South Carolina Cosmetology License Information

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

Cosmetologist: 1500 hours
Esthetician: 450 hours
Nail Technician: 300 hours
Barber 1500 hours

Licensing Fee Schedule: (Fees subject to change)

Cosmetology fee schedule is for all fields.

Written Exam: $55
Practical Exam: $65
Two-Year License: $30
Reciprocity: $60

Barber fee schedule is as follows.

License and Exam: $140
Renewal: $80

Continuing Education Requirements:

Continuing Education is required to renew a license. To maintain professional competency, cosmetologists, nail technicians and estheticians must obtain six hours of continuing education every year. No continuing Education is required at this time for barbers.

Reciprocity:
Cosmetologists and estheticians that are already licensed in another state may apply for reciprocal licensure. Individuals must provide the Board with sufficient proof he/she was licensed by examination in another state which has licensing qualifications equal to, or greater than, those of South Carolina, and his/her license must be current and in good standing.
The completed application will need to include the applicant's age and he/she will have the ability to read, write, and comprehend the English language in order to prevent the unlawful use of hazardous and harmful chemicals.
Reciprocity for barbers may differ.

Contact Information:
South Carolina Board of Cosmetology
PO Box 11329
Columbia, S.C. 29211-1329
803-896-4568
www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/Cosmetology
www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/Barber