Cosmetologist
Iowa
Cosmetologist License Requirements
2,100 hrs
Training Hours
Written + Practical
Exam Type
2 years (biennial, by March 31 of odd-numbered years)
Renewal Cycle
$225–$260
Gov. Fees
How to Get Licensed
VerifiedComplete 2,100 hours of cosmetology training at a licensed cosmetology school in Iowa
Pass the NIC Written (Theory) Exam administered by Prov
Pass the NIC Practical Exam administered by Prov
Submit application with required documentation (transcripts, identification, official test scores) and $60 fee to the Iowa Board of Cosmetology
Receive license (processing takes approximately 4-8 weeks after exam passage)
Basic Requirements
Minimum Age
17 years old
Education Level
High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
Residency
No state residency requirement
Background Check
Not required
Training Requirements
Total Training Hours
2,100 hours
Cosmetology school program at a licensed school
Apprenticeship Alternative
Not availableOnline Hours Allowed
Limited; some theory instruction may be offered online but practical hours must be in-person
Curriculum Includes
Scope of Practice
VerifiedHair cutting and styling, chemical treatments (coloring, perming, straightening), nail services (manicures, pedicures, artificial nails), makeup application, basic facials, waxing, and scalp treatments. Advanced services require additional certifications. Services outside of an establishment must be within scope and may not include chemicals, lasers, or other machines.
Examination
Written Exam
NIC Written (Theory) Exam
- Administered by
- Prov (formerly PSI)
- Time
- 90 minutes
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- $83
NIC national theory examination; computer-based test administered at Prov testing centers
Practical Exam
NIC Practical Exam
- Administered by
- Prov (formerly PSI)
- Passing Score
- 75%
NIC practical examination; approximately 3 hours in duration. Candidates demonstrate skills on mannequins and/or live models.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee Application fee for cosmetology licensure, endorsement, or reciprocity | $60 |
Exam Fee Written exam $83 paid to Prov; practical exam fee additional (total estimated $150-$200) | $83+ |
License Fee License fee appears to be included in the $60 application fee | $0 |
Total Government Fees Application ($60) + exam fees (~$165–$200). Estimated range. | $225–$260 |
Cosmetology School Tuition: $9,000–$26,000
Varies by school; NOT a government fee. Iowa School of Beauty ~$9,172; Capri College ~$19,180; SOHO Hair Academy ~$22,131. Average around $12,000.
License & Renewal
Initial License Term
Biennial (expires March 31 of odd-numbered years)
Renewal Cycle
2 years (biennial, by March 31 of odd-numbered years)
Renewal Fee
$60
Continuing Education
6 hours — 6 hours per renewal cycle: 4 hours of technical instruction and 2 hours of Iowa law and sanitation
Late Renewal Fee
$60
Reciprocity & Endorsement
VerifiedIowa does not offer traditional reciprocity. Licensure by endorsement is available for those currently licensed in another state or country with substantially equivalent training. Requires active out-of-state license for at least 12 months, passing the NIC national exam, and completing Iowa-specific continuing education on sanitation and administrative rules.
Additional Requirements: Must hold an active out-of-state license for at least 12 months; must pass the NIC exam; must complete Iowa-specific CE; application fee of $60
Related Licenses in Iowa
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
Iowa requires 2,100 training hours for cosmetology, one of the highest requirements in the country. The state also offers a unique Blow-Dry Stylist credential that doesn't exist in many other states. All licenses renew on the same biennial cycle (March 31 of odd-numbered years) rather than individual expiration dates.
Iowa also offers a Blow-Dry Stylist credential as a limited-scope license
Iowa requires 2,100 training hours, which is among the highest in the nation
License renewal deadline is March 31 of odd-numbered years for all cosmetology licensees
Reactivation fee for lapsed cosmetology license is $120
Sources
Official Iowa state licensing portal
Accessed 2026-02-24
Official Iowa HHS licensing page
Accessed 2026-02-24
La'James International College guide
Accessed 2026-02-24
Effective July 1, 2024
Accessed 2026-02-24
CE renewal resource
Accessed 2026-02-24
2025 licensing guide
Accessed 2026-02-24
Find Cosmetology Schools in Iowa
Iowa requires 2,100 hours of cosmetology training. Find approved schools and programs near you.
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