Cosmetology is one of those amazing careers that you can do anywhere. Seriously, no matter where you are in the United States (or the world, to be honest), cosmetology is going to be a job with a market that never disappears. 

So, whether you’re in a densely populated city in Alabama or a sparsely populated town in Alaska, someone is always going to need a professional cosmetologist to have their back.

The catch? The rules are rarely the same for what’s required to practice cosmetology from state to state. 

Like lots of jobs that require licenses, cosmetology requirements, pre-reqs, and rules are dictated by the state you have your license in. While that’s a good thing for consistency within the state, it can get incredibly frustrating for cosmetologists who want to work in different states. 

But just because it can be complicated to practice in another state doesn’t mean it’s impossible–with a little research, some know-how, and potentially some extra classes, it’s highly likely you can get your license for just about any state you set your mind to. 

If you’re ready to learn about what goes into each state’s requirements and what you need to know about state-to-state reciprocity, keep reading! This blog is going to be your guide on the must-know details. 

7 Things to Know About Practicing Cosmetology In Another State 

Every State Has Their Own Rules 

First things first, let’s drive this point home–every single state is going to have its own rules.

If you’re looking to practice in another state where you don’t have a license, it’s not always fair to assume that because you’ve gone to beauty school, have accumulated a certain number of CEUs, and have a license in another state, you’re clear to practice. 

Odds are, you’re probably not. It’s important to go through your state’s checklist to see what you’re missing, what you’ve got, and how you can go about getting a license in a new state. 

Reciprocity Might Apply (It Also Might Not) 

It’s possible that because you already have a license in one state, another state will accept and honor that license. But it’s also entirely possible that another state will not accept your current license and make you jump through all the hoops to get one in their state.

The best way to see if your current license is reciprocal in a new state is to–you guessed it–check with your state cosmetology board. They’re the only ones who will be able to tell you what’s acceptable and what isn’t. 

Your Educational Requirements Will Vary

Most cosmetologists had to attend a certain number of hours in an accredited beauty school to receive their license–but in some states, you might need more hours than you currently have or didn’t need as many as you currently have. All that to say, the educational requirements will vary. 

For example, in Florida, you need at least 1200 school hours and are required to pass an exam. But in Delaware, you’ll need 1500 school hours, 3000 apprenticeship hours, and to have passed theory and practical exams.  

And this will continue to vary state by state, each requiring their own little blend of hours and requirements (and prerequisites) to get your license in their state. 

CEUs Matter 

Yep, some states care about continuing education credits, and others don’t. Let’s say you currently live in, practice in, and have a license in Hawaii. You need 1800 school hours and 3600 apprenticeships hours to get your license but CEUs are not required–so you never need to snag even one. 

But if you plan to move away from Hawaii to Illinois (we’re not judging you), your CEU requirements change–now, you’ll need 14 CEUs every 2 years if you’re a cosmetologist and 24 if you’re an instructor. 

This little requirement can be tricky, so make sure you’re looking into this! 

Cosmetology Liability Insurance Might Be Required

Every state is going to have a different take on whether or not liability insurance is required, but to be totally honest; this actually shouldn’t even matter. Why? Because cosmetology liability insurance is always a good idea–whether your state requires you to have it or not.

Beyond state requirements, you’ll always want to remember that whether you’re looking to run your own business or be an employee somewhere, having cosmetology liability insurance is going to be the thing that has your back and keeps your career afloat.  

You’ll Need to Be Aware of License Renewal Periods 

Sure, your license renewal period in one state (let’s say Louisiana) is on your birthday every year, but in another state, that renewal period is only every three years  (like in Minnesota). The best rule for thinking about licenses in other states? Just assume that they’re always going to have a different rule than your current license. 

Transfers Could Be Possible

Transfers are possible for your licenses, but again, you’ll need to check in with that state’s cosmetology board to figure out the process. Unfortunately, because it's up to every state’s individual requirements, there’s no one-size-fits-all process for transferring your license.