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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $36,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $31,150 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $32,170 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $29,170 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $36,140 | Specific course required | State exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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
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 | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $35,860 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $56,850 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $36,970 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Virginia?
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 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. 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 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/.