Cosmetologist / Maryland
2026 data Maryland board official source

Maryland 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 Maryland data shows for Cosmetologists

Maryland's path to cosmetologist licensure runs through 1,397 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on State Cosmetology Board Exam, plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 16 can be licensed. Maryland folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Cosmetology School".

Upfront cost is $70, with renewal running $35 on a 2-year cycle. Expect roughly 3 weeks of processing once a complete application is submitted. Maryland doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

For cosmetologists, the reciprocity picture is: Varies by state — check with state board.

Licensing Requirements in Maryland

Education / Training Hours
Cosmetology School
1,397 hours
Exam Requirement
State Cosmetology Board Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$134
Renewal Fee
$68
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
$70
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$35
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
3 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 Maryland licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Maryland licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Cosmetologist in Maryland? ▼
Maryland requires 1397 education/training hours, passing an exam (State Cosmetology Board Exam), and an initial fee of $134. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Cosmetologist in Maryland? ▼
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Maryland, you must meet the state's requirements including 1397 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Maryland licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Maryland from another state? ▼
For cosmetologists, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: Varies by state — check with state board. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Maryland licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Maryland require a background check for Cosmetologist licensing? ▼
Maryland does require a background check before issuing a cosmetologist license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
How much does it cost to get a Cosmetologist license in Maryland? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Maryland is $70. The renewal fee is $35 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 3 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Cosmetologist license processing take in Maryland? ▼
In Maryland, license processing for cosmetologists typically takes approximately 3 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.