LicenseCompass

Cosmetologist or Beauctician or Beauty Operator License in Louisiana

Quick Answer

To become a licensed cosmetologist in Louisiana, you must complete 10th grade, graduate from an accredited cosmetology school, and pass the written exam. CE is required for renewal. Annual renewal. Estimated costs are approximately $200.

Education Required
1500 hours
Exam
Louisiana Cosmetology Exam (NIC/PSI)
Total Cost
$200 (est.)
Timeline
9-14 months
Background Check
Required
Renewal
Every 1 year

Requirements

Cosmetologist or Beauctician or Beauty Operator license in Louisiana

gold
Education
Specific course required
Exam
Third-party exam required
Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
Continuing Education
Continuing education required to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
N/A - Not displayed

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee
$25
Exam Fee
$75
Renewal Fee
$25
Total Estimated Cost
$200

Licensing Agency

Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Cosmetologist or Beauctician or Beauty Operator license in Louisiana. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

$
Application FeeEst.$25
Exam FeeEst.$75
Total Estimated Cost$100

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

Cosmetologist or Beauctician or Beauty Operator Salary in Louisiana

Entry Level

$17,830

Median

$23,470

Experienced

$46,720

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 or Beauctician or Beauty Operator in Louisiana.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Specific course required

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    No criminal record prohibitions

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    Third-party exam required — Louisiana Cosmetology Exam (NIC/PSI)

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$25.

  5. 5

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 9-14 months.

Cosmetologist or Beauctician or Beauty Operator Licensing in Louisiana: What to Know

Louisiana requires completion of 10th grade (or equivalent), graduation from an accredited cosmetology school, and passing a written exam. CE is required for renewal. No criminal record prohibitions exist as blanket restrictions. The Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology oversees licensing. Louisiana has annual renewal. New Orleans and Baton Rouge are the primary markets, with New Orleans' vibrant cultural scene creating unique opportunities for creative hair and makeup artistry.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Cosmetologist or Beauctician or Beauty Operator license cost in Louisiana?
The estimated total cost is $200, including application fees, exam fees ($75), and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Cosmetologist or Beauctician or Beauty Operator license in Louisiana?
The process typically takes 9-14 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Cosmetologist or Beauctician or Beauty Operator license in Louisiana?
You need to pass the Louisiana Cosmetology Exam (NIC/PSI). Third-party exam required

Considering another state?

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.