New York Cosmetology License Information

In order to obtain a license in Barbering, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Nail Technology, or Waxing in the state of New York, individuals must complete the requirements listed below. Other requirements may apply.

Cosmetologist (hairdresser): 1000 hours
Esthetician: 600 hours
Nail Specialist: 250 hours
Natural Hairstylist: 300 hours
Waxer: 75 hours

If applying for an original application and a temporary license, applicants may submit one $30 application fee. Separate application fees are not required.
The term of licensure is two years. The term for a temporary license is 6 months.

Continuing Education Requirements:

Reciprocity:
Only with the following states, and the individual must be currently licensed by that state, and in some instances must have one (1) or more years of licensure in order to qualify.
Alaska Current Licensure; Arkansas 2 Years and Current Licensure, must submit 2 experience statements; Arizona 1 Year, Current; Colorado 5 Years and Current Licensure; Idaho 3 Years and Current Licensure; Louisiana Current Licensure; Maine Current Licensure; Massachusetts 2 Years and Current Licensure, must submit 2 experience statements; Minnesota 2 Years and Current Licensure; Mississippi Current Licensure; Missouri 5 Years and Current Licensure;
Montana 4 Years and Current Licensure; Nevada Current Licensure; North Carolina Current Licensure; North Dakota 1 Year and Current Licensure; Oklahoma Current Licensure;
Pennsylvania 2 Years and Current Licensure, must submit 2 experience statements;
South Carolina Current Licensure; South Dakota Current Licensure; Tennessee 2 Years and Current Licensure; Vermont 2 Years and Current Licensure; Virginia Current Licensure;
Washington, DC 5 Years and Current Licensure.
Contact Information:

New York Dept. of State Division of Licensing Services
84 Holland Ave.
Albany, NY 12208-3490
518-474-4429
www.dos.ny.gov/licensing/