Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Virginia, 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 Virginia
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation • Board for Barbers and Cosmetology
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$37,850 median (7% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#16 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Virginia eligibility requirements for Cosmetologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation~Board for Barbers and Cosmetology and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Virginia
With a median salary of $37,850, Cosmetologists in Virginia earn 7% above the national median of $35,250. Virginia ranks #16 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,471Median annual salary
$37,850Hourly estimate
$18.207% above national median
Difference: +$2,600
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#16 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $37,850 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $36,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $31,150 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $32,170 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $29,170 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| North Carolina | $36,140 | Specific course required | State exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Kentucky | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation • Board for Barbers and Cosmetology
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 400, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8043678590
Related Careers in Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $44,760 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $35,860 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $56,850 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $36,970 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Virginia?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Virginia is $37,850. Salaries range from $26,000 (10th percentile) to $88,980 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Virginia earn 7% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of $37,850.
How many Cosmetologists work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 9,480 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Virginia 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 Virginia?
The licensing agency is Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation / Board for Barbers and Cosmetology. Review agency details at https://www.dpor.virginia.gov/Boards/BarberCosmo/.
How often do you renew a Cosmetologist license in Virginia?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.