,860 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $35,970 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Oregon?
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 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. License status indicator: Active. 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.