Utah Cosmetology State Requirement for Licensure

Step-by-Step Utah Cosmetology Licensing Requirements

Utah’s cosmetology licensure process is built on a foundation of rigorous standards and well-rounded training programs, designed to help students become confident and capable professionals. With pathways that include both accredited schools and approved apprenticeship programs, the state offers options for aspiring cosmetologists ready to enter the beauty industry.

The Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing does not require continuing education for license renewal, which simplifies the process for many professionals. However, with its clearly defined qualifications, NIC exam requirements, and good moral character standards, the state assures a high level of professionalism and public safety.

Below you will find the process of obtaining a cosmetology license in Utah, including how to complete your hours of training, what to expect on the practical exam, and how to transition into the profession, whether you're just starting your journey or coming from another state.

Utah Cosmetology Licensing Pathway: Age, Education, and Training Essentials

In Utah, becoming a licensed cosmetologist means following a structured pathway overseen by the Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL). With a strong emphasis on professional standards, safety, and skill development, the process ensures that each licensed professional is prepared to serve clients across the state, from Salt Lake City’s buzzing salon scene to the wellness-focused spas in Park City.

Licensing Criteria

To legally perform cosmetology services in Utah, individuals must meet the following qualifications under state law and administrative rules:

• Submit a complete application in the form prescribed by the Utah Division.

• Successfully pass the the (NIC) National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology Theory Examination and Practical Examinations.

• Pay all applicable licensing fees.

• Complete either 1,600 training hours from an accredited school or 2,500 hours in an approved apprenticeship program.

• Demonstrate good moral character.

• There is no minimum age requirement for licensure in Utah.

Whether you’re into styling, makeup, skin, or nail care, this process assures every licensed cosmetologist is ready to meet the expectations of the profession.

Examination Requirements

To sit for the cosmetology exams, applicants must:

• Complete the required hours of training through a licensed school or approved apprenticeship.

• Pass both the theory and practical exam portions of the NIC exam.

• Pay all examination and application-related fees.

Utah confirms that all cosmetologists have hands-on experience before becoming fully licensed to perform services on clients.

Continuing Education

Utah does not require continuing education for license renewal. Licenses expire every two years, and professionals may renew their license without retaking the exam if it's done within five years of expiration.

This flexible renewal process allows many professionals in Utah to stay in practice without interruption.

Apprenticeship Programs

For those pursuing the apprenticeship path, Utah mandates:

• A minimum of 2,500 hours of training under the supervision of a licensed cosmetologist.

• One-on-one direct supervision throughout the program.

• A daily record that logs theory instruction, practical services, and hours, made available to the Division upon request.

This hands-on curriculum is ideal for students who thrive in real-world environments, from salon floors in Ogden to boutique beauty studios in St. George.

License Reciprocity

Utah offers license reciprocity for professionals coming from out of state. To qualify, applicants must:

• Request license verification from their current licensing state be sent directly to the Utah Division.

• Complete and submit the application form along with all documentation and fees.

• Show proof of graduation from a licensed cosmetology school with at least 1,600 hours of instruction, or show equivalent practice hours that meet or exceed that total.

Utah recognizes the qualifications of experienced cosmetologists from other states, making it easier to continue your career if you relocate.

Instructor Licensing

To teach cosmetology in Utah, instructor candidates must:

• Hold a current cosmetology license.

• Be of good moral character.

• Submit a complete application and pay the required fees.

• Provide documentation of one of the following:

• Completion of a 400-hour instructor training program at a licensed or recognized school.

• Completion of a 400-hour on-the-job instructor training conducted by a licensed instructor.

• A minimum of 3,000 hours of cosmetology experience.

• Fulfill the examination requirement set by Utah’s administrative rules. 

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Estheticians

Licensing Criteria

If you’re drawn to the world of skin care, spa treatments, and wellness, becoming a licensed esthetician in Utah is your first step. The Utah Division of Professional Licensing has set clear qualifications for those who want to provide professional esthetic services:

• Submit a completed application as prescribed by the division.

• Pass both the NIC Esthetics Theory and Practical Examinations.

• Complete 600 hours of training at a licensed school or an approved apprenticeship program.

• Be of good moral character.

• Pay all applicable fees.

Whether you're offering facials in Park City, or practicing waxing and skin treatments in downtown Salt Lake City, a valid license is necessary to legally perform services as an esthetician in Utah.

Examination Requirements

To take the esthetics exam in Utah, candidates must:

• Complete 600 hours of instruction or participate in an 800-hour apprenticeship program.

• Pass both a written exam and a practical exam.

• Pay all required exam and licensing fees.

These exams assure estheticians are ready to safely and skillfully serve clients with a range of skin care techniques and products.

Apprenticeship Programs

Utah allows you to become a licensed esthetician through an apprenticeship pathway, which must include:

• A minimum of 800 training hours.

• Direct one-on-one supervision from a licensed master esthetician.

• A daily record of theory instruction, hands-on services, and total hours.

• Documentation made available to the Utah Division upon request.

Apprenticeship is a great option for those who prefer real-world learning, especially in Utah’s hands-on spa and wellness environments.

License Reciprocity

Utah offers license reciprocity for estheticians currently licensed in another state. To qualify, you must:

• Request a license verification be sent from your current state’s board directly to the Utah Division.

• Submit the application, including all required fees and documentation.

• Provide proof of graduation from a recognized esthetics or cosmetology/barber school with at least 600 training hours or an approved apprenticeship.

• Show evidence of practice experience to meet or exceed Utah’s required hours of training.

This reciprocity process allows experienced estheticians from out of state to bring their skills to Utah’s growing beauty and wellness market.

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Hairstylists/Barbers

Licensing Criteria

In Utah, hairstylists fall under the broader scope of barbering and cosmetology, with licensing overseen by the Utah Division of Professional Licensing. To legally practice barbering, professionals must meet the following criteria:

• Submit an application in the form required by the division.

• Successfully pass the NIC Barber Theory and Practical Examinations.

• Complete either 1,000 hours of training through an accredited barber school or 1,250 hours through an approved apprenticeship program.

• Pay all applicable fees.

• Be of good moral character.

From old-school barber shops in Provo to modern styling lounges in Salt Lake City, barbers must be licensed to perform services such as hair cutting, shaving, and grooming.

Licensed cosmetologists in Utah may also take advantage of crossover opportunities to become licensed barbers by completing the appropriate training.

Examination Requirements

Barber candidates in Utah must:

• Fulfill the required hours of training via a school or apprenticeship program.

• Pass both the written theory and practical exam with a minimum score of 75%.

• Pay all required examination and licensing fees.

Utah’s exams confirm that barbers are skilled in both technical knowledge and hands-on techniques.

Apprenticeship Programs

Barbers may also receive licensure through a registered apprenticeship program, which must include:

• A minimum of 1,250 hours of training.

• Daily one-on-one supervision by a licensed barber.

• A training log documenting theory hours, practical instruction, services performed, and total hours of instruction.

• Records made available to the Utah Division upon request.

This hands-on path is ideal for those who prefer earning and learning simultaneously, especially in Utah’s community-focused barber shops.

License Reciprocity

Utah offers license reciprocity to experienced barbers licensed in other states. To qualify, applicants must:

• Request license verification from their current state be sent directly to the Utah Division.

• Submit the application form along with all supporting documentation and fees.

• Show proof of graduation from a recognized barber school with a curriculum of at least 1,000 hours, or show equivalent practice experience that adds up to the required training hours.

This path allows experienced barbers to bring their skills and professionalism to Utah’s thriving personal care industry.

Instructor Licensing

To become a licensed barber instructor in Utah, individuals must:

• Hold a valid barber license.

• Be of good moral character.

• Submit an application and pay the applicable fees.

• Provide documentation of one of the following:

• Completion of a 250-hour instructor training program at a licensed or recognized school.

• Completion of 250 hours of on-the-job instructor training with a licensed instructor.

• At least 2,000 hours of barbering experience.

• Meet the instructor examination requirements set by Utah regulations.

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Nail Technicians/Manicurists

Licensing Criteria

To legally provide nail care services in Utah, individuals must get a nail technician license as outlined by the Utah Division of Professional Licensing. The requirements include:

• Submitting an application in the form required by the division.

• Completing 300 hours of training through an accredited school or 375 hours in an approved apprenticeship program.

• Passing both the NIC Nail Technology Theory and Practical Examinations.

• Demonstrating good moral character.

• Paying all required licensure fees.

Whether you’re crafting detailed nail art in Salt Lake City or performing manicures and pedicures at a day spa in Ogden, these qualifications confirm you're prepared to provide safe and professional services.

Examination Requirements

To be eligible for Utah’s nail technician exams, candidates must:

• Complete the required hours of training at a licensed school or via apprenticeship.

• Pass both the written and practical exam.

• Submit all exam fees and required documentation.

These exams test both your technical skills and theory knowledge to confirm you’re ready to practice in a real-world setting.

Apprenticeship Programs

Utah supports an apprenticeship pathway for nail technology, which must include:

• A minimum of 375 hours of training.

• Direct one-on-one supervision by a licensed nail technician.

• A daily record of theory hours, hands-on services, and client work, available for review by the Utah Division upon request.

This alternative path allows students to build their career while working in active salon environments across Utah.

License Reciprocity

Utah offers license reciprocity to nail technicians who hold an active license in another state. To apply:

• Request license verification from the current state to be sent directly to the Utah Division.

• Submit a completed application along with all necessary fees and documentation.

• Provide evidence of graduating from a recognized nail technology program with at least 300 hours of instruction or equivalent apprenticeship training.

• If needed, show proof of additional practice hours to meet Utah’s total training hour requirement.

This process makes it easier for professionals relocating to Utah to continue practicing their craft without interruption.

Instructor Licensing

To instruct in nail technology in Utah, candidates must:

• Hold a current nail technician license.

• Be of good moral character.

• Submit the instructor application and pay required fees.

• Provide documentation showing completion of:

• A 75-hour instructor training program from a licensed or recognized school, or

• A 75-hour on-the-job instructor training program conducted by a licensed instructor.

• Have at least 600 hours of experience practicing nail technology.

• Meet the instructor examination requirement established by state rules.

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Makeup Artists

In Utah, makeup artists are not required to hold a specific license to work professionally in makeup applications. Those who offer additional services such as facials, waxing, or skin care treatments must receive a cosmetology or esthetician license, depending on the nature of the services provided.

If your work involves activities covered under the scope of cosmetology or esthetics, such as cleansing the skin, makeup instruction, or performing services that go beyond simple application, you must meet the appropriate licensing criteria through the Utah Division of Professional Licensing.

For the most accurate and up-to-date guidance, it's recommended to contact the Utah Division directly or refer to official state rules and regulations for your specific practice area.

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