Overview

Cosmetologists provide hair, skin, and nail services. All 50 states require a license. Requirements include completing a state-approved program and passing written and practical exams.

1,500 program hours. NIC exams.

License tiers and what each allows

LicenseWhat you can doExam required
Cosmetology Student Training level. Work under supervision. No independent work. Registration only
Licensed Cosmetologist Install, repair, and maintain systems under supervision or independently in most states. Yes. State licensing exam (~$60 fee)
Cosmetology Instructor Full independent work, supervise others, pull permits, design systems. Yes. Advanced state exam

Step-by-step path

1

Register as an apprentice

Register with New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics before starting work. This is required to legally accumulate supervised hours toward your journeyman qualification. Some states charge a small registration fee.

2

Accumulate 1,500 hours of supervised experience

Work under a licensed journeyman or master cosmetologist. This takes approximately 1 years at full-time hours. Your employer is required to verify your hours when you apply for the journeyman exam.

3

Pass the journeyman licensing exam

The exam covers NIC Written and Practical Exam requirements and state-specific rules. Exam fee is $60. Most candidates study 4-8 weeks using a state-approved prep guide before sitting for the test.

4

Apply for your journeyman license

Submit your application to New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics after passing the exam. License fee is $55. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. Your employer's verification of your hours is required at this stage.

5

Renew annual

Your New Hampshire license renews annual. Renewal fee is $55. Some states require continuing education at renewal. Always renew on time to avoid a lapse in licensure.

Fee summary

ItemFee
Apprentice registrationVaries (check board)
Journeyman exam$60
Journeyman license$55
License renewal (annual)$55
Fees change. Confirm current amounts directly with New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics before applying. The figures above were verified in April 2026.
New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics official site

Frequently asked questions

Can I transfer my cosmetologist license from another state to New Hampshire?
Most states do not have formal reciprocity agreements. However, New Hampshire may consider out-of-state experience during your application review. Contact New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics directly to discuss your situation before applying.
How long does it take to get a journeyman license in New Hampshire?
Minimum 1 years of full-time supervised work (1,500 hours), plus exam prep time (typically 4-8 weeks), plus New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics processing time (2-4 weeks).
Can AI replace a licensed cosmetologist?
Cosmetology is entirely physical, client-facing, and regulated under state public health codes. Licensing protects public safety. No remote or automated substitute exists. State licensing laws require a human licensee to be responsible for this work. That structural requirement protects this trade from automation.
What is the median salary for a cosmetologist in New Hampshire?
The national median is $33,400/yr. New Hampshire salaries vary based on metropolitan area, union membership, and specialization. Master-level licenses and contractor status can significantly increase earnings.