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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $47,740 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $37,070 | Specific course required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
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 | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $38,310 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $57,950 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $36,180 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Rhode Island?
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 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. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. 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/.