Cosmetologist
Maine
Cosmetologist License Requirements
Governing Authority
Barbering and Cosmetology Licensing Program (Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation)
Official website →1,500 hrs
Training Hours
Written + Practical
Exam Type
1 year (annual)
Renewal Cycle
$214
Gov. Fees
How to Get Licensed
VerifiedComplete 1,500 hours at a Board-approved cosmetology school (or 2,500 apprenticeship hours)
Be at least 17 years of age and have completed the 10th grade or equivalent
Submit application with $40 fee to Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation
Register with Prov, Inc. for NIC written and practical exams
Pass both the NIC Written Exam and NIC Practical Exam with 75% or better
Receive cosmetology license
Basic Requirements
Minimum Age
17 years old
Education Level
Completion of 10th grade or equivalent
Residency
No state residency requirement
Background Check
Not required
Training Requirements
Total Training Hours
1,500 hours
Cosmetology school or apprenticeship
Apprenticeship Alternative
2,500 hours required
Applicants may complete 2,500 hours of apprenticeship training as an alternative to 1,500 hours of cosmetology school.
Online Hours Allowed
Not specified
Curriculum Includes
Scope of Practice
VerifiedCosmetologists in Maine are licensed to provide hair styling, cutting, coloring, chemical texturing, manicuring, pedicuring, facials, skin care, and related beauty services. The cosmetology license covers hair, nails, and skin services.
Examination
Written Exam
NIC Written (Theory) Exam
- Administered by
- Prov, Inc. (formerly DL Roope Administrations)
- Questions
- 110
- Time
- 90 minutes
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- $87
Computer-based exam with 110 multiple-choice questions, 100 scored. The NIC theory exam covers hair, skin, nails, safety, and sanitation. Retake fee is $87.
Practical Exam
NIC Practical Exam
- Administered by
- Prov, Inc. (formerly DL Roope Administrations)
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- $87
Hands-on practical exam lasting approximately 4-5 hours. Candidates demonstrate competency in hair, skin, and nail services.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee | $40 |
Exam Fee Written exam ($87) + practical exam ($87) for first-time candidates | $174 |
License Fee License fee included in application fee | $0 |
Total Government Fees Application ($40) + exam fees ($174). May vary slightly depending on source. | $214 |
Cosmetology School Tuition: $10,000–$20,000
Average Maine cosmetology school cost is ~$18,052 (tuition $15,663 + kit $2,361). NOT a government fee.
License & Renewal
Initial License Term
1 year (expires October 31 annually)
Renewal Cycle
1 year (annual)
Renewal Fee
$20
Continuing Education
Not required
Reciprocity & Endorsement
VerifiedMaine may waive the examination and grant a license to any individual who presents proof of authorization to practice from another state or jurisdiction that maintains professional standards equal to, or higher than, those set forth in Maine.
Additional Requirements: Applicant must demonstrate substantially equivalent qualifications
Related Licenses in Maine
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
Maine is one of the few states with annual license renewal (most states use biennial cycles). The minimum age is 17, and only 10th grade completion is required rather than a high school diploma.
Maine licenses expire annually on October 31st, making it one of the few states with annual (rather than biennial) renewal.
Exam administration transitioned from DL Roope to Prov, Inc.
Applicants can perform services in clients' homes under their practice license without an additional shop license.
Sources
Official Maine state website
Accessed 2026-02-24
Accessed 2026-02-24
Accessed 2026-02-24
Accessed 2026-02-24
Find Cosmetology Schools in Maine
Maine requires 1,500 hours of cosmetology training. Find approved schools and programs near you.
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