Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WI Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in Wisconsin, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in Wisconsin
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State 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
WI Department of Safety and Professional Services • Division of Professional Credential Processing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$36,550 median (4% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 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 Wisconsin
With a median salary of 36,550, Cosmetologists in Wisconsin earn 4% above the national median of $35,250. Wisconsin ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$36,550Hourly estimate
$17.574% above national median
Difference: +$1,300
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#18 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $36,550 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $42,850 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $37,850 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $34,800 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $35,720 | Degree 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Michigan | 54 | Low | 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
WI Department of Safety and Professional Services • Division of Professional Credential Processing
1400 E. Washington Ave., P.O. Box 8935, Madison, WI, 53708-8935
Phone: 6082662112
Related Careers in Wisconsin
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $34,360 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $29,880 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $57,530 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $34,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in Wisconsin?
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 Wisconsin?
Wisconsin lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Wisconsin?
The board typically expects Degree required for Cosmetologist licensure in Wisconsin.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in Wisconsin is 36,550. Salaries range from $22,750 (10th percentile) to $55,070 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in Wisconsin earn 4% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 36,550.
How many Cosmetologists work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 6,460 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin?
The licensing agency is WI Department of Safety and Professional Services / Division of Professional Credential Processing. Review agency details at https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/Professions/Default.aspx.