Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Personal Care
Esthetician Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for esthetician in Washington, 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 Esthetician in Washington
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: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$64,880 median (56% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 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 Washington
With a median salary of 64,880, Estheticians in Washington earn 56% above the national median of $41,560. Washington ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$64,880Hourly estimate
$31.1956% above national median
Difference: +$23,320
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEsthetician Salary Ranking
#2 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 regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Licensing
2000 4th Ave W, Olympia, WA, 98502
Phone: 3606646488
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $70,750 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $58,920 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $82,820 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $47,840 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Esthetician in Washington?
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 Washington?
Washington lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Estheticians.
What education do you need to become a Esthetician in Washington?
The board typically expects Degree required for Esthetician licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Esthetician salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Estheticians in Washington is 64,880. Salaries range from $44,820 (10th percentile) to $113,230 (90th percentile).
How does the Esthetician salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Estheticians in Washington earn 56% above the national median of $41,560, with a state median of 64,880.
How many Estheticians work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 2,000 Estheticians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Esthetician license to Washington from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Estheticians in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Licensing. Review agency details at https://dol.wa.gov/about/contact-us/business-and-professional-licensing-contact-information.