Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Personal Care
Esthetician Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for esthetician in Virginia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Esthetician in Virginia
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
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
$35,860 median (14% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#44 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Virginia eligibility requirements for Esthetician licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation~Board for Barbers and Cosmetology and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Virginia
With a median salary of $35,860, Estheticians in Virginia earn 14% below the national median of $41,560. Virginia ranks #44 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,471Median annual salary
$35,860Hourly estimate
$17.2414% below national median
Difference: -$5,700
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEsthetician Salary Ranking
#44 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $35,860 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $46,420 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $37,750 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $26,360 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $36,090 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| North Carolina | $46,120 | Varies by state board | State exam required | Varies by board |
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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Kentucky | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 | Varies by board |
| Cosmetologist | $37,850 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $56,850 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $36,970 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Esthetician in Virginia?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Estheticians in Virginia?
Virginia lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Estheticians.
What education do you need to become a Esthetician in Virginia?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Esthetician licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Esthetician salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Estheticians in Virginia is $35,860. Salaries range from $29,240 (10th percentile) to $60,260 (90th percentile).
How does the Esthetician salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Estheticians in Virginia earn 14% below the national median of $41,560, with a state median of $35,860.
How many Estheticians work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 1,390 Estheticians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Esthetician license to Virginia from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Estheticians 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/.
How often do you renew a Esthetician license in Virginia?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.