Georgia Cosmetology State Requirements

Step-by-Step Georgia Cosmetology Licensing Requirements

Georgia, known as the "Peach State," takes a structured approach to cosmetology licensing, ensuring that professionals receive thorough training before entering the industry. Just as the scenic beauty of Amicalola Falls or the historic charm of Savannah draw admiration, Georgia’s beauty industry thrives on skill, education, and high standards.

Aspiring cosmetologists can choose between traditional cosmetology school and an apprenticeship program, offering flexibility in how they gain experience. Unlike some states, Georgia requires continuing education for license renewal, reinforcing its commitment to keeping professionals up to date with industry trends. The state also offers reciprocity for out-of-state license holders, provided their qualifications align with Georgia’s standards.

Georgia Cosmetology Licensing Requirements

Georgia sets clear standards for cosmetology professionals, ensuring that all licensed individuals meet high levels of training and expertise. Whether you're starting fresh or transferring an out-of-state license, understanding these requirements will help you navigate the process smoothly.

Cosmetologist Licensing Requirements

To legally practice as a cosmetologist in Georgia, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 17 years old.

• Hold a high school diploma, GED, or higher education degree.

• Demonstrate good moral character.

• Complete a 1,500-hour cosmetology program at a Board-approved school (minimum 9 months of study).

• Pass both a written and practical exam approved by the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology.

Once licensed, cosmetologists can provide hair, skin, and nail services in salons or independently.

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Exam Requirements For All Modalities

Applicants must receive a notice of eligibility from the Georgia State Board before scheduling their exam. The licensing exam consists of:

• A written exam covering theoretical knowledge.

• A practical exam testing hands-on skills.

• A minimum passing score of 70% on each section.

If an applicant fails any section, they must retake only the failed portion of the exam.

Continuing Education Requirements For All Modalities

• First-time license renewals do not require continuing education (CE).

• For all subsequent renewals, cosmetologists and all others must complete five (5) hours of CE every two years.

Cosmetology Apprenticeship Program

Georgia offers an apprenticeship pathway as an alternative to traditional cosmetology school. To qualify, apprentices must:

• Be at least 16 years old.

• Train under a licensed master cosmetologist with at least 36 months of experience.

• Register for a 4-year apprenticeship license.

• Complete 3,000 hours of supervised training over at least 18 months.

This hands-on training allows apprentices to earn experience while working under a licensed professional.

License Reciprocity

Georgia grants cosmetology licenses by reciprocity to professionals from states with similar licensing requirements. To apply, individuals must:

• Submit a completed application to the Georgia State Board.

• Provide a copy of their active out-of-state license.

• Request official certification of licensure sent directly from their state board.

• Show proof of good standing from all states where they’ve held a license.

• Pay a $50 application fee.

If the state of origin does not have equivalent requirements, applicants may need to pass additional exams or complete further training.

Cosmetology Instructor Licensing

To become a licensed instructor in Georgia, applicants must:

• Hold a current Georgia cosmetology license.

• Have at least one year of work experience as a licensed professional.

• Provide proof of a high school diploma or GED.

• Complete an instructor training program from a Board-approved school (within four months of application).

• Pass both written and practical instructor exams.

• Pay a $30 application fee.

Stay Covered as a Cosmetologist in Georgia

Building a career in cosmetology requires dedication, skill, and the right protection. Whether you're a hairstylist, esthetician, or instructor, having cosmetology insurance ensures you stay protected from potential risks.

Georgia Esthetician Licensing Requirements

Estheticians in Georgia must meet specific education and training standards before practicing professionally. Whether pursuing a traditional education or an apprenticeship, all applicants must pass state exams and maintain continuing education for license renewal.

Licensing Requirements

To become a licensed esthetician in Georgia, applicants must:

• Be at least 17 years old.

• Hold a high school diploma, GED, or higher education degree.

• Demonstrate good moral character.

• Complete a 1,000-hour esthetics program at a Board-approved school (minimum 9 months) OR complete 2,000 hours as an apprentice under a licensed master esthetician.

• Pass both a written and practical exam approved by the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology.

Esthetician Apprenticeship Program

Aspiring estheticians can complete an apprenticeship instead of a formal school program. Requirements include:

• Be at least 16 years old.

• Train under a licensed master esthetician with at least 36 months of experience.

• Register for a 4-year apprenticeship license.

• Complete 2,000 hours of supervised training over at least 18 months.

License Reciprocity

Georgia grants esthetician licenses by reciprocity to professionals from states with similar licensing requirements. To apply, individuals must:

• Submit a completed application to the Georgia State Board.

• Provide a copy of their active out-of-state license.

• Request official certification of licensure sent directly from their state board.

• Show proof of good standing from all states where they’ve held a license.

• Pay a $50 application fee.

Applicants from states without equivalent standards may need to complete additional training or exams.

Esthetics Instructor Licensing

To teach esthetics in Georgia, instructors must:

• Hold a valid Georgia esthetician license.

• Have at least one year of work experience as a licensed esthetician.

• Provide proof of a high school diploma, GED, or postsecondary education.

• Complete an approved instructor training program with required credit hours.

• Pass both written and practical instructor exams.

• Pay the non-refundable application fee.

Stay Protected as a Licensed Esthetician

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Georgia Hair Stylist Licensing Requirements

Georgia requires hairstylists, also known as hair designers, to complete specific education and training before becoming licensed. Whether pursuing traditional schooling or an apprenticeship, all applicants must pass state exams and meet renewal requirements to stay licensed.

Licensing Requirements

To become a licensed hairstylist in Georgia, applicants must:

• Be at least 17 years old.

• Hold a high school diploma, GED, or higher education degree.

• Demonstrate good moral character.

• Complete a 1,325-hour hair design program at a Board-approved school (minimum 7 months) OR complete 2,650 hours as an apprentice under a licensed master hair designer.

• Pass both a written and practical exam approved by the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology.

Hair Stylist Apprenticeship Program

Aspiring hairstylists can complete an apprenticeship instead of attending cosmetology school. Requirements include:

• Be at least 16 years old.

• Train under a licensed master hairstylist with at least 36 months of experience.

• Register for a 4-year apprenticeship license.

• Complete 2,650 hours of supervised training over at least 14 months.

License Reciprocity

Georgia grants hairstylist licenses by reciprocity to professionals from states with similar licensing requirements. To apply, individuals must:

• Submit a completed application to the Georgia State Board.

• Provide a copy of their active out-of-state license.

• Request official certification of licensure sent directly from their state board.

• Show proof of good standing from all states where they’ve held a license.

• Pay a $50 application fee.

Applicants from states without equivalent standards may need to complete additional training or exams.

Hair Stylist Instructor Licensing

To teach hairstyling in Georgia, instructors must:

• Hold a valid Georgia hairstylist license.

• Have at least one year of work experience as a licensed professional.

• Provide proof of a high school diploma, GED, or postsecondary education.

• Complete an approved instructor training program within four months of application.

• Pass both written and practical instructor exams.

• Pay a $30 application fee.

Stay Protected as a Licensed Hair Stylist

A career in hairstyling requires skill, dedication, and the right protection. Whether you're cutting, coloring, or styling, hairstylist insurance helps shield you from potential risks.

Georgia Nail Technician Licensing Requirements

The licensing requirements for nail technicians in Georgia closely follow those of other beauty professions, including education, exams, continuing education, and reciprocity. However, key differences exist in training hours, apprenticeship requirements, and age eligibility.

Differences Between Nail Technician and Other Beauty Licenses

• Training Hours: Nail technicians must complete a 525-hour program (minimum 4 months) at a Board-approved school, compared to 1,000+ hours for estheticians and hairstylists.

• Apprenticeship Requirements: Instead of attending school, apprentices can complete 1,050 hours over 8 months under a licensed master technician.

• Age Requirement: Nail technicians must be 17 years old to apply, the same as hairstylists and estheticians.

• Exam Requirements: Nail technicians must pass a written and practical exam with a minimum score of 70%. Exams are administered in English only, and translators are not permitted.

All other requirements, including continuing education (5 hours every two years), reciprocity, and instructor licensing, remain the same as for other beauty professionals.

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Georgia Barber Licensing Requirements

Barbering in Georgia shares many of the same licensing, exam, and renewal requirements as hairstyling. However, key differences exist in age requirements, training hours, continuing education, and apprenticeship options.

Differences Between Barber and Hair Stylist Licensing

• Age Requirement: Barbers can apply at 16 years old, while hairstylists must be 17.

• Training Hours: Barbers must complete a 1,500-hour program (9 months minimum) at a Board-approved school, compared to 1,325 hours for hairstylists.

• Apprenticeship Requirements: Barber apprentices must complete 3,000 hours over 18 months, whereas hairstylist apprentices complete 2,650 hours in 14 months.

• Continuing Education: Barbers must complete 5 CE hours for renewal, but 3 of these hours must be in Board-approved health and safety training. Hairstylists do not have this specific requirement.

All other requirements, including exams, reciprocity, and instructor licensing, remain the same as hairstylists.

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Georgia Makeup Artist Licensing Requirements

In Georgia, makeup artists must hold a Master Cosmetology or Esthetician license to legally provide makeup services. Both licenses require formal training, passing state exams, and meeting renewal requirements.

Choosing the right path depends on the services you plan to offer—cosmetology covers hair, nails, and makeup, while esthetics focuses on skincare and cosmetic application.

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Georgia Senate Bill 354

Georgia Bill 354 is a significant piece of legislation that reshapes the state's cosmetology industry by removing licensing requirements for certain beauty services. Designed to reduce regulatory barriers, the bill has sparked debate within the cosmetology community, as it directly impacts education, training, and job opportunities in the field.

At its core, Bill 354 eliminates the licensing mandates that were once required for specific cosmetology tasks. Previously, these services required formal education and certification, but under the new law, individuals can be hired to perform them without prior training. The affected services include:

• Applying cosmetics

• Blow-dry styling

• Brushing

• Combing

• Shampooing

• Washing

In effect, Bill 354 removes thousands of hours of mandated education and training, marking a major shift in Georgia’s beauty industry regulations. While some see this as an opportunity to expand job access, others raise concerns about maintaining professional standards in cosmetology.

We have a useful blog about Bill 354 so you can further understand how this may affect you!

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