Cosmetologist
Mississippi
Cosmetologist (Practitioner) License Requirements
1,500 hrs
Training Hours
Written + Practical
Exam Type
2 years
Renewal Cycle
$245
Gov. Fees
How to Get Licensed
VerifiedComplete 1,500 hours of cosmetology training at an accredited school over a minimum of 9 months
Submit application with $85 fee (includes application and two-year license) to the Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering
Schedule and pass the theoretical (written) exam ($65) with a score of 70% or higher
Schedule and pass the practical (skills) exam ($95) with a score of 70% or higher
Receive cosmetology license
Basic Requirements
Minimum Age
17 years old
Education Level
High school diploma or equivalent, or enrollment in a community college
Residency
Must be able to read, write, and speak English
Background Check
Not required
Training Requirements
Total Training Hours
1,500 hours
Accredited school of cosmetology
Apprenticeship Alternative
Not availableOnline Hours Allowed
Not specified; practical training must be in-person
Curriculum Includes
Scope of Practice
Mostly verifiedCosmetologists in Mississippi may perform hair cutting, styling, coloring, chemical treatments, nail care (manicures, pedicures), skin care, facial treatments, and makeup application. Manicurists and estheticians cannot practice outside their specific scope of practice.
Examination
Written Exam
Theoretical (Written) Exam
- Administered by
- Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering
- Passing Score
- 70%
- Fee
- $65
Theoretical exam covering cosmetology knowledge. Retake fee is $93 per exam.
Practical Exam
Skills (Practical) Exam
- Administered by
- Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering
- Passing Score
- 70%
- Fee
- $95
Practical skills examination. Retake fee is $93.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee Application fee and two-year license fee combined for a cosmetologist | $85 |
Exam Fee Written/theory exam ($65) + practical/skills exam ($95) | $160 |
License Fee Application and initial two-year license are combined | Included in $85 application fee |
Total Government Fees Application + license ($85) + written exam ($65) + practical exam ($95) | $245 |
Cosmetology School Tuition: $5,000–$18,000
Varies by school; NOT a government fee. Mississippi cosmetology schools range from community college programs to private institutions.
License & Renewal
Initial License Term
2 years
Renewal Cycle
2 years
Renewal Fee
$50
Continuing Education
Not required
Late Renewal Fee
$50
Reciprocity & Endorsement
Mostly verifiedMississippi allows reciprocity for individuals holding a current license from another state with a reciprocal agreement. Applicants must complete a reciprocity application, cause an affidavit or certification to be issued by the licensing board from their training state, and appear for an application eligibility interview with documents.
Additional Requirements: Application under reciprocity or UROLA costs $55; must present documents at in-person eligibility interview
Related Licenses in Mississippi
Esthetician
Separate LicenseSkin care, facials, and related services
Nail Technician
Separate LicenseManicures, pedicures, and nail services
Barber
IncludedHair cutting, shaving, and barbering services
Special Notes
Mississippi requires a minimum 9-month training period in addition to the 1,500 hour requirement. The state also waives renewal fees for licensees 70 years of age or older. The Board of Cosmetology and Barbering regulates both professions under one entity, though they are separate license types. Mississippi requires an in-person eligibility interview for reciprocity applicants.
Training must be completed over a minimum of 9 months
Curriculum must include at least 230 hours of theory and 1,200 hours of practical training
No renewal fee for any licensee 70 years of age or older
Duplicate license costs $10
No apprenticeship programs are available in Mississippi
Sources
Official Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering website
Accessed 2026-02-24
State requirements listing
Accessed 2026-02-24
State requirements guide
Accessed 2026-02-24
Online licensure portal
Accessed 2026-02-24
Official Mississippi fee schedule
Accessed 2026-02-24
Find Cosmetology Schools in Mississippi
Mississippi 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.