Cosmetologist
Arkansas
Cosmetologist License Requirements
1,500 hrs
Training Hours
Written + Practical
Exam Type
2 years (biennial, expires on practitioner's birthday)
Renewal Cycle
$175
Gov. Fees
How to Get Licensed
VerifiedComplete 1,500 clock hours at a state-approved cosmetology school
Submit pre-licensure criminal background check petition
Register and pass the written theory exam through Prov (score 75% or higher)
Register and pass the practical skills exam through Prov (score 75% or higher)
Submit license application with $50 fee and required documentation to the Arkansas Department of Health Cosmetology Section
Receive cosmetology license
Basic Requirements
Minimum Age
16 years old
Education Level
Completion of at least 2 years of high school (10th grade)
Residency
No state residency requirement
Background Check
Applicants must submit a pre-licensure criminal background check petition. Must have no disqualifying conviction of a felony or misdemeanor.
Training Requirements
Total Training Hours
1,500 hours
Cosmetology school (state-approved)
Apprenticeship Alternative
Not availableOnline Hours Allowed
Not specified; practical training must be in-person
Curriculum Includes
Scope of Practice
VerifiedCosmetologists in Arkansas may perform hairdressing, manicuring, nail extensions, and aesthetics. The scope of practice must include all four areas for a full cosmetologist license. Services include hair cutting, styling, coloring, chemical treatments, nail care, skin care, and makeup application.
Examination
Written Exam
Written Theory Exam
- Administered by
- Prov (formerly DL Roope)
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- $60
Written exams available daily (Monday-Friday) at Prov testing centers statewide. Schedule at least 3 business days in advance.
Practical Exam
Practical Skills Exam
- Administered by
- Prov (formerly DL Roope)
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- $65
Practical exam evaluates hands-on cosmetology skills. If you fail one portion, you only retake that specific exam.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee License application fee | $50 |
Exam Fee Written exam (~$60) + practical exam (~$65); paid directly to Prov | $125 |
License Fee Included in the application fee | $0 |
Total Government Fees Application ($50) + written exam ($60) + practical exam ($65). Approximate total. | $175 |
Cosmetology School Tuition: $5,000–$18,000
Varies by school; NOT a government fee. Arkansas cosmetology schools range from community college programs to private institutions.
License & Renewal
Initial License Term
2 years (biennial, expires on practitioner's birthday)
Renewal Cycle
2 years (biennial, expires on practitioner's birthday)
Renewal Fee
Varies
Continuing Education
Not required
Reciprocity & Endorsement
VerifiedArkansas allows reciprocity for applicants currently licensed in another state. Must contact the licensing board in the state of current licensure to send certification to Arkansas. If the applicant has passed a written and practical national or Department-approved examination, only the Arkansas state law exam is required. If not, the applicant must pass written, practical, and state law exams.
Additional Requirements: Must be at least 18 years old for reciprocity; scope of practice must include hairdressing, manicuring, nail extensions, and aesthetics; must pass Arkansas state law exam; must submit pre-licensure criminal background check petition
Related Licenses in Arkansas
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
Arkansas is one of only about 12 states that refuses apprenticeship credit entirely. The state also underwent temporary fee reductions (2024-2025) under Act 114 of 2023, with fees restored to original amounts starting January 1, 2026. The age requirement for reciprocity applicants (18) is higher than for in-state exam applicants (16).
Act 114 of 2023 mandated temporary fee reductions effective January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2025. Beginning January 1, 2026, renewal fees are restored to pre-reduction amounts.
Arkansas does not accept apprenticeship credit -- all training must be from a state-approved school
Background check is required as part of the application process
Reciprocity applicants must be at least 18 (vs. 16 for in-state exam applicants)
Sources
Official Arkansas Department of Health cosmetology page
Accessed 2026-02-24
2025 licensing guide
Accessed 2026-02-24
Official Prov CIB for Arkansas
Accessed 2026-02-24
Official Arkansas fee schedule page
Accessed 2026-02-24
Official reciprocity requirements document
Accessed 2026-02-24
Official reciprocity requirements
Accessed 2026-02-24
Find Cosmetology Schools in Arkansas
Arkansas requires 1,500 hours of cosmetology training. Find approved schools and programs near you.
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