Compare Popular Online Trades Programs
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Step 1: Education Requirements
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Step 2: Internship or Apprentice
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Step 3: Licensing & Certifications
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Step 4: Continuing Education and License Maintenance
Step 1: Education Requirements
Becoming a hairstylist requires minimal education—only a high school diploma or GED. Training, typically through a cosmetology school or vocational program, usually takes less than a year to complete.
Some community colleges and vocational schools offer an associate degree in applied arts, which can provide credits toward a bachelor’s degree and useful courses like accounting, marketing, and communication. While these skills help stylists excel in business, most states only require completion of a cosmetology, esthetics, or nail technology program for licensure.
Students should check their state’s cosmetology board to ensure their education meets licensure requirements. Most schools prominently display credentials, and state-supported colleges or vocational schools typically meet licensing standards.
Step 2: Internship or Apprentice
An internship or apprentice program is invaluable in many trades. While that terminology may not be found in the cosmetology field, aspiring stylists often have the opportunity to practice their trade prior to entering the working world. In fact, many schools of cosmetology offer reduced-rate styling and haircuts to the general public so that students can practice. Prior to that, students work on wigs to get a feel for various styles, hair types, etc.
Depending on the salon, they might take a young stylist under their wing and supervise them closely while they perfect their craft. Those who desire to work in highly specialized arenas, such as performing arts, might seek out a master who they feel is particularly skilled and ask to work with them.
Step 3: Licensing & Certifications
Each state has its own licensing board for hairdressers, stylists, and cosmetologists, each with unique criteria for licensure. While most states require a diploma from a licensed school, fees, and sometimes a background check, some states may still not regulate the industry, allowing non-licensed practitioners to cut hair.
Hair stylists rarely, if ever, need to complete continuing education courses to maintain their licenses. State boards will require that professionals renew their credentials periodically with a simple set of paperwork and a small fee. However, those who have been found acting unethically or illegally may find that their license is suspended or revoked. Stylists should always consult their state regulatory agency for updated criteria.
Step 4: Continuing Education and License Maintenance
Most stylists aim to grow and develop as cosmetology professionals, often seeking additional training beyond their initial education and licensure. Local stylists trained and licensed to teach may offer instruction in new techniques. For example, a stylist might learn skills like hair extensions, coloring, or straightening from a qualified practitioner to expand their services and enhance their practice.
Stylists also need to maintain their practice by renewing their license periodically. The requirements for this are few for cosmetologists, stylists, and manicurists. States often require little more than a small fee and paperwork, perhaps even a renewed background check, depending on the state.