Cosmetologist / Alabama
2026 data Alabama board official source

Alabama Cosmetologist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

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Provides hair, skin, and nail care services. Required in all 50 states.

What the Alabama data shows for Cosmetologists

Becoming a licensed cosmetologist in Alabama means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 1,186 training hours, a passing score on State Cosmetology Board Exam, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 16. Alabama regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Cosmetology School".

Upfront cost is $35, with renewal running $15 on a 2-year cycle. Expect roughly 2 weeks of processing once a complete application is submitted. Alabama doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

On reciprocity, cosmetologists should know: Varies by state — check with state board.

Licensing Requirements in Alabama

Education / Training Hours
Cosmetology School
1,186 hours
Exam Requirement
State Cosmetology Board Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$82
Renewal Fee
$45
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
16 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$35
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$15
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
2 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
Not required
Compare fees across all states for Cosmetologist →

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Cosmetologist All Alabama licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Alabama licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Cosmetologist in Alabama? ▼
Alabama requires 1186 education/training hours, passing an exam (State Cosmetology Board Exam), and an initial fee of $82. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Cosmetologist in Alabama? ▼
Alabama licenses cosmetologists who complete its requirements (1186 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Alabama licensing board.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Alabama from another state? ▼
Cosmetologist licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Varies by state — check with state board. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Alabama licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Alabama require a background check for Cosmetologist licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for cosmetologist licensing in Alabama. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
How much does it cost to get a Cosmetologist license in Alabama? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Alabama is $35. The renewal fee is $15 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 2 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Cosmetologist license processing take in Alabama? ▼
In Alabama, license processing for cosmetologists typically takes approximately 2 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.