Cosmetologist / New York
2026 data New York board official source

New York Cosmetologist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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

What the New York data shows for Cosmetologists

New York's path to cosmetologist licensure runs through 1,354 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. New York folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Cosmetology School".

Budget $40 to get started, plus $40 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle; processing typically runs about 3 weeks once your application is complete. New York 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 New York

Education / Training Hours
Cosmetology School
1,354 hours
Exam Requirement
State Cosmetology Board Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$123
Renewal Fee
$63
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
$40
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$40
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 New York licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with New York licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Cosmetologist in New York? ▼
New York requires 1354 education/training hours, passing an exam (State Cosmetology Board Exam), and an initial fee of $123. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Cosmetologist in New York? ▼
To become a licensed cosmetologist in New York, you must meet the state's requirements including 1354 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the New York licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to New York 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 New York licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does New York require a background check for Cosmetologist licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the cosmetologist licensing process in New York. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
How much does it cost to get a Cosmetologist license in New York? ▼
The initial licensing fee in New York is $40. The renewal fee is $40 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 3 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Cosmetologist license processing take in New York? ▼
In New York, 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.