Cosmetologist
Ohio
Cosmetologist License Requirements
1,500 hrs
Training Hours
Written + Practical
Exam Type
2 years
Renewal Cycle
$90
Gov. Fees
How to Get Licensed
VerifiedComplete 1,500 hours of training at a licensed cosmetology school
Be at least 16 years old and have completed the 10th grade
Submit a biometric fingerprint scan for background check
Submit examination application and $40 fee through elicense.ohio.gov
Obtain a temporary work permit ($50) if desired
Receive eligibility email from the Board to schedule exams
Schedule and pass the written examination (70% passing score) through PSI
Schedule and pass the practical examination (70% passing score, ~235 minutes) through PSI
Receive your cosmetology license
Basic Requirements
Minimum Age
16 years old
Education Level
Completion of 10th grade or equivalent
Residency
No residency requirement; out-of-state applicants may apply
Background Check
Applicants must submit a biometric fingerprint scan as part of the application process. The Board conducts a criminal background check through the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI).
Training Requirements
Total Training Hours
1,500 hours
Cosmetology school
Apprenticeship Alternative
Not availableOnline Hours Allowed
Not specified
Curriculum Includes
Scope of Practice
Mostly verifiedCosmetology includes arranging, braiding, dressing, curling, waving, cleansing, cutting, bleaching, coloring, or similarly treating human hair; giving facials, applying cosmetics, performing manicures and pedicures, and other beauty services.
Examination
Written Exam
Ohio Cosmetology Written Examination
- Administered by
- PSI Services
- Questions
- 110
- Time
- 90 minutes
- Passing Score
- 70%
- Fee
- Included in $40 application fee (Written & Practical)
Computer-based multiple-choice exam covering cosmetology theory, safety, sanitation, and Ohio regulations.
Practical Exam
Ohio Cosmetology Practical Examination
- Administered by
- PSI Services
- Passing Score
- 70%
- Fee
- Included in $40 application fee
Hands-on demonstration of cosmetology skills including hair cutting, styling, chemical services, and nail services. Approximately 235 minutes in length.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee Exam application fee for Written & Practical (or $80 for Written, Practical & Advanced) | $40 |
Exam Fee Exam fees are included in the $40 application | Included in application fee |
License Fee Temporary pre-examination work permit ($15 as of January 2, 2025) | $50 |
Total Government Fees Exam application ($40) + work permit ($50). Note: fees were restructured effective January 2, 2025. | $90 |
Cosmetology School Tuition: $8,000–$22,000
Varies by school; NOT a government fee. Ohio requires 1,500 hours, and program costs vary by school.
License & Renewal
Initial License Term
2 years (expires January 31 of odd-numbered years)
Renewal Cycle
2 years
Renewal Fee
$65
Continuing Education
8 hours — 8 hours of continuing education per biennial renewal period. Must include: 2 hours on safety and sanitation, 1 hour on laws and rule updates (provided only by the Board), and 5 hours on subject matter relating to the scope of services.
Reciprocity & Endorsement
VerifiedOut-of-state licensees must submit an Out of State License Application and request a board certification from the state where they hold a current, active license. License certifications must be mailed directly from the issuing Board.
Additional Requirements: Certifications sent from applicants (rather than directly from the Board) will not be accepted.
Related Licenses in Ohio
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
Ohio requires biometric fingerprint scanning for all cosmetology applicants, which is relatively uncommon. The practical exam is approximately 235 minutes long, making it one of the most extensive in the nation. The Board regulates both cosmetology and barbering under a combined entity, and 1 hour of the 8 CE hours must be provided exclusively by the Board itself.
Ohio requires biometric fingerprint scanning as part of the application process.
Fee structure was significantly restructured effective January 2, 2025.
The Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board regulates both cosmetology and barbering under one combined board.
The practical exam is approximately 235 minutes (nearly 4 hours), which is one of the longest in the country.
8 hours of CE are required every 2 years, including a mandatory 1 hour of Board-provided laws and rules training.
Renewal fee is $65 (after June 30, 2025, previously $70).
Sources
Board contact and website
Accessed 2026-02-24
Confirms 1,500 hours
Accessed 2026-02-24
Online portal for exam applications
Accessed 2026-02-24
New fee schedule effective January 2025
Accessed 2026-02-24
Biennial renewal
Accessed 2026-02-24
Find Cosmetology Schools in Ohio
Ohio requires 1,500 hours of cosmetology training. Find approved schools and programs near you.
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