Cosmetologist
Vermont
Cosmetologist License Requirements
Governing Authority
Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists (Office of Professional Regulation, Secretary of State)
Official website →1,500 hrs
Training Hours
Written + Practical
Exam Type
2 years (biennial, odd-numbered years by November 30)
Renewal Cycle
$275
Gov. Fees
How to Get Licensed
VerifiedComplete 1,500 hours at a licensed cosmetology school (or 2,000 hours through supervised apprenticeship)
Be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or GED
Be approved for testing by the Vermont Board and Prov/PCS
Register with Prov, Inc. for written and practical exams
Pass both the NIC Written Exam and NIC Practical Exam with 75% or better
Submit license application with $275 fee to the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation
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
1,500 hours
Cosmetology school or apprenticeship
Apprenticeship Alternative
2,000 hours required
Applicants may complete 2,000 hours through a Board-approved supervised apprenticeship as an alternative to 1,500 hours of cosmetology school.
Online Hours Allowed
Not specified
Curriculum Includes
Scope of Practice
Mostly verifiedCosmetologists in Vermont are licensed to perform hair cutting, styling, coloring, permanent waving, chemical texturing, manicuring, pedicuring, facials, skin care, and related beauty services.
Examination
Written Exam
NIC Written Exam
- Administered by
- Prov, Inc. (formerly Professional Credential Services / PCS)
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- Included in $275 initial license fee
Computer-based NIC written exam. Must score 75% or higher to pass.
Practical Exam
NIC Practical Exam
- Administered by
- Prov, Inc. (formerly PCS)
- Passing Score
- 75%
- Fee
- Included in $275 initial license fee
Hands-on practical exam demonstrating competency in cosmetology services. Must score 75% or higher.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee Initial license fee that includes examination fees | $275 |
Exam Fee Exam fees included in the $275 initial license fee | $0 |
License Fee Included in the $275 initial fee | $0 |
Total Government Fees All-inclusive initial license fee including exams | $275 |
Cosmetology School Tuition: $10,000–$18,000
Average VT cosmetology school cost is ~$14,152. NOT a government fee.
License & Renewal
Initial License Term
Up to 2 years (expires November 30 of odd-numbered years)
Renewal Cycle
2 years (biennial, odd-numbered years by November 30)
Renewal Fee
$130
Continuing Education
Not required
Reciprocity & Endorsement
VerifiedVermont does not offer automatic reciprocity. Applicants holding a current cosmetology license from another state may apply through endorsement if: (1) their license was earned through substantially equivalent means, (2) they have been actively practicing for at least three years, or (3) they can provide proof of 2,000 documented hours of work completed within one year.
Additional Requirements: Must demonstrate substantially equivalent qualifications or 3+ years of active practice
Related Licenses in Vermont
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
Vermont has one of the highest combined initial licensing costs at $275 (including exams), plus the renewal fee is $130 biennially. Despite higher fees, Vermont has no continuing education requirement and allows a 2,000-hour apprenticeship alternative.
Vermont's initial license fee of $275 is among the highest initial fees nationally, but it includes exam costs.
Vermont's biennial renewal fee of $130 is also relatively high.
Licenses expire on November 30 of odd-numbered years.
Vermont offers an apprenticeship alternative at 2,000 hours (vs. 1,500 school hours).
Sources
Official Vermont Secretary of State website
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Find Cosmetology Schools in Vermont
Vermont requires 1,500 hours of cosmetology training. Find approved schools and programs near you.
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