Cosmetologist
Nevada
Cosmetologist License Requirements
1,600 hrs
Training Hours
Written + Practical
Exam Type
2 years (expires on licensee's birthday)
Renewal Cycle
$195
Gov. Fees
How to Get Licensed
VerifiedComplete 1,600 hours of cosmetology training at a Board-approved school (or 3,200 apprenticeship hours)
Submit application with $15 fee to the Nevada State Board of Cosmetology
Schedule and pass the theory exam and state law exam at a Pearson VUE testing center
Schedule and pass the practical exam at the Board office
Pay $70 license fee upon passing all exams
Receive cosmetology license
Basic Requirements
Minimum Age
18 years old
Education Level
10th grade education or equivalent
Residency
Must be a citizen of the U.S. or lawfully authorized to work in the U.S.
Background Check
Not required
Training Requirements
Total Training Hours
1,600 hours
Cosmetology school or apprenticeship
Apprenticeship Alternative
3,200 hours required
Apprenticeship available for individuals living more than 60 miles from a Board-approved cosmetology school. Requires 3,200 hours of training under the guidance of a licensed cosmetologist in a licensed establishment.
Online Hours Allowed
Not specified; practical training must be in-person
Curriculum Includes
Scope of Practice
Mostly verifiedCosmetologists in Nevada may perform hair cutting, styling, coloring, chemical treatments (perming, straightening), nail services, skin care, facial treatments, makeup application, and hair removal. The full scope of practice includes all services within cosmetology as defined by NRS Chapter 644A.
Examination
Written Exam
Nevada Theory Exam
- Administered by
- Pearson VUE
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- $110
Theory test and state law test administered at Pearson VUE locations. The state law test has 25 questions requiring 75% to pass. The $110 examination fee covers both written/theory and practical portions.
Practical Exam
Nevada Practical Exam
- Administered by
- Nevada State Board of Cosmetology
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- Included in $110 exam fee
Practical tests are offered at the Board office in Las Vegas. Evaluates candidates on practical cosmetology skills.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee | $15 |
Exam Fee Written and practical combined | $110 |
License Fee 2-year license fee | $70 |
Total Government Fees Application ($15) + exam ($110) + license ($70) | $195 |
Cosmetology School Tuition: $15,000–$25,000
Varies by school; NOT a government fee. Avalon Institute ~$17,650; Academy of Hair Design ~$24,150; average ~$18,448.
License & Renewal
Initial License Term
2 years (expires on licensee's birthday)
Renewal Cycle
2 years (expires on licensee's birthday)
Renewal Fee
$70
Continuing Education
4 hours — 4 hours of approved continuing education per renewal cycle
Reciprocity & Endorsement
VerifiedNevada allows license reciprocity for applicants whose out-of-state license is active and in good standing with no disciplinary action, from a state included on Nevada's reciprocity list, and accompanied by successful completion of the Nevada law exam. Applicants must have passed a NIC written exam in their state of licensure, or take the exam in Nevada.
Additional Requirements: Must pass Nevada law exam; license must be active and in good standing with no disciplinary action
Related Licenses in Nevada
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
Nevada is one of only a few states that requires a separate state law exam in addition to the standard theory and practical exams. The apprenticeship path is uniquely restricted to those living more than 60 miles from a Board-approved school. Nevada also offers a 4-year license option ($140) in addition to the standard 2-year license ($70).
Nevada includes a separate state law exam in addition to the theory and practical exams (25 questions, 75% passing score)
4-year license renewal option is available for $140
Apprenticeship is only available for individuals living more than 60 miles from a Board-approved school
Retake exam fee is $95
Sources
Official Nevada State Board of Cosmetology website
Accessed 2026-02-24
Official Nevada licensing info
Accessed 2026-02-24
State requirements listing
Accessed 2026-02-24
Pearson VUE scheduling page
Accessed 2026-02-24
Official Nevada fee schedule
Accessed 2026-02-24
Official Nevada application forms page
Accessed 2026-02-24
Find Cosmetology Schools in Nevada
Nevada requires 1,600 hours of cosmetology training. Find approved schools and programs near you.
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