Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Personal Care
Esthetician Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for esthetician in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Esthetician in Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Arts & Sciences
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$44,400 median (7% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#20 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 Iowa
With a median salary of 44,400, Estheticians in Iowa earn 7% above the national median of $41,560. Iowa ranks #20 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$44,400Hourly estimate
$21.357% above national median
Difference: +$2,840
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEsthetician Salary Ranking
#20 of 50 statesfor Esthetician median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Maine | 73,500 |
| #2 | Washington | 64,880 |
| #3 | Vermont | 61,060 |
| #4 | North Dakota | 52,510 |
| #5 | Nebraska | 52,010 |
Nearby States Comparison
Esthetician licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $44,400 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $35,410 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $29,880 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $38,580 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $49,410 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $52,010 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $31,930 | Varies by state board | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | 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. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Arts & Sciences
6200 Park Avenue Des Moines, IA 50321, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA, 50319-0075
Phone: 5152810254
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $78,480 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $37,850 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $62,400 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $38,530 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Esthetician in Iowa?
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 Estheticians in Iowa?
Iowa lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Estheticians.
What education do you need to become a Esthetician in Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Esthetician licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Esthetician salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Estheticians in Iowa is 44,400. Salaries range from $25,640 (10th percentile) to $83,730 (90th percentile).
How does the Esthetician salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Estheticians in Iowa earn 7% above the national median of $41,560, with a state median of 44,400.
How many Estheticians work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 700 Estheticians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Esthetician license to Iowa 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 Estheticians in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing / Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Arts & Sciences. Review agency details at https://dial.iowa.gov/about/boards/barbering-cosmetology.