How to Transfer Your Cosmetologist License from California to Washington

Side-by-side comparison of requirements, costs, and reciprocity. Updated 2026.

Quick Comparison

Requirement	California (CA)	Washington (WA)
Total Cost	$125	$329
Training Hours	1,000 hrs	1,600 hrs
Exam Required	Yes	Yes
Renewal Period	2 years	2 years (biennial)
Reciprocity	By endorsement	reciprocity

Can You Transfer Your Cosmetologist License?

Washington has limited or no reciprocity

Washington offers license reciprocity for cosmetologists licensed in other states. Applicants must provide proof of active license in good standing. If the originating state uses NIC examinations, retesting may not be required. Otherwise, Washington state exams may be needed.

Additional requirements: Reciprocity application fee of $60. Must provide proof of current license in good standing from home state.

What You'll Need to Do in Washington

These are the standard licensing steps in Washington. As a licensed cosmetologist from California, you may already satisfy some of these requirements.

1
Be at least 17 years old and possess a high school diploma or equivalent
2
Complete 1,600 hours of cosmetology training at a DOL-approved school, OR 2,000 hours through an apprenticeship program
3
Register for and pass the NIC written exam through D.L. Roope Administrations ($180 fee)
4
Register for and pass the NIC practical exam through D.L. Roope Administrations ($114 fee)
5
Complete the official cosmetologist license application form
6
Submit application with $35 fee online via SecureAccess Washington (SAW) for faster processing, or by mail
7
Receive your Washington cosmetology license

Cost Comparison

California Fees

Application Fee$75
Exam Fee$Included in $75 application fee
License Fee$50
Education Cost$5,000–$20,000
Total$125

Washington Fees

Application Fee$35
Exam Fee$294
Education Cost$5,000–$20,000
Total$329

Estimated Timeline

Timeline varies based on your credentials, reciprocity eligibility, and Washington's current processing times. Contact the state licensing board for current estimates.

Explore More

California Cosmetologist License

Full requirements, fees, and steps

Washington Cosmetologist License

Full requirements, fees, and steps

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my cosmetologist license from California to Washington?▾

Washington may accept out-of-state cosmetologist credentials. Washington offers license reciprocity for cosmetologists licensed in other states. Applicants must provide proof of active license in good standing. If the originating state uses NIC examinations, retesting may not be required. Otherwise, Washington state exams may be needed.

How much does it cost to transfer a cosmetologist license to Washington?▾

Government fees for a cosmetologist license in Washington total approximately $329. Additional costs may include exam fees, background checks, and education requirements.

How long does it take to transfer a cosmetologist license from California to Washington?▾

Processing times vary by state. Contact the Washington licensing board for current timelines.

Do I need to retake the cosmetologist exam when moving to Washington?▾

Washington requires a cosmetologist exam. Out-of-state licensees may or may not be exempt — check with the Washington licensing board for current reciprocity policies.

Moving to another state? Use our Transfer Tool to see what you need →

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Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only. Licensing requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements, fees, and reciprocity policies directly with the California and Washington licensing boards before making decisions. LicenseMap is not a government agency and does not guarantee the accuracy of this information.

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