How to Become a Cosmetologist in Tennessee

Who can apply

• You must be at least 16 years old.
• You must complete 1,500 hours of practice and theory at a licensed school of cosmetology.
• You must pass a written (theory) exam and a practical exam given by PSI.

Step by step

1. Complete 1,500 hours of practice and theory at a licensed Tennessee cosmetology school.
2. Your school submits an online exam application to PSI. PSI confirms your eligibility and emails you how to pay and schedule.
3. Pass the theory exam and the practical exam with PSI, either by remote proctoring or at a PSI test center.
4. Complete the Initial Cosmetologist Application in the CORE online licensing portal (core.tn.gov) and pay the $60 fee.
5. Wait for your license by mail. You may not work until you receive it or can confirm you are active at verify.tn.gov.

Official application →

Training and exam

Training: 1,500 hours in practice and theory at a licensed school of cosmetology. The Board publishes a list of licensed cosmetology schools.

Exam: PSI gives both exams: a written theory exam and a practical exam, using national exam content. Remote proctoring is available for both, or you can test at a PSI center. Each part costs $67 (reinstatement exams $35 each). To reschedule without a fee, notify PSI at least 10 business days before the exam. Results are emailed within about two business days.

What it costs in Tennessee

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: Licenses expire every two years. Renew online in CORE starting 60 days before expiration; the cosmetologist renewal fee is $60 and a $25 late fee applies after the expiration date. No continuing education is required for cosmetologists (instructors need 16 hours of approved CE). A license expired more than three years becomes invalid and you must pass reinstatement exams.

Good to know in Tennessee

Licensed in another state: Ask every state board where you were licensed to send a Certification of License, then file the Out of State application in CORE ($100 reciprocity fee). If your training was under 1,500 hours, you must show you practiced as a licensee for at least 1 of the last 3 years or 2 of the last 5 years (tax returns or employer letters). Allow three to four weeks.

Change of address: By statute you must tell the Board about a change of address within 30 days, or update it yourself in CORE.

Other licenses: Tennessee also licenses aestheticians (750 hours), manicurists (600 hours), natural hair stylists (300 hours) and eyelash specialists (300 hours). Barbers are licensed by the same Board under a separate law.

Sources

• TN Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners - Cosmetologist License
• TN Board - PSI & Exam Information
• TN Board - Fees
• TN Board - Renewal, Reciprocity, & Other Resources