California requires a state-level cosmetologist license. The licensing authority is California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. The median salary is $41,230 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
California requires a cosmetologist to hold a state license. Provide hair, skin, and nail care services including cutting, coloring, styling, and chemical treatments. Licensing is administered by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | 1,000-2,100 hours cosmetology school (varies by state) |
| Experience Details | 1,000-2,100 hours cosmetology school (varies by state) |
California requires passing the California Cosmetologist Exam with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $50.
| Exam Name | California Cosmetologist Exam |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | NIC / State Board Practical and Written Exam |
| Application Fee | $50 |
Practice with real exam-style questions based on the NIC / State Board Practical and Written Exam.
Start Practice Exam — $2.99 →Getting licensed as a cosmetologist in California takes 12 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
The total cost includes an exam application fee of $50 and renewal fees of $50 every 2 years. Continuing education of 8 hours is required per renewal cycle.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $50 |
| License Renewal | $50 every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 8 hours |
Cosmetologists in California earn a median salary of $41,230, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in California |
| National average | $38,090 |
Yes — California requires a state-level cosmetologist license. Provide hair, skin, and nail care services including cutting, coloring, styling, and chemical treatments.
The required exam is the California Cosmetologist Exam. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $50.
The median annual salary for cosmetologists in California is $41,230. The national median is $38,090.
California requires 8 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.
The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 12 months including experience requirements.