16/03/2024
In this article, Gla Hair will provide 5 detailed steps on how to get a hairstylist license and some noted information to easily achieve the best result.
Becoming a licensed hairstylist is a rewarding journey that requires dedication, education, and practical experience. In this comprehensive guide, Gla Hair will explore the process of how to get a hairstylist license in five detailed steps.
Contents
Overview of the hair stylist license
This part will provide all the information about hairstylist licenses and explain why do hair stylists need a license.
What is a hairstylist license?
A hairstylist license serves as a crucial credential for professionals in the beauty industry, granting them the legal authority to provide hairstyling services to clients. It is a formal certification granted by the State Board of Cosmetology, allowing individuals to practice hairstyling professionally. It indicates that the holder has completed the necessary education and training to perform a wide range of hair care services safely and effectively.
The importance of obtaining a hairstylist license
The answer to the question “Do hairstylist need a license?” is definitely yes. Before learning how to get a hairstylist license, you should know that it is a legal necessity in every state for anyone wishing to work as a hairstylist. It exhibits a dedication to professionalism and conformity to industry norms.
Moreover, a hairstylist license enhances credibility and trustworthiness in the eyes of clients. Customers are more likely to seek services from licensed professionals who have undergone formal training and passed rigorous examinations. By obtaining licenses, hairstylists can enhance their professional reputation, attract more clients, and contribute to the overall development of the beauty industry.
>> See more: Comprehensive Guide On How To Become A Hair Stylist
Basic requirements to get a hairstylist license
Before knowing how to get a hairstylist license, individuals must fulfill specific requirements set forth by the state board of cosmetology.
- Education requirement: The primary educational requirement for obtaining a hairstylist license is the completion of a cosmetology program from an accredited institution. Additionally, be aware of the laws because some states need a GED or high school graduation before enrollment in classes and obtaining a license.
- Age requirement: In addition to educational requirements, individuals seeking licensure as hairstylists must meet the minimum age requirement established by the State Board of Cosmetology. The minimum age varies by area but typically ranges between 16 and 18 years old.
Overall, you can start achieving your hairstylist license if you complete your cosmetology school attentively and meet these basic requirements.
Detailed steps on how to get a hairstylist license
It needs some careful planning to become a licensed hairstylist. These are the five steps that you ought to take.
Research and complete a cosmetology program
The first step in obtaining a hairstylist license is to research and select a reputable cosmetology program from an accredited institution. Look for accreditations by agencies like the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences (NACCAS).
Once enrolled, students must complete the required coursework and training hours, typically covering haircutting, coloring, styling, chemical treatments, and salon management. While learning how to get a hairstylist license, you should know that program lengths differ, but a complete cosmetology program typically takes between 1,400 and 1,600 hours, with a completion time of 12 to 18 months.
Gain hands-on experience and practical skills
During their cosmetology program, students have the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience and practical skills by working with clients under the supervision of licensed instructors. You will do daily tasks like washing and conditioning during these training hours, and watch the stylist’s activities and interactions with their clients.
While learning how to get a hairstylist license, a minimum of 2000 work hours must be completed under your mentor’s guidance and supervision. Typically, it will take you around a year to complete if you work 40 hours a week at a full-time job (8 hours per day, five days per week).
Preparation before doing the exam
Before taking the licensure exam, hairstylists should dedicate time to thorough preparation. This may involve reviewing study materials provided by the cosmetology program, practicing exam techniques, and familiarizing themselves with the content and format of the exam:
- A written and practical exam must be passed to obtain a license as a hairstylist. The written exam measures your proficiency in areas such as fundamentals, practices, hair upkeep and styling, and infection prevention.
- You can prepare for the written examination, which is usually a multiple-choice format, by taking sample exams online. Similar to licensure, assessments differ from state to state, and you might have to take extra exams to gauge your familiarity with the requirements of the various states.
- To demonstrate that you can apply your knowledge to practical scenarios, you can be required to cut and style hair, offer tips and guidance, or build a sample workspace.
Additionally, candidates should ensure that they meet all requirements and have completed any necessary paperwork or documentation required for the exam.
Pass the exam
You may now ask to challenge your Q of A (Qualifications Assessment Examination) after presenting documentation of your hair school program, which shows that you completed 1500 hours of coursework and 2000 hours of on-the-job training (for a total of 3500 hours). A score of at least 70% is required to pass this test. You can take the test three times for $100 each time.
Obtain license
Upon successful completion of the licensure exam, the last step of how to get a hairstylist license is to apply for their hairstylist license through the State Board of Cosmetology. This process involves submitting a licensure application, along with any required documentation and fees, and awaiting approval from the board. Once approved, candidates will receive their hairstylist license, officially granting them the legal authority to practice hairstyling professionally in their state.
FAQs
Here are some common questions while learning how to get a hairstylist license:
- How long does it take to receive a hairstylist license after passing the exam? The period for receiving a hairstylist license after passing the exam varies by state and the processing time of the State Board of Cosmetology. In some cases, candidates may receive their license within a few weeks of passing the exam, while in others, it may take several weeks or months for the board to review and approve licensure applications.
- Can you be a hairstylist without a license? It is illegal to practice hairstyling professionally without a valid hairstylist license issued by the State Board of Cosmetology. Licensing requirements are in place to ensure that hairstylists have received proper education and training in hairstyling techniques, sanitation practices, and state regulations governing the beauty industry. Operating without a license not only violates state laws and regulations but also poses risks to clients’ safety and well-being.
- Are there any additional requirements for maintaining licensure as a hairstylist? In addition to passing the licensure exam and obtaining a hairstylist license, licensed hair stylists may be required to fulfill continuing education requirements to maintain their licensure. These requirements typically involve completing a specified number of continuing education hours or courses periodically to stay updated on industry trends, techniques, and regulations.
Obtaining a hairstylist license is a significant achievement that gives numerous potential opportunities in the beauty industry. By following these 5 detailed steps on how to get a hairstylist license above, you can easily achieve the best result and become successful. Gla Hair hopes the above knowledge will be useful to you.
Emma is an experienced and knowledgeable hair expert with over 6 years of dedicated work and research in the hair industry. Author Emma is presently collaborating with Gla Hair in an aim to provide valuable expertise and disseminate the latest updated trends to hair businesses worldwide.
