Cosmetologist
Alaska
Hairdresser License Requirements
Governing Authority
Board of Barbers and Hairdressers (Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing)
Official website →1,650 hrs
Training Hours
Written + Practical
Exam Type
2 years (biennial)
Renewal Cycle
$450
Gov. Fees
How to Get Licensed
VerifiedComplete 1,650 hours at a Board-approved hairdressing school (or 2,000 apprenticeship hours)
Be at least 17 years of age with a 10th-grade education
Pass the NIC Written Exam with 75% or better ($60)
Pass the NIC Practical Exam with 75% or better ($60)
Submit hairdresser license application with $150 application fee and $180 license fee
Receive hairdresser license
Basic Requirements
Minimum Age
17 years old
Education Level
10th grade education
Residency
No state residency requirement
Background Check
Not required
Training Requirements
Total Training Hours
1,650 hours
Cosmetology/hairdressing school or apprenticeship
Apprenticeship Alternative
2,000 hours required
Applicants may complete 2,000 hours of training in a Board-approved apprenticeship program as an alternative to 1,650 school hours.
Online Hours Allowed
Not specified
Curriculum Includes
Scope of Practice
VerifiedA person licensed as a hairdresser in Alaska may practice hairdressing (including hair cutting, styling, coloring, permanent waving, and chemical services), manicuring, and limited esthetics under the hairdresser license.
Examination
Written Exam
NIC Written Exam
- Administered by
- NIC
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- $60
NIC written exam. Must score 75% or better to pass.
Practical Exam
NIC Practical Exam
- Administered by
- NIC
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- $60
NIC practical exam following NIC Practical Exam Standards. Must score 75% or better.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee Non-refundable application fee | $150 |
Exam Fee Practical ($60) + written ($60) | $120 |
License Fee Initial license fee for hairdresser | $180 |
Total Government Fees Application ($150) + exam ($120) + license ($180) | $450 |
Cosmetology School Tuition: $10,000–$25,000
Varies by school. Alaska has limited cosmetology schools which may affect pricing. NOT a government fee.
License & Renewal
Initial License Term
Up to 2 years (expires August 31 of odd-numbered years)
Renewal Cycle
2 years (biennial)
Renewal Fee
$160–$180
Continuing Education
Not required
Reciprocity & Endorsement
Mostly verifiedAlaska offers licensure by credentials (endorsement) for professionals licensed in other states. Applicants must demonstrate equivalent training and examination requirements.
Additional Requirements: Must provide proof of equivalent training and current licensure in another state
Related Licenses in Alaska
Esthetician
Separate LicenseSkin care, facials, and related services
Nail Technician
Separate LicenseManicures, pedicures, and nail services
Barber
Separate LicenseHair cutting, shaving, and barbering services
Special Notes
Alaska does not issue a 'cosmetologist' license - the equivalent is called 'Hairdresser' and it includes manicuring and limited esthetics under a single license. Alaska has among the highest total government fees ($450) for initial licensing. The minimum age is 17 with only 10th-grade education required.
Alaska does not use the term 'cosmetologist' - the equivalent license is called 'Hairdresser'.
A hairdresser license in Alaska includes the scope to practice manicuring and limited esthetics.
Alaska has the highest total government fees among the states in this batch ($450).
All licenses expire on August 31 of odd-numbered years regardless of when issued.
The Board also oversees tattoo, permanent cosmetic coloring, and body piercing licensing.
Sources
Official Alaska state website
Accessed 2026-02-24
Accessed 2026-02-24
Accessed 2026-02-24
Accessed 2026-02-24
Find Cosmetology Schools in Alaska
Alaska requires 1,650 hours of cosmetology training. Find approved schools and programs near you.
We may earn a commission if you enroll through links on our site. This does not affect our recommendations or the price you pay.