To receive a cosmetology license in Massachusetts or a license in one of the other beauty practitioner disciplines in this state you have to attend a licensed school and complete the minimum required training hours before you can take the state’s board exams. These required training hours are specified by the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Cosmetologists. After you pass the exam you can apply for the license. The Fee is $68 for all personal beauty practitioner licenses.
Minimum required training hours
- Cosmetologist license: 1000 hours
- Aesthetician license: 300 hours
- Manicurist license: 100 hours
Examinations are already stressful but a lack of information or misinformation only adds unnecessary stress. Therefore, we advise every applicant to read through the FAQ documents for information on theory and practical exams at www.pearsonvue.com and contact either the Board or Pearson VUE if you have questions.
Contact Information Massachusetts Board of Registration of Cosmetologists
Division of Professional Licensure
1000 Washington Street, Suite 710
Boston, Massachusetts 02118-6100
Phone: 617-727-9940
Fax: 617-727-1627
For all other questions:
Phone: 617-727-9940
Fax: 617-727-1627
E-mail: cosmetologyandbarberingboard@state.ma.us
Website, FAQs, Applications and Forms, Fees
Cosmetology License Renewal
Cosmetology licenses in Massachusetts are renewed every two years. No continuing education is required for renewal. The fees are $68 for the renewal of all beauty practitioner license types.
Out-of-state license / Out-of-country license
To transfer your cosmetology license or other beauty licenses to Massachusetts, you have to take the written and practical board exams. The costs are for transfer are $323 in total ($135 for the transfer application, $120 for the exam, and $68 for the license).
—
Disclaimer: We don’t guarantee the accuracy of the above information. Ultimately the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Cosmetologists determines license requirements and will provide you with all needed information. We are not affiliated with the Board in any way. The information on this page was last updated on 2/8/2018.