Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Personal Care
Esthetician Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for esthetician in North Carolina, 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 North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC State Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$46,120 median (11% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#15 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 North Carolina
With a median salary of 46,120, Estheticians in North Carolina earn 11% above the national median of $41,560. North Carolina ranks #15 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$46,120Hourly estimate
$22.1711% above national median
Difference: +$4,560
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEsthetician Salary Ranking
#15 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $46,120 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $35,860 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $36,090 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $42,340 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $35,810 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | 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. |
| Georgia | 19 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
NC State Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners
121 Edinburgh South Drive, Ste 209, Cary, NC, 27511
Phone: 9197366123
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $64,290 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $36,140 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $61,670 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $34,810 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Esthetician in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Estheticians.
What is the typical Esthetician salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Estheticians in North Carolina is 46,120. Salaries range from $26,980 (10th percentile) to $91,520 (90th percentile).
How does the Esthetician salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Estheticians in North Carolina earn 11% above the national median of $41,560, with a state median of 46,120.
How many Estheticians work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 2,170 Estheticians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Esthetician license to North Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Estheticians in North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC State Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.nccosmeticarts.com/licensees.aspx.