How much does a Cosmetologist license cost in California?

The estimated total cost is $175, including application fees, and education costs.

How long does it take to get a Cosmetologist license in California?

The process typically takes 9-14 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.

What exam do I need for a Cosmetologist license in California?

You need to pass the California Cosmetology Exam (PSI). N/A

Cosmetologist License in California

To become a licensed cosmetologist in California, you must be at least 17, complete 10th grade, finish 1,600 hours of training (or 3,200 apprenticeship hours), and pass the PSI exam. The initial fee of $125 includes both exam and license costs. Renewal is $50 biennially. Total estimated cost is approximately $175.

Education Required: 1600 hours
Exam: California Cosmetology Exam (PSI)
Total Cost: $175 (est.)
Timeline: 9-14 months
Renewal: Every 2 years

Requirements

Cosmetologist license in California

gold

Veterans Benefits

Expedited processing is available for military and spouses

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee: $125
Renewal Fee: $50
Total Estimated Cost: $175

Licensing Agency

Department of Consumer Affairs~Board of Barbering and Cosmetology

Website 8009525210 Email

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Cosmetologist license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Application Fee

$125

Renewal Fee

$50

Total Estimated Cost

$175

Education / School Cost

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

Include first renewal fee ($50)

Application FeeEst.$125

Total Estimated Cost$125

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the California licensing board.

Cosmetologist Salary in California

Entry Level

$34,690

Median

$39,370

Experienced

$75,100

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Cosmetologist in California.

1

Submit Your Application

File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$125.
2

Receive Your License

Processing typically takes 9-14 months.

Cosmetologist Licensing in California: What to Know

California explicitly lists fees: initial fee of $125 includes examination and licensing costs; renewal is $50. Exam candidates must be at least 17, have completed 10th grade (or equivalent), and have completed 1,600 hours from an approved school or 3,200 hours of apprenticeship. Exams are available Monday through Friday at 22 PSI locations statewide. Expedited processing is available for military spouses. The Board of Barbering and Cosmetology under the Department of Consumer Affairs oversees licensing. California has the largest cosmetology workforce in the nation, with strong demand in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and throughout the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Cosmetologist license cost in California?: The estimated total cost is $175, including application fees, and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Cosmetologist license in California?: The process typically takes 9-14 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Cosmetologist license in California?: You need to pass the California Cosmetology Exam (PSI). N/A