Overview
Delaware requires a state-issued license to work independently as a cosmetologist. Licensing is administered by Delaware Board of Cosmetology and Barbering. Requirements include supervised experience, a written exam, and payment of licensing fees.
Always verify current requirements directly with Delaware Board of Cosmetology and Barbering before beginning your application, as rules can change.
^ TopLicense tiers and what each allows
| License | What you can do | Exam required |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetology Student | Enrolled in a state-approved cosmetology program. | None — enrollment only |
| Licensed Cosmetologist | Authorized to perform cosmetology services independently. | Written + practical state exam |
| Cosmetology Instructor | Teach cosmetology in approved schools. | Additional instructor exam |
Step-by-step path
Enroll in a state-approved cosmetology program
Complete 1,500 hours at a Delaware Board of Cosmetology and Barbering-approved school. Programs typically take 12-18 months full-time.
Pass the state board exam
The exam has a written (theory) and practical (hands-on) section. Administered by a national testing provider.
Apply for your license
Submit your application with exam results to Delaware Board of Cosmetology and Barbering. Processing takes 2-4 weeks.
Renew biennially
Your Delaware cosmetology license renews every two years. Continuing education may be required.
Fee summary
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Application / registration | Varies (check board) |
| Licensing exam | $55 |
| License issuance | Varies (check board) |
| License renewal (biennial) | Varies (check board) |
Salary by experience level
Wages vary by license level, metro area, and union status. The estimates below reflect typical ranges nationally; Delaware wages are approximately $30,980/yr at journeyman level (BLS May 2024 median).
| Stage | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | $12–$17/hr | Supervised training period; wage increases each year |
| Journeyman | $15–$25/hr | After licensure; independent work authorized |
| Master / Contractor | $25–$50/hr | Supervisory authority, permit rights, contractor eligibility |
Realistic timeline: start to licensed
Here is a realistic calendar for someone starting from scratch with no prior experience.
| Phase | Duration | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetology school enrollment | 1–2 weeks | Apply to a state-approved, NACCAS-accredited cosmetology program. |
| Complete required training hours | 1–2 years | Complete 1,000–1,800 supervised training hours (varies by state) at an approved school. |
| State board exam — written | 1–4 weeks to schedule | Pass the written theory exam covering anatomy, chemistry, sanitation, and state law. |
| State board exam — practical | Same period | Pass the practical skills demonstration before an examiner. |
| License application processing | 2–4 weeks | Submit application with school transcript, exam results, and application fee. |
Union vs. independent path
Cosmetology does not have a traditional union apprenticeship model. Licensing requires completing an accredited school program rather than employer-supervised hours. Both paths lead to the same state license — the difference is in how you accumulate your hours and the employment benefits you receive during training.
| Union (No major union; independent salon ownership common) | Non-union / independent | |
|---|---|---|
| Training path | Accredited cosmetology school (required) | Apprenticeship programs exist in a few states as alternative |
| Program length | 1,000–1,800 hours (1–2 years) | Same hour requirement, different delivery |
| Cost | $6,000–$20,000 tuition (financial aid available) | Lower cost in states that allow apprenticeships |
| Job placement | School placement programs, salon recruiting | Salon that sponsors apprenticeship often hires graduates |
| Licensing exam | State written + practical board exam | Same exam regardless of training path |
| Career path | Employee stylist → independent booth renter → salon owner | Same career ladder |
Transferring your license from another state
Cosmetology license reciprocity is more available than most trades. Many states have endorsement processes where you can apply for a license if you hold an active license in another state and your training hours meet minimum requirements. The National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) administers exams in most states, which aids portability.
If you currently hold a cosmetologist license in another state and want to work in Delaware, contact the Delaware Division of Revenue / professional licensing boards directly before applying. Bring documentation of your current license, your work history, and your exam scores — many boards will expedite review for out-of-state applicants with equivalent credentials.
EMT / Paramedic is another fast-to-license career path. See the EMT license guide for Delaware to compare training timelines.
If you're comparing licensing paths by time and cost, see the Electrician license guide for Delaware.
Exam registration & resources
Where to register for your licensing exam and track your application.
- PSI Exams — Cosmetology written exam Most states use PSI for the cosmetology theory (written) exam. Register online and choose a test center near you. candidate.psiexams.com
- Pearson VUE — Cosmetology licensing exams Some states use Pearson VUE for cosmetology written exams. home.pearsonvue.com
- PearsonJam / NICS — Cosmetology practical exam ITS administers cosmetology practical (skills) exams in many states. Check if your state uses this provider. itstesting.com
Cosmetologist Jobs in Delaware
Current openings near you — updated daily.
Job listings via Adzuna