Cosmetologist
Arizona
Cosmetologist License Requirements
1,500 hrs
Training Hours
Written + Practical
Exam Type
2 years (expires on licensee's birthday)
Renewal Cycle
$240
Gov. Fees
How to Get Licensed
VerifiedBe at least 16 years old with a high school diploma or GED
Complete 1,500 hours of cosmetology training at a Board-approved school (or qualifying apprenticeship program)
Register for and pass the written (theory) examination through PSI (110 questions, 90 minutes, 75% passing score)
Register for and pass the practical examination through PCS using NIC standards
Submit license application through the Board's Licensing Portal at bcb.az.gov
Pay the $60 initial license fee (plus $3 service fee)
Verify lawful U.S. citizenship and submit required documentation
Receive cosmetology license after Board review (may take up to 4 weeks)
Basic Requirements
Minimum Age
16 years old
Education Level
High school diploma or GED
Residency
No residency requirement; Arizona offers license reciprocity for professionals with active, good-standing licenses from other states
Background Check
Applicants must disclose felony convictions and certain misdemeanor charges on their application. Per A.R.S. 32-3208, cosmetology license applicants must report criminal charges involving conduct that may affect patient safety or felonies to the Board within 10 working days. The Board reviews criminal history and may deny applications based on criminal records.
Training Requirements
Total Training Hours
1,500 hours
Cosmetology school (Board-approved)
Apprenticeship Alternative
Arizona adopted an apprenticeship pathway to licensure via HB2525. Applicants may qualify through a DES-approved or U.S. DOL-approved apprenticeship program that includes at least 250 hours of infection protection and law review instruction. However, the full cosmetology apprenticeship pathway is newer and may have limited availability compared to specialty license apprenticeships.
Online Hours Allowed
Not specified; training must be completed at a Board-licensed school or approved apprenticeship program
Curriculum Includes
Scope of Practice
VerifiedHair cutting, styling, and braiding (including extensions); chemical texturizing and perming; hair coloring; hair and scalp care; body, scalp, and facial massage and manipulations; fundamental aesthetics of the body and face; manicure and pedicure services; makeup application; waxing and hair removal; infection control and safety procedures.
Examination
Written Exam
Arizona Cosmetology Theory Examination (NIC-based)
- Administered by
- PSI Exams (using NIC national exam)
- Questions
- 110
- Time
- 90 minutes
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- $100
110 multiple-choice questions (100 scored + 10 unscored pretest items). Computer-based exam administered through PSI. Arizona does not publish a fixed passing percentage; results are issued as Pass or Fail, though a score of 75 is the minimum threshold.
Practical Exam
Arizona Cosmetology Practical Examination (NIC-based)
- Administered by
- PCS (Professional Credential Services) using NIC standards
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- $77
Hands-on skills assessment using NIC standards. Tests ability to complete required cosmetology services safely including proper setup, procedure execution, and cleanup.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee Arizona does not charge a separate application fee; the exam and license fees cover the application | $0 |
Exam Fee Written exam ($100) + practical exam ($77). PCS processing fee. | $177 |
License Fee Initial cosmetology license fee paid to the Board (plus $3 service fee) | $60 |
Total Government Fees Exam fees ($177) + initial license fee ($60) + service fee ($3). Does not include education costs. | $240 |
Cosmetology School Tuition: $15,000–$25,000
Varies by school; NOT a government fee. Tuition for 1,500-hour cosmetology programs in Arizona.
License & Renewal
Initial License Term
2 years
Renewal Cycle
2 years (expires on licensee's birthday)
Renewal Fee
$60
Continuing Education
Not required
Reciprocity & Endorsement
Mostly verifiedArizona offers license reciprocity for professionals with active, good-standing licenses from other states. The original state's training must be substantially similar to Arizona's standards.
Additional Requirements: Applicants must verify their out-of-state license is active and in good standing. Training from the original state must be substantially similar to Arizona's 1,500-hour requirement.
Related Licenses in Arizona
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
Arizona adopted a newer apprenticeship pathway to cosmetology licensure via HB2525 that requires at least 250 hours of infection protection and law review instruction through a DES or DOL-approved program. Licenses expire on the licensee's birthday every two years. The state requires verification of lawful U.S. citizenship as part of the application process.
Arizona requires 1,500 hours of cosmetology training, which typically takes 9-12 months of full-time study.
Licenses expire every two years on the licensee's birthday.
No continuing education is required for license renewal.
Arizona adopted an apprenticeship pathway to licensure via HB2525, though availability may be limited.
Professional liability insurance is recommended but not legally required.
Licensees may perform services at client locations when sent by a licensed establishment or when serving clients in healthcare facilities, hospitals, nursing homes, or residences of those requiring home care.
Independent salon suites require separate establishment licenses regardless of rental arrangements.
Sources
Official state board website
Accessed 2026-02-24
Official training requirements
Accessed 2026-02-24
Details on apprenticeship pathway via HB2525
Accessed 2026-02-24
Detailed curriculum topics
Accessed 2026-02-24
Official exam scheduling information
Accessed 2026-02-24
Official fee schedule page
Accessed 2026-02-24
Total exam + license cost approximately $240
Accessed 2026-02-24
Biennial renewal on birthday
Accessed 2026-02-24
Reciprocity details for out-of-state applicants
Accessed 2026-02-24
Find Cosmetology Schools in Arizona
Arizona requires 1,500 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.