Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in West 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 West Virginia
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: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
BARBERS & COSMETOLOGISTS
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$31,150 median (12% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#33 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 West Virginia
With a median salary of 31,150, Cosmetologists in West Virginia earn 12% below the national median of $35,250. West Virginia ranks #33 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$31,150Hourly estimate
$14.9812% below national median
Difference: -$4,100
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#33 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $31,150 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $29,680 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $36,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $37,850 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $32,170 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $29,440 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | 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. |
| Ohio | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
BARBERS & COSMETOLOGISTS
See official licensing board website
Phone: 3045582924
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $34,360 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $37,750 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $42,730 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $36,020 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in West 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 West Virginia?
West Virginia lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in West Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Cosmetologist licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in West Virginia is 31,150. Salaries range from $23,020 (10th percentile) to $58,380 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in West Virginia earn 12% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 31,150.
How many Cosmetologists work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 1,040 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to West Virginia from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Cosmetologists in West Virginia?
The licensing agency is BARBERS & COSMETOLOGISTS. Review agency details at http://www.wvbbc.com/.