Esthetician / Washington
2026 data Washington board official source

Washington Esthetician License Requirements

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

Specializes in skin care including facials and waxing.

What the Washington data shows for Estheticians

Becoming a licensed esthetician in Washington means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 860 training hours, a passing score on State Esthetics Exam, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 16. Washington regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Esthetics School".

The initial price tag is $139, and renewal costs $66 every 2 years. There's no continuing-education mandate tied to this profession in Washington, which keeps the long-run cost of staying licensed lighter than in CE-heavy states.

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

Licensing Requirements in Washington

Education / Training Hours
Esthetics School
860 hours
Exam Requirement
State Esthetics Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$139
Renewal Fee
$66
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
16 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Washington licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Esthetician in Washington?
Washington requires 860 education/training hours, passing an exam (State Esthetics Exam), and an initial fee of $139. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as an Esthetician in Washington?
Certification as an esthetician in Washington means clearing the state's checklist: 860 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Washington licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Esthetician license to Washington from another state?
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for estheticians: Varies by state — check with state board. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Washington licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Washington require a background check for Esthetician licensing?
Washington does require a background check before issuing an esthetician license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.

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