How to Transfer Your Cosmetologist License from Massachusetts to Connecticut

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

Quick Comparison

Requirement	Massachusetts (MA)	Connecticut (CT)
Total Cost	$291	$165
Training Hours	1,000 hrs	1 hrs
Exam Required	Yes	Yes
Renewal Period	2 years (expires on licensee's birthday)	2 years (biennial, by last day of birth month)
Reciprocity	By endorsement	Endorsement/out-of-state license pathway

Can You Transfer Your Cosmetologist License?

Connecticut has limited or no reciprocity

Connecticut offers licensure for out-of-state applicants who hold an active license based on completion of a training program (1,500+ hours) and passing a licensing exam, in good standing with no pending disciplinary actions. Application fee is $100. Those without an exam-based license may qualify with 5+ years of documented work experience.

Additional requirements: Active out-of-state license with equivalent training (1,500+ hours) and exam passage; $100 application fee

What You'll Need to Do in Connecticut

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

1
Complete at least 9th grade education or GED equivalent
2
Complete 1,500 hours of training at a CT State Board-approved cosmetology school
3
Schedule and pass the written exam through Prometric ($65 exam fee, 100 questions, 2 hours)
4
Submit your license application to CT DPH with the $100 application fee
5
Application can be submitted online or by mail to CT DPH at 410 Capitol Avenue, P.O. Box 340308, Hartford, CT 06134
6
Processing time is approximately 3-4 weeks after complete documentation submission
7
Receive your Registered Hairdresser and Cosmetician license

Cost Comparison

Massachusetts Fees

Application Fee$68
Exam Fee$155
License Fee$68
Education Cost$5,000–$15,000
Total$291

Connecticut Fees

Application Fee$100.00
Exam Fee$65
License Fee$100.00 (included in the application fee — no separate license issuance fee listed)
Education Cost$8,000-$20,000
Total$165

Estimated Timeline

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

Explore More

Massachusetts Cosmetologist License

Full requirements, fees, and steps

Connecticut Cosmetologist License

Full requirements, fees, and steps

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my cosmetologist license from Massachusetts to Connecticut?▾

Connecticut may accept out-of-state cosmetologist credentials. Connecticut offers licensure for out-of-state applicants who hold an active license based on completion of a training program (1,500+ hours) and passing a licensing exam, in good standing with no pending disciplinary actions. Application fee is $100. Those without an exam-based license may qualify with 5+ years of documented work experience.

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

Government fees for a cosmetologist license in Connecticut total approximately $165. Additional costs may include exam fees, background checks, and education requirements.

How long does it take to transfer a cosmetologist license from Massachusetts to Connecticut?▾

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

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

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

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