How to Become a Cosmetologist in Washington

Who can apply

• You must be at least 17 years old (RCW 18.16.100).
• You must graduate from an approved, licensed school with at least 1,600 hours, or complete a state-approved apprenticeship of at least 3,000 hours.
• You must pass the state-approved written and practical exams given by Prov.

Step by step

1. Enroll in a licensed cosmetology school (1,600 hours minimum), or join a registered apprenticeship program approved by the Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) and DOL (3,000 hours minimum).
2. When you are within 100 hours of finishing, your school or program verifies your eligibility. Create a Prov account at provexam.com and schedule your exams.
3. Pass the NIC written exam and the NIC practical exam with Prov. You may take each exam once per day; a retake needs a new re-exam fee.
4. Finish all required hours.
5. Submit the Cosmetologist license application online (SecureAccess Washington account) or by mail, and pay the $35 license fee.
6. Start working only after you receive your license; the law requires licenses to be posted.

Official application →

Training and exam

Training: School route: at least 1,600 hours at an approved, licensed school (schools may require more). Apprenticeship route: at least 3,000 hours in a registered apprenticeship overseen by L&I, with on-the-job training in an approved salon under journey-level trainers and related supplemental instruction under a licensed instructor. Training must include the minimums in WAC 308-20-080, such as at least 100 hours each of manicuring/pedicuring and esthetics skills.

Exam: Since May 1, 2026, Prov (replacing Prometric) gives Washington's exams: the NIC written exam and NIC practical exam. DOL says the written exam costs $169 and the practical exam $119, paid directly to Prov. You become eligible within 100 hours of finishing training. You may take each exam once per day and must pay a re-exam fee to retake.

What it costs in Washington

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 run two years. The renewal fee is $66 ($131 if late). A license not renewed within one year after expiration is canceled, and you must reapply, meet current requirements and pass any required exams (RCW 18.16.110).

Good to know in Washington

Licensed in another state: If you are at least 17 and hold an active license in good standing elsewhere, apply by reciprocity ($60) with proof of your license and proof you passed that jurisdiction's approved exams.

Military families: Military training may count toward requirements, and military spouses or partners moving with a current out-of-state license may qualify for a temporary license.

Other licenses: DOL also licenses barbers, manicurists, estheticians, master estheticians (450 hours) and hair designers (1,400 hours).

Sources

• WA DOL - Get your license: Cosmetology
• WA DOL - Cosmetology apprenticeship program
• WA DOL - Fees: Cosmetologists
• WA DOL - Frequently asked questions: Cosmetologists
• RCW 18.16.100 - License requirements
• RCW 18.16.110 - Renewals and reinstatement
• WAC 308-20-080 - Minimum instruction requirements