Illinois Cosmetology State Requirements

Step-by-Step Illinois Cosmetology Licensing Requirements

With its vibrant mix of cultural influences and cutting-edge beauty trends, Illinois offers a thriving environment for aspiring beauty professionals. From the bustling streets of Chicago to the charming suburbs of Naperville and Springfield, the state's beauty industry is as diverse as its people. Whether you're dreaming of opening your own salon in the Windy City or providing personalized services in a cozy boutique, Illinois has a place for you.

To uphold its high standards, Illinois requires 1,500 hours of training at a licensed cosmetology school or 3,000 hours of apprenticeship under a licensed cosmetologist. This training assures that beauty professionals are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to excel—whether they're creating show-stopping looks for a downtown event or improving natural beauty in local communities.

Renewing your license is simple, but Illinois mandates 14 hours of continuing education to keep professionals up to date with the latest industry trends and best practices. The state also provides pathways for those with out-of-state licenses through reciprocity agreements, helping skilled professionals transition smoothly into Illinois' beauty market.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about becoming a licensed cosmetologist in Illinois. We're here to support you as you embark on your exciting journey in one of the most dynamic, beautiful landscapes in the country. Let’s get started on turning your passion into a successful career!

Illinois Cosmetology Licensing Pathway: Age, Education, and Training

In Illinois, getting a cosmetology license is a structured process to confirm all professionals meet the high standards set by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Whether you're aspiring to work in a trendy Chicago salon or a boutique studio in the suburbs, this guide will help you through the licensing process with ease.

Licensing Criteria

To legally practice cosmetology in Illinois, you must meet the following requirements:

• Applicants must be at least 16 years old.
• Completion of high school or an equivalent (such as a GED).
• Applicants must submit a completed application with a nonrefundable fee payable to IDFPR. As well as a Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) check and all necessary supporting documents.

Continuing Education

To maintain an active license in Illinois, cosmetologists must complete 14 hours of continuing education (CE) every renewal period. This makes sure that professionals stay updated with industry trends and techniques. Licenses must be renewed every two years. Renewal applications must be submitted on time to avoid additional fees or penalties.

Apprenticeship Programs

If you're interested in an apprenticeship instead of a traditional cosmetology school, Illinois offers an alternative pathway through supervised training programs. To qualify for an apprenticeship, you must:

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Have completed high school or received a GED.
• Apply for an apprentice permit through IDFPR.
• Complete 3,000 hours of hands-on training under the guidance of a licensed cosmetologist in a registered salon.

Apprenticeships must follow a structured curriculum approved by IDFPR to ensure comprehensive skill development.

License Reciprocity

Illinois offers license reciprocity to individuals from other states under the following conditions:

• The out-of-state license must be active and in good standing, with no restrictions or disciplinary actions.
• Applicants must provide an official certification of licensure from the issuing state.
• If the home state does not have a reciprocity agreement with Illinois, applicants may need to meet additional training or examination requirements.

Illinois does not currently offer reciprocity agreements with states such as Connecticut, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, New Jersey, New Mexico, Rhode Island, and Utah. However, professionals from these states can still get an Illinois license by fulfilling the state's requirements and passing the licensing exam.

Instructor Licensing

To become a licensed cosmetology instructor in Illinois, candidates must:

• Hold a valid cosmetology license.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Complete 1,000 hours of specialized training in an approved cosmetology teacher training program or complete 500 hours of training with at least two years of licensed work experience.
• Pass the written examination.
• Pay all required fees.

If you are interested in training apprentices, there are a few extra qualifications to keep in mind. You should be at least 18 years old and have at least two years of experience as a licensed cosmetologist in Illinois.

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Hairstylists/Barbers Licensing in Illinois

In Illinois, hairstylists and barbers are licensed separately, each with unique training and educational requirements. To become a licensed hairstylist or barber, individuals must meet specific qualifications set by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Let's explore what those qualifications entail.

Licensing Criteria

To become a licensed hairstylist or barber in Illinois, you must:

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Have completed the 8th grade for barbers, the 10th grade for cosmetologists, or an equivalent level of education.
• Complete the required training hours:
  • Barbers: 1,500 hours of training in an approved barbering school.
  • Cosmetologists: 1,500 hours of training at an approved cosmetology school or 3,000 hours of apprenticeship under a licensed cosmetologist.
• Pass the state examinations administered by the approved testing agency.
• Submit a complete application with all required documents, including a Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) check.
• Pay the required licensing fees.

Crossover Licensing

If you are a licensed cosmetologist in Illinois and want to become a barber, additional requirements apply. You may need to complete extra barbering coursework and pass the barber licensing examination. Similarly, licensed barbers who want to become cosmetologists must meet the required cosmetology training hours and pass the state cosmetology exam.

Examination Requirements

Barbering examination candidates in Illinois must:

• Complete 1,500 hours of training in a licensed barbering school.
• Pass both the written and practical examinations administered by the state’s approved testing agency.
• Achieve a passing score set by the Illinois Barber, Cosmetology, Esthetics, and Nail Technology Board.
• Submit a complete application with all necessary documents, including a Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) check.
• Pay all required licensing fees after passing the examination.

If you need to appeal an examination score, follow the procedures outlined by the Illinois Board of Barber Examiners to guarantee your appeal is processed correctly and fairly.

Continuing Education

Illinois does not require continuing education for barbers. However, barber licenses must be renewed every two years, with expiration set for July 31st of odd-numbered years. It’s important to renew on time to avoid penalties and maintain your ability to practice legally.

Apprenticeship

Individuals pursuing a barbering apprenticeship in Illinois must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Have completed the 8th grade or an equivalent level of education.
• Obtain an apprentice permit from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) before beginning the program.
• Complete 3,000 hours of hands-on training under a licensed barber in a registered barber shop.
• Work under the supervision of a licensed barber instructor, ensuring compliance with Illinois barbering regulations and standards.

Illinois takes a hands-on approach to barbering apprenticeships, allowing individuals to gain real-world experience while learning fundamental skills. Illinois does not require pre-apprenticeship classroom training, making the apprenticeship pathway an accessible and practical option for aspiring barbers.

License Reciprocity

Out-of-state barbers may apply for an Illinois license through reciprocity if they meet the following criteria:

• Their current barber license must be active, unrestricted, and in good standing.
• They must have held their license for at least two years in a state that has a reciprocity agreement with Illinois.

Illinois does not currently offer reciprocity agreements with the following states: Alaska, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, New Jersey, New Mexico, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

If you are applying from a state that does not have a reciprocity agreement, you will need to meet Illinois' licensing and other requirements, which may include completing additional training hours and passing the state's barber licensing exams.

Instructor Licensing

To become a licensed barber instructor in Illinois, candidates must:

• Hold a valid barber license.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Complete 1,000 hours of instructor training at a licensed barber school or gain two years of experience as a licensed barber in a registered shop and complete 500 hours of instructor training.
• Pass the written examination.
• Pay all required fees.

Barber instructors have a wonderful opportunity to shape the future of the profession by following Illinois’ high standards for education salon safety and training. Their dedication helps the next generation of barbers is well-prepared and skilled.

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Estheticians

Licensing Criteria

• You should be at least 16 years old.
• Make sure you have completed high school or an equivalent level of education.
• Graduate from a Board-approved program that provides the necessary training hours.
• Successfully pass the written examination administered by a state-approved testing agency.
• Finally, submit your application with all required documents. This includes a Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) check and payment of the associated fees.

Examination Requirements

Candidates must:

• Complete 750 hours of classroom instruction at a Board-approved esthetics school.
• Pass a written exam administered by the state's approved testing agency.
• Pay the required licensing fees upon passing the examination.

Unlike some states, Illinois does not require a practical exam for estheticians.

Continuing Education

Estheticians in Illinois are required to complete 10 hours of continuing education (CE) for license renewal. Licenses must be renewed biennially, with expiration on September 30th of odd-numbered years.

Apprenticeship Programs

There is no apprenticeship program for estheticians students in Illinois. All education must be completed through a Board-approved school.

License Reciprocity

Illinois allows reciprocity for eligible out-of-state estheticians. Applicants must:

• Hold an active, unrestricted license in good standing.
• Have held the license for at least two years in a state with a reciprocity agreement with Illinois.

Illinois does not offer reciprocity with certain states, including Connecticut, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, New Jersey, New Mexico, Rhode Island, or Utah. Applicants from non-reciprocity states must meet Illinois’ licensing requirements and pass the written examination.

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Nail Technicians/Manicurists

Licensing Criteria

To offer nail care and nail services, in Illinois, you will need to get a license. Here’s how you do that:

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Complete high school or an equivalent level of education.
• Graduate from a Board-approved training program and fulfill the required 350 instruction hours.
• Pass the written licensing examination administered by a state-approved testing agency.
• Submit a complete application with all required documentation and fees.

Examination Requirements

To sit for the licensing exam, applicants must:

• Complete 350 hours of formal training as a student in a registered school of cosmetology or nail technology.
• Pass a written exam based on Board standards administered by the state's approved testing agency.
• Pay the required fees after passing.

Continuing Education

Illinois requires nail technicians to complete 10 hours of continuing education (CE) for license renewal. Licenses expire every two years, with expiration on October 31st of odd-numbered years.

Apprenticeship Programs

There is no apprenticeship program for nail technicians in Illinois. All education and training must be completed through a Board-approved school.

License Reciprocity

Illinois offers reciprocity for eligible out-of-state nail technicians who:

• Hold an active, valid license in good standing without restrictions or disciplinary actions.
• Have maintained the license for at least two years in a state with a reciprocity agreement with Illinois.

Applicants from non-reciprocity states must meet Illinois’ licensing requirements and pass the written examination.

Instructor Licensing

To instruct in nail care, individuals must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Hold a valid nail technology license.
• Complete 500 hours of specialized teacher training.
• Pass the written examination.
• Submit all required documents and fees.

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Makeup Artists

In Illinois, makeup artists are typically licensed under either esthetics or cosmetology, depending on the range of services they provide. If you plan to offer skincare or makeup services, it's important to comply with the licensing requirements specific to your field. This assures you meet industry standards and provide the highest level of care for your clients.

For more detailed information on licensing requirements and regulations, contact the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).

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FAQs for Illinois Cosmetology Licensing Requirements

How do I become a licensed cosmetologist in Illinois?

To become a licensed cosmetologist in Illinois, you must complete 1,500 hours of barber school training or 3,000 hours of apprenticeship under direct supervision of a licensed professional. After completing your training, you need to pass the state licensing exam and submit your application to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).

What are the educational requirements to enroll in cosmetology or barber school training?

You must meet the compulsory school attendance requirements in Illinois, meaning you should have completed high school or received an equivalent, such as a GED, before enrolling in a licensed cosmetology or barber school.

What services can I offer as a licensed cosmetologist in Illinois?

As a licensed cosmetologist, you can:

• Style hair, including cutting, curling, and hair coloring.
• Treat scalp conditions and recommend hair care treatments.
• Perform hair removal services, such as waxing and threading.
• Provide basic skincare services within your licensed scope.

What is the difference between a licensed esthetician and a licensed nail technician?

A licensed esthetician focuses on skincare services, such as facials, hair removal, and treatments that improve the skin’s health and appearance. A licensed nail technician, on the other hand, specializes in nail care services such as manicures, pedicures, nail extensions, and nail art. Both professionals must complete their respective training programs and pass licensing exams.

Can I style hair without a cosmetology license?

You can style hair, such as braiding, without a cosmetology license if it does not involve the use of chemicals or cutting. However, Illinois laws require a license for services involving chemical treatments, cutting, and coloring.

What training is required to become a licensed nail technician in Illinois?

To become a licensed nail technician, you must complete 350 hours of training at an approved nail technology school and pass the state licensing exam. Training covers nail care techniques, sanitation procedures, and Illinois laws related to nail services.

Do I need a license to perform hair braiding in Illinois?

Yes, if you plan to offer professional hair braiding services, you must obtain a specialized hair braiding license or a full cosmetology license. The state requires completing training that focuses on natural hair care and protective styling under licensed instructors.

Can I perform skincare treatments without a cosmetology license?

No, you must be a licensed esthetician to offer skincare treatments like facials, exfoliation, and specialized skin therapies. Licensed estheticians are trained to understand skin health and safety according to Illinois laws.

How often do I need to renew my cosmetology license in Illinois?

Cosmetology licenses must be renewed every two years. Continuing education requirements include 14 hours for cosmetologists, 10 hours for estheticians, and 10 hours for nail technicians to stay updated with industry trends and Illinois laws.

Is direct supervision required during apprenticeship training?

Yes, apprentices must complete 3,000 hours of training under the direct supervision of a licensed professional in a registered salon to qualify for licensure.