Cosmetologist
Colorado
Cosmetologist License Requirements
1,800 hrs
Training Hours
Written + Practical
Exam Type
2 years
Renewal Cycle
$159
Gov. Fees
How to Get Licensed
VerifiedComplete 1,800 hours of training at a Colorado state-approved cosmetology school
Register for and pass the NIC Written Exam through PSI (minimum 70% passing score)
Register for and pass the NIC Practical Exam through PSI (minimum 75% passing score)
Submit your license application to the Office of Barber and Cosmetology Licensure with the $28 application fee
Receive your cosmetologist license from DORA
Basic Requirements
Minimum Age
16 years old
Education Level
No specific education level mentioned in statute
Residency
No residency requirement
Background Check
Not required
Training Requirements
Total Training Hours
1,800 hours
Cosmetology school (state-approved)
Apprenticeship Alternative
Not availableOnline Hours Allowed
Not specified; training must be completed at a state-approved school
Curriculum Includes
Scope of Practice
Mostly verifiedCosmetologists in Colorado are licensed to perform hair cutting, styling, coloring, perming, chemical treatments, shampooing, conditioning, basic skincare and facials, makeup application, manicures, pedicures, and nail services. Colorado licenses cosmetologists, hairstylists, estheticians, nail technicians, and barbers under separate license categories.
Examination
Written Exam
NIC Written Exam
- Administered by
- PSI
- Passing Score
- 70%
- Fee
- $62
Written theory exam administered at PSI testing centers in Denver (Wheat Ridge), Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Grand Junction, and Pueblo.
Practical Exam
NIC Practical Exam
- Administered by
- PSI
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- $69
Hands-on practical exam administered at PSI testing centers. Both written and practical exams must be taken in person; no online option available.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee | $28 |
Exam Fee Written ($62) + Practical ($69) combined | $131 |
License Fee License fee is bundled with application/endorsement fee | Included in application |
Total Government Fees Application ($28) + Written exam ($62) + Practical exam ($69). Excludes education costs. | $159 |
Cosmetology School Tuition: $10,000-$20,000
Varies by school; NOT a government fee. Covers tuition, supplies, and student kit at Colorado cosmetology schools.
License & Renewal
Initial License Term
2 years (expires April 30 of even-numbered years based on original issuance)
Renewal Cycle
2 years
Renewal Fee
$40
Continuing Education
Not required
Late Renewal Fee
$15
Reciprocity & Endorsement
VerifiedColorado offers licensure by endorsement for active out-of-state license holders whose training meets substantially equivalent requirements. The endorsement fee is $75. A written exam may be required if prior training does not align with Colorado standards.
Additional Requirements: Active out-of-state license in good standing; may need to pass written exam
Related Licenses in Colorado
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
Colorado requires 1,800 hours for a full cosmetology license, which is higher than many states. However, it also offers a separate 1,200-hour Hairstylist license for those who only want to do hair services. No apprenticeship pathway is available.
Colorado also offers separate Hairstylist licenses requiring only 1,200 hours of training.
Cosmetologist licenses expire April 30 of even-numbered years; other license types expire March 31 of even-numbered years.
Colorado has a 60-day grace period after license expiration during which you may continue practicing.
Reinstatement fee for an expired license is $55.
Sources
Official state board website
Accessed 2026-02-24
1,800 hours confirmed across multiple sources
Accessed 2026-02-24
Official endorsement application info
Accessed 2026-02-24
Find Cosmetology Schools in Colorado
Colorado requires 1,800 hours of cosmetology training. Find approved schools and programs near you.
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