Cosmetologist / Montana
2026 data Montana board official source

Montana Cosmetologist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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

What the Montana data shows for Cosmetologists

To practice as a cosmetologist in Montana, the state licensing board requires 1,454 documented education or training hours, a passing score on State Cosmetology Board Exam. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 16 years old. The regulation sits under Montana's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Cosmetology School".

Budget $55 to get started, plus $25 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle; processing typically runs about 2 weeks once your application is complete. Montana doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Varies by state — check with state board.

Licensing Requirements in Montana

Education / Training Hours
Cosmetology School
1,454 hours
Exam Requirement
State Cosmetology Board Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$149
Renewal Fee
$74
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
$55
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$25
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
2 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
Not required
Compare fees across all states for Cosmetologist →

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Cosmetologist in Montana? ▼
In Montana, the license path calls for 1454 education/training hours, a passing score on State Cosmetology Board Exam, and a $149 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Cosmetologist in Montana? ▼
Montana licenses cosmetologists who complete its requirements (1454 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Montana licensing board.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Montana 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 Montana licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Montana require a background check for Cosmetologist licensing? ▼
Montana 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 Montana? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Montana is $55. The renewal fee is $25 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 2 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Cosmetologist license processing take in Montana? ▼
In Montana, 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.