Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Rhode Island, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
RI Department of Health • Office of Facilities Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$30,510 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#37 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Rhode Island eligibility requirements for Cosmetologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to RI Department of Health~Office of Facilities Regulation and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Rhode Island
With a median salary of $30,510, Cosmetologists in Rhode Island earn 13% below the national median of $35,250. Rhode Island ranks #37 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,294Median annual salary
$30,510Hourly estimate
$14.6713% below national median
Difference: -$4,740
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#37 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $30,510 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $47,740 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $37,070 | Specific course required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Massachusetts | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Connecticut | 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
RI Department of Health • Office of Facilities Regulation
3 Capitol Hill, Room 306, Providence, RI, 02908-5097
Phone: 4012222828
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $38,960 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $38,310 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $57,950 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $36,180 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Degree required for Cosmetologist licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Rhode Island is $30,510. Salaries range from $29,120 (10th percentile) to $62,400 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Rhode Island earn 13% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of $30,510.
How many Cosmetologists work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 1,440 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Health / Office of Facilities Regulation. Review agency details at https://health.ri.gov/licenses/.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in Rhode Island?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.