How to Become a Cosmetologist in Kentucky

Who can apply

• You must be at least 18 years old.
• You must have a high school diploma, a High School Equivalency Diploma, or TABE results equal to 12th grade.
• You must be of good moral character and temperate habit.
• You must graduate from a licensed cosmetology school requiring 1,500 hours, completed within 5 years of enrolling.

Step by step

1. Enroll in a licensed cosmetology school. Students receive a $25 enrollment certificate from KBC.
2. Complete 1,500 hours within 5 years of enrolling.
3. Pass the written exam and the practical exam given by PSI. Since June 1, 2026, all practical exams are held at PSI's Lexington testing center.
4. Apply through KBC's online portal with a recent photo, a current government photo ID and the $50 initial license fee.
5. Wait for your license or license verification before providing any services.

Official application →

Training and exam

Training: KRS 317A.050 requires graduation from a licensed school of cosmetology requiring 1,500 hours, completed within 5 years of enrolling. The state board or agency that certifies cosmetology schools must certify your graduation. Kentucky's cosmetology law does not list an apprenticeship route.

Exam: Kentucky requires a written (theory) exam and a practical exam, both administered by PSI. You must pass the theory exam before you can apply for and schedule the practical, and theory scores are valid for six months. Since June 1, 2026, practical exams are held only at PSI's center at 333 Waller Ave., Suite 120, Lexington. For the practical you need two forms of valid ID (one a state government photo ID), solid-color scrubs (not white), EPA-registered disinfectant, and a mannequin head and hand. Late arrivals must reschedule and pay a new fee. KBC lists the examination fee as $85, and $85 for each retake.

What it costs in Kentucky

Fixed amounts are set by the state. Items marked “your quote” are priced by private sellers, so enter what you’re quoted.

Keeping your license

Renewal: Renew online from July 1 through July 31 of each even-numbered year. The biennial renewal fee is $100. If you miss the July 31 deadline, the license becomes inactive and you must pay a restoration fee plus annual renewal fees for each lapsed year. A Kentucky license expired more than 5 years requires passing an exam again. KBC does not list a continuing education requirement for cosmetologists.

Good to know in Kentucky

Licensed in another state: You can transfer by endorsement ($100). You need 1,500 hours and 12th-grade education, and every state where you trained or held a license must send an active certification directly to kbc@ky.gov. KBC may require more education or exams after reviewing your file.

2026 changes: Kentucky moved from annual to biennial renewal starting July 2026, and moved all practical exams to PSI's Lexington center on June 1, 2026.

Other licenses: KBC also licenses estheticians (750 hours), nail technicians (450 hours) and shampoo stylists (300 hours), plus specialty permits such as eyelash and makeup artistry.

Sources

• KBC - License Requirements
• KBC - Exams
• KBC - Fees
• KBC - License Renewal Information
• KBC - Out of State Info
• KRS 317A.050 - Qualifications for licenses and permits