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Cosmetology is much more than just cutting hair – as a professional stylist, you’ll be expected to be familiar with the latest cutting techniques, color formulations and product offerings. To learn all these things – and to earn the license you’ll need to practice cosmetology in your state – you’ll need to attend an approved cosmetology program. However, there are a wide variety of beauty school programs – some good and some bad – so you’ll need to do your research before you sign up. Consider the following advice before choosing a cosmetology program.
Like many other careers, you’ll need a license to work as a cosmetologist. Typically, you’ll need to complete a state-approved educational program before taking your licensing exam, which involves both written segments and practical, hands-on skills tests.
Practicing without a license can lead to serious consequences, so it’s important to follow the specific rules in your state before you begin working. The following are some of the requirements you’ll need to fulfill before obtaining your license:
Minimum age
Different states have different licensing requirements, but almost all states require applicants to be a minimum age before applying for their licenses. Typically, the age is somewhere between 16-18 years of age – again, it’s important to do your homework and find out what the specific requirement is in your home state.
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Minimum education level
Most states require cosmetology license applicants to have completed a certain level of K-12 education in order to qualify to receive a license. In Michigan, for example, applicants must have completed a ninth-grade education, while other state’s requirements range from an eighth-grade education to a high school diploma. The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that cosmetologists entering the field have the basic language and math skills necessary to work in the industry.
Completion of an approved cosmetology program
Beyond traditional K-12 education, cosmetologists need to attend and satisfactorily complete a state-approved cosmetology program before applying for a license. In these programs, you’ll learn both the theory and techniques of cosmetology. It is this training that will prepare you to carry out the day-to-day tasks of a cosmetologist.
If you’re currently in the process of applying to cosmetology programs, it’s extremely important to be sure your program is approved by the state – otherwise, you may be required to complete a second program before taking your licensing exam. If you have any doubts, contact your state’s licensing agency before you sign up for classes.
Completion of an apprenticeship program
Some states require cosmetology license applicants to complete a certain number of hours in an apprenticeship program before they’re eligible to take the licensing exam. Some states specify where and how the apprenticeship can be carried out, while others allow applicants to work at any facility until they accrue the required number of hours. Again, check with your state’s licensing board to find out what the specific requirements are in your area.
License application
Once you’ve completed your required educational programs and apprenticeship hours, you’ll likely have to go through an application process before you can take your exam. Your state will typically require you to prove that you’ve completed each step in the process, either through online forms or mail-in application documents. When your application has been approved, you can sign up for the final step in the process – the licensing exam.
Licensing exam
The specifics of what you’ll be tested on varies based on your state, but, in most cases, you’ll take a written test and demonstrate your skills through a practical exam. Many states offer study guides to help you prepare, and you should definitely take advantage of these opportunities. If you pass your exam, you’ll be mailed your license and will be considered eligible to begin working as a full-fledged cosmetologist.
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