How to Transfer Your Cosmetologist License from Illinois to Indiana

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

Quick Comparison

Requirement	Illinois (IL)	Indiana (IN)
Total Cost	$137	$139
Training Hours	1,500 hrs	1,500 hrs
Exam Required	Yes	Yes
Renewal Period	2 years	4 years; renewal notices sent approximately 90 days prior to expiration
Reciprocity	By endorsement	By endorsement

Can You Transfer Your Cosmetologist License?

Indiana has limited or no reciprocity

Indiana grants reciprocity for applicants with at least 1,500 training hours (or equivalent work experience) from another state. One year of licensed practice equals 100 hours of education for those with 1,000+ hours already completed. The originating state must have required at least a 70% passing score on exams.

Additional requirements: Applicants must pass an exam on Indiana regulations. Reciprocity license fee is $100.

What You'll Need to Do in Indiana

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

1
Be at least 18 years old (or 17 with high school diploma/GED) and have completed at least 10th grade education
2
Complete 1,500 hours of cosmetology training at a state-approved beauty culture school (or qualifying DOL apprenticeship program)
3
Register with PSI Exams to schedule written and practical examinations
4
Pass the written examination (110 questions, 75% passing score)
5
Pass the practical examination (haircutting, chemical waving, hair coloring)
6
Submit license application and $40 fee through the Indiana PLA online portal
7
Disclose any criminal conviction records as required
8
Receive cosmetology license

Cost Comparison

Illinois Fees

Application Fee$30
Exam Fee$107
License Fee$30
Education Cost$8,000–$22,000
Total$137

Indiana Fees

Application Fee$40.00
Exam Fee$59
License Fee$40.00
Education Cost$15,000–$25,000
Total$139

Estimated Timeline

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

Explore More

Illinois Cosmetologist License

Full requirements, fees, and steps

Indiana Cosmetologist License

Full requirements, fees, and steps

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my cosmetologist license from Illinois to Indiana?▾

Indiana may accept out-of-state cosmetologist credentials. Indiana grants reciprocity for applicants with at least 1,500 training hours (or equivalent work experience) from another state. One year of licensed practice equals 100 hours of education for those with 1,000+ hours already completed. The originating state must have required at least a 70% passing score on exams.

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

Government fees for a cosmetologist license in Indiana total approximately $139. Additional costs may include exam fees, background checks, and education requirements.

How long does it take to transfer a cosmetologist license from Illinois to Indiana?▾

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

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

Indiana requires a cosmetologist exam. Out-of-state licensees may or may not be exempt — check with the Indiana 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 Illinois and Indiana licensing boards before making decisions. LicenseMap is not a government agency and does not guarantee the accuracy of this information.

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