Cosmetologist / Rhode Island
2026 data Rhode Island board official source

Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island data shows for Cosmetologists

Becoming a licensed cosmetologist in Rhode Island means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 1,446 training hours, a passing score on State Cosmetology Board Exam, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 16. Rhode Island regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Cosmetology School".

Upfront cost is $75, with renewal running $35 on a 2-year cycle. Expect roughly 3 weeks of processing once a complete application is submitted. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in Rhode Island, so the annualized maintenance burden is lower than in states that mandate ongoing hours.

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

Licensing Requirements in Rhode Island

Education / Training Hours
Cosmetology School
1,446 hours
Exam Requirement
State Cosmetology Board Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$146
Renewal Fee
$73
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
$75
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 →

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Cosmetologist in Rhode Island? ▼
Rhode Island requires 1446 education/training hours, passing an exam (State Cosmetology Board Exam), and an initial fee of $146. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Cosmetologist in Rhode Island? ▼
Certification as a cosmetologist in Rhode Island means clearing the state's checklist: 1446 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Rhode Island licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Rhode Island require a background check for Cosmetologist licensing? ▼
Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Rhode Island is $75. 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 Rhode Island? ▼
In Rhode Island, 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.