Cosmetologist
Montana
Cosmetologist License Requirements
Governing Authority
Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists (Department of Labor and Industry)
Official website →2,000 hrs
Training Hours
Written + Practical
Exam Type
2 years (biennial)
Renewal Cycle
$230
Gov. Fees
How to Get Licensed
VerifiedComplete 2,000 hours of training at a Montana Board-approved cosmetology school (or 2,000-hour apprenticeship under HB 336)
Be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or GED
Submit proof of graduation and transcripts from approved school
Register with Prov, Inc. for NIC written and practical exams
Pass both the NIC Written Exam and NIC Practical Exam with a score of 75% or better
Submit application with $85 fee and $45 license fee to the Montana Board
Receive cosmetology license
Basic Requirements
Minimum Age
18 years old
Education Level
High school diploma or GED
Residency
No state residency requirement
Background Check
Not required
Training Requirements
Total Training Hours
2,000 hours
Cosmetology school or apprenticeship
Apprenticeship Alternative
2,000 hours required
Under HB 336 (2025 Legislature), apprenticeships are now available for cosmetology licensure. Minimum 2,000 hours with 144 hours of coursework required. Mentors may supervise no more than two apprentices per sponsor. Rules took effect 11/22/2025.
Online Hours Allowed
Not specified
Curriculum Includes
Scope of Practice
Mostly verifiedCosmetologists in Montana are licensed to perform hair cutting, styling, coloring, permanent waving, chemical straightening, manicuring, pedicuring, facials, skin care, and makeup application.
Examination
Written Exam
NIC Written (Theory) Exam
- Administered by
- Prov, Inc.
- Questions
- 110
- Time
- 90 minutes
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- $50
Computer-based NIC theory exam with 110 MCQs (100 scored). Must score 75% or higher to pass.
Practical Exam
NIC Practical Exam
- Administered by
- Prov, Inc.
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- $50
Hands-on practical exam demonstrating competency in cosmetology services. Must score 75% or higher.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee | $85 |
Exam Fee Approximately $50 per exam component (written + practical) | $100 |
License Fee | $45 |
Total Government Fees Application ($85) + exam ($100) + license ($45) | $230 |
Cosmetology School Tuition: $10,000–$20,000
Varies by school. NOT a government fee.
License & Renewal
Initial License Term
Up to 2 years (expires March 1 of every other year)
Renewal Cycle
2 years (biennial)
Renewal Fee
$80
Continuing Education
Not required
Reciprocity & Endorsement
VerifiedMontana does not have reciprocity agreements with other states. Out-of-state applicants must apply and pay the associated application fee. Applications are considered under the 'out-of-state' licensing rule for the particular license type.
Additional Requirements: Must apply under out-of-state licensing rules
Related Licenses in Montana
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
Montana requires 2,000 training hours (higher than the typical 1,500), and recently legalized apprenticeships under HB 336 in 2025 with new board rules effective November 2025. Montana explicitly states it has no reciprocity agreements with other states.
Montana requires 2,000 hours of training, which is higher than many states.
HB 336 (2025 Legislature) legalized apprenticeship pathways for cosmetology, with new rules effective 11/22/2025.
Montana does not have reciprocity agreements with any states.
Renewal period runs January 2 through March 1 of every other year.
Sources
Official Montana DLI website
Accessed 2026-02-24
Administrative rules for HB 336 apprenticeship
Accessed 2026-02-24
Accessed 2026-02-24
Find Cosmetology Schools in Montana
Montana requires 2,000 hours of cosmetology training. Find approved schools and programs near you.
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