Cosmetologist / North Dakota
2026 data North Dakota board official source

North Dakota 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 North Dakota data shows for Cosmetologists

North Dakota sets the entry bar for cosmetologists at 1,065 training hours and a passing score on State Cosmetology Board Exam. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 16 or older. The credential is administered under North Dakota's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Cosmetology School".

The initial price tag is $60, and renewal costs $25 every 2 years. Applications usually take around 2 weeks to process once complete. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in North Dakota, so the annualized maintenance burden is lower than in states that mandate ongoing hours.

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

Licensing Requirements in North Dakota

Education / Training Hours
Cosmetology School
1,065 hours
Exam Requirement
State Cosmetology Board Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$51
Renewal Fee
$32
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
$60
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 North Dakota licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with North Dakota licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Cosmetologist in North Dakota? ▼
North Dakota requires 1065 education/training hours, passing an exam (State Cosmetology Board Exam), and an initial fee of $51. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Cosmetologist in North Dakota? ▼
To become a licensed cosmetologist in North Dakota, you must meet the state's requirements including 1065 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the North Dakota licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to North Dakota from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for cosmetologists: Varies by state — check with state board. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the North Dakota licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does North Dakota require a background check for Cosmetologist licensing? ▼
Yes, North Dakota requires a criminal background check as part of the cosmetologist licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
How much does it cost to get a Cosmetologist license in North Dakota? ▼
The initial licensing fee in North Dakota is $60. 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 North Dakota? ▼
In North Dakota, 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.