This page provides information for New York license requirements including how to apply for a new license, renew an existing one, reactivate an expired license and New York license reciprocity for when you need to transfer a license to this state or out of state. If available, we provide other useful information such as cosmetology school hours requirements, how to apply for additional license for professions like manicurists, nail technicians, instructors etc. If you did not find the answer you were looking for on this page or if you have questions or issues pertaining to cosmetology, then we recommend you contact the New York Department of State Division of Licensing Services.

New York Cosmetology License Verification

If you need to verify a license for a salon or person, then you can do so by visiting the New York Board of Cosmetology license verification website. From there you can search for the person or business and see if there are any disciplinary actions on record. This will allow you to make an informed decision about the person and or business providing your service.

Requirements to Obtain a New York Cosmetology License

To apply for a cosmetology license, click here. Using the online services provides a quicker turnaround time on the processing of your application. It will allow you to view your record, track the status of your application, view exams scores and complete amendment transactions through your online account.

If you are at least 17 years old, you may apply for a Cosmetology license based on:

New York State Education and Examinations (eligible for temporary license)

You must complete a 1,000-hour approved course of study and pass both the New York State written and practical examinations to get a license to operate in this state. As proof of successful completion of schooling, you must have the Affirmation of New York State Approved Schooling section of the application completed by your school director. After your application is reviewed and accepted, you will receive information that explains the exam process in detail.

Education Outside of New York State (eligible for temporary license)

The Department of State may waive the New York State schooling requirement if you can document an equivalent level of schooling from another state or country. You must submit all three of the following documents:

  • A school certificate
  • A school transcript listing subjects and hours completed and
  • A current, original Certification of Licensure from your state board or, if not licensed, a current Certification from your state's board verifying the hours claimed

After your application is reviewed and accepted, you will also be required to pass both the New York State written and practical examinations to obtain a Cosmetology license in this state. You will receive information that explains the exam process in detail.

Experience: 5 Years Outside of New York State

Any individual having five years of legal experience in an occupation equivalent to cosmetology may apply for a New York State license by submitting satisfactory evidence of education and experience.

Within the United States experience:

  • An original certification from the licensing agency you were previously licensed with
  • Two experience statements filled out by former employers, co-workers, clients, that can claim your experience in the state for at least five years. These experience statements must include exact dates (month and year of start of service and month and year of end of service), location(City, State, shop name), and specific services that you performed
  • Copy of tax returns which indicate cosmetology as occupation

Outside of the United States experience:

Evidence may include but is not limited to:

  • Official certification from the licensing authority in your country or verification from the Consulate that a license is not required to practice this occupation in your country
  • Detailed letters from employer(s) in your country specifying exact dates of employment, location and specific services that you performed
  • Detailed letters from your client(s), or coworker(s), in your country specifying exact dates of service, location and specific services you performed
  • Copy of passport which indicates cosmetology as occupation, drivers license, workbook with cosmetology experience, or any photo identification
  • Copies of course curricula and diplomas/certificates for education completed in your country
  • Copy of tax returns which indicate cosmetology as occupation

After your application is reviewed and accepted, you may obtain a Cosmetology license in New York State without examination or further education.

Endorsement/Reciprocity

An applicant who holds a Cosmetology license in another jurisdiction may obtain a Cosmetology license in New York through endorsement or reciprocity. Refer to their website at www.dos.ny.gov for a Cosmetology endorsement or reciprocity list to determine if you qualify for licensure based on endorsement or reciprocity. An applicant must submit an original certification from the jurisdiction where s/he holds an equivalent license.

Previous New York State Licensure

An individual who fails to file an application and fee for renewal within five years of the expiration date cited on the individual's license shall be ineligible for such license until he/she passes a written exam. Proof of previous licensure may be required.

Requirements to Obtain a New York Waxing License

To apply for a waxing license, click here. Using the online services provides a quicker turnaround time on the processing of your application. It will allow you to view your record, track the status of your application, view exams scores and complete amendment transactions through your online account.

If you are at least 17 years old, you may apply for a Waxing license based on:

New York State Education and Examinations (eligible for temporary license)

You must complete a 75-hour approved course of study and pass the New York State written examination to get a license to operate in New York State. As proof of successful completion of schooling, you must have the Affirmation of New York State Approved Schooling section of the application completed by your school director.
After your application is reviewed and accepted, you will receive information that explains the exam process in detail.

Education Outside of New York State (eligible for temporary license)

The Department of State may waive the New York State schooling requirement if you can document an equivalent level of schooling from another state or country. You must submit all three of the following documents:

  • A school certificate
  • A school transcript listing subjects and hours completed and
  • A current, original Certification of Licensure from your state board or, if not licensed, a current Certification from your state's board verifying the hours claimed. After your application is reviewed and accepted, you will also be required to pass the New York State written examination to obtain a Waxing license in this state. You will receive information that explains the exam process in detail
Experience: 5 Years Outside of New York State

Any individual having five years of legal experience in an occupation equivalent to Waxing may apply for a New York State license by submitting satisfactory evidence of education and experience.

Within the United States experience
  • An original certification from the licensing agency you were previously licensed with
  • Two experience statements filled out by former employers, co-workers, clients, that can claim your experience in the state for at least five years. These experience statements must include exact dates (month and year of start of service and month and year of end of service), location (City, State, shop name), and specific services that you performed
  • Copy of tax returns which indicate Waxing as occupation
Outside of the United States experience

Evidence may include but is not limited to:

  • Official certification from the licensing authority in your country or verification from the Consulate that a license is not required to practice this occupation in your country
  • Detailed letters from employer(s) in your country specifying exact dates of employment, location and specific services that you performed
  • Detailed letters from your client(s), or coworker(s), in your country specifying exact dates of service, location and specific services you performed
  • Copy of passport which indicates Waxing as occupation, drivers license, workbook with Waxing experience, or any photo identification
  • Copies of course curricula and diplomas/certificates for education completed in your country
  • Copy of tax returns which indicate Waxing as occupation

After your application is reviewed and accepted, you may obtain a Waxing license in New York State without examination or further education.

Requirements to Obtain a New York Esthetics License

To apply for a esthetics license, click here. Using the online services provides a quicker turnaround time on the processing of your application. It will allow you to view your record, track the status of your application, view exams scores and complete amendment transactions through your online account.

If you are at least 17 years old, you may apply for an Esthetics license based on:

New York State Education and Examinations (eligible for temporary license)

You must complete a 600-hour approved course of study and pass both the New York State written and practical examinations to get a license to operate in New York state. As proof of successful completion of schooling the Affirmation of New York State Approved Schooling section of the esthetics application must be completed by your school director. After your application is reviewed and accepted, you will receive information that explains the exam process in detail.

Education Outside of New York State (eligible for temporary license)

The Department of State may waive the New York State schooling requirement if you can document an equivalent level of schooling from another state or country. You must submit all three of the following documents:

  • A school certificate
  • A school transcript listing subjects and hours completed and
  • A current, original Certification of Licensure from your state board or, if not licensed, a current Certification from your state's board verifying the hours claimed

After your application is reviewed and accepted, you will also be required to pass both the New York State written and practical examinations to obtain an Esthetics license in this state. You will receive information that explains the exam process in detail.

Experience: 5 Years Outside of New York State

Any individual having five years of legal experience in an occupation equivalent to Esthetics may apply for a New York State license by submitting satisfactory evidence of education and experience.

Within the United States experience
  • An original certification from the licensing agency you were previously licensed with
  • Two experience statements filled out by former employers, co-workers, clients, that can claim your experience in the state for at least five years. These experience statements must include exact dates (month and year of start of service and month and year of end of service), location(City, State, shop name), and specific services that you performed
  • Copy of tax returns which indicate Esthetics as occupation
Outside of the United States experience

Evidence may include but is not limited to:

  • Official certification from the licensing authority in your country or verification from the Consulate that a license is not required to practice this occupation in your country
  • Detailed letters from employer(s) in your country specifying exact dates of employment, location and specific services that you performed
  • Detailed letters from your client(s), or coworker(s), in your country specifying exact dates of service, location and specific services you performed
  • Copy of passport which indicates Esthetics as occupation, drivers license, workbook with Esthetics experience, or any photo identification
  • Copies of course curricula and diplomas/certificates for education completed in your country
  • Copy of tax returns which indicate Esthetics as occupation

After your application is reviewed and accepted, you may obtain a Esthetics license in New York State without examination or further education.

Endorsement

An applicant who holds an Esthetics license in another jurisdiction may obtain an Esthetics license in New York through endorsement without examination or further education. Refer to their website by clicking here for an Esthetics endorsement list to determine if you qualify for licensure based on endorsement. An applicant must submit an original certification from the jurisdiction where s/he holds an equivalent license.

Previous New York State Licensure

An individual who fails to file an application and fee for renewal within five years of the expiration date cited on the individual's license shall be ineligible for such license until he/she passes a written exam. Proof of previous licensure may be required.

Requirements to Obtain a New York Natural Hair Styling License

To apply for a natural hair styling license, click here. Using the online services provides a quicker turnaround time on the processing of your application. It will allow you to view your record, track the status of your application, view exams scores and complete amendment transactions through your online account.

If you are at least 17 years old, you may apply for a Natural Hair Styling license based on:

New York State Education and Examinations (eligible for temporary license)

You must complete a 300-hour approved course of study and pass both the New York State written and practical examinations to get a license to operate in New York State. As proof of successful completion of schooling, you must have the Affirmation of New York State Approved Schooling section of the application completed by your school director. After your application is reviewed and accepted, you will receive information that explains the exam process in detail.

Education Outside of New York State (eligible for temporary license)

The Department of State may waive the New York State schooling requirement if you can document an equivalent level of schooling from another state or country. You must submit all three of the following documents:

  • A school certificate
  • A school transcript listing subjects and hours completed and
  • A current, original Certification of Licensure from your state board or, if not licensed, a current Certification from your state's board verifying the hours claimed
  • After your application is reviewed and accepted, you will also be required to pass both the New York State written and practical examinations to obtain a Natural Hair Styling license in this state. You will receive information that explains the exam process in detail
Experience: 5 Years Outside of New York State

Any individual having five years of legal experience in an occupation equivalent to Natural Hair Styling may apply for a New York State license by submitting satisfactory evidence of education and experience.

Within the United States experience
  • An original certification from the licensing agency you were previously licensed with
  • Two experience statements filled out by former employers, co-workers, clients, that can claim your experience in the state for at least five years. These experience statements must include exact dates (month and year of start of service and month and year of end of service), location(City, State, shop name), and specific services that you performed
  • Copy of tax returns which indicate Natural Hair Styling as occupation
Outside of the United States experience

Evidence may include but is not limited to:

  • Official certification from the licensing authority in your country or verification from the Consulate that a license is not required to practice this occupation in your country
  • Detailed letters from employer(s) in your country specifying exact dates of employment, location and specific services that you performed
  • Detailed letters from your client(s), or coworker(s), in your country specifying exact dates of service, location and specific services you performed
  • Copy of passport which indicates Natural Hair Styling as occupation, drivers license, workbook with Natural Hair Styling experience, or any photo identification
  • Copies of course curricula and diplomas/certificates for education completed in your country
  • Copy of tax returns which indicate Natural Hair Styling as occupation

After your application is reviewed and accepted, you may obtain a Natural Hair Styling license in New York State without examination or further education.

Requirements to Obtain a New York Nail Specialty License

To apply for a nail specialty license, click here. Using the online services provides a quicker turnaround time on the processing of your application. It will allow you to view your record, track the status of your application, view exams scores and complete amendment transactions through your online account.

If you are at least 17 years old, you may apply for a Nail Specialty license based on:

New York State Education and Examinations (eligible for temporary license)

You must complete a 250-hour approved course of study and pass both the New York State written and practical examinations to get a license to operate in New York State. As proof of successful completion of schooling, you must have the Affirmation of New York State Approved Schooling section of the application completed by your school director. After your application is reviewed and accepted, you will receive information that explains the exam process in detail.

Education Outside of New York State (eligible for temporary license)

The Department of State may waive the New York State schooling requirement if you can document an equivalent level of schooling from another state or country. You must submit all three of the following documents:

  • A school certificate
  • A school transcript listing subjects and hours completed and
  • A current, original Certification of Licensure from your state board or, if not licensed, a current Certification from your state's board verifying the hours claimed

After your application is reviewed and accepted, you will also be required to pass both the New York State written and practical examinations to obtain a Nail Specialty license in this state. You will receive information that explains the exam process in detail.

Experience: 5 Years Outside of New York State

Any individual having five years of legal experience in an occupation equivalent to nail specialty may apply for a New York State license by submitting satisfactory evidence of education and experience.

Within the United States experience
  • An original certification from the licensing agency you were previously licensed with
  • Two experience statements filled out by former employers, co-workers, clients, that can claim your experience in the state for at least five years. These experience statements must include exact dates (month and year of start of service and month and year of end of service), location(City, State, shop name), and specific services that you performed
  • Copy of tax returns which indicate Nail Specialty as occupation
Outside of the United States experience

Evidence may include but is not limited to:

  • Official certification from the licensing authority in your country or verification from the Consulate that a license is not required to practice this occupation in your country
  • Detailed letters from employer(s) in your country specifying exact dates of employment, location and specific services that you performed
  • Detailed letters from your client(s), or coworker(s), in your country specifying exact dates of service, location and specific services you performed
  • Copy of passport which indicates nail specialty as occupation, drivers license, workbook with nail specialty experience, or any photo identification
  • Copies of course curricula and diplomas/certificates for education completed in your country
  • Copy of tax returns which indicate nail specialty as occupation

After your application is reviewed and accepted, you may obtain a nail specialty license in New York State without examination or further education.

NYS Licensed Nail Trainee (eligible for temporary license)

You must complete one year as a NYS Licensed Nail Trainee, complete an approved 26 Hour Nail Trainee Course of Study, pass both the New York State written and practical examinations. After your application is reviewed and accepted, you will receive an email containing information regarding the exams.

New York Cosmetology School Hours

Type Requirements
Cosmetologist License 1000 Hours
Natural Hairstylist License 300 Hours
Esthetician License 600 Hours
Nail Technician License 250 Hours
Barber License 2-year Apprenticeship
Cosmetology Instructor License Cosmetology License + Work Experience
Waxing License 75 Hours
Massage Therapist License 1000 Hours

Renewing New York License or Registration

All Appearance Enhancement (Business, Area Renter, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Nail Specialty, Natural Hair Styling and Waxing Operator) and Barber (Shop Owner, Area Renter, Apprentice and Operator) licenses must be renewed online through an online account. The instructions are listed below:

Access Information for Existing Applicants and Licensees

Applicants: Individuals who are in the process of completing the exam process will need to schedule any new exams through their online account. Prior to scheduling an exam, the applicant must create their online account and claim their pending application. Click here for instructions on how to claim an application. Written and practical exams may be completed in either order and may be scheduled at a time, date and location of your choice.

Licensees: Individuals who want to renew their license or make any type of modifications to an existing license should create an online account and claim their existing license(s). Click here for instructions on how to claim a license.

Access Information for New Appearance Enhancement or Barber Applicants Applying Online

New Applicants can apply online for an Appearance Enhancement Operator License, Barber Operator License, a Business or an Area Renter License. Once arriving at the Licensing Online System click on the left side green button, I need a NY.Gov ID. Click here to visit the New York State License Center. Still need help? Call the NYS License Center Help Desk at 518-453-8130 between the hours of 8:30am and 4:30pm Monday thru Friday, with the exception of New York State Observed Holidays.

Your license expiration date is printed on the license. You are eligible to renew three months prior to the expiration date. If you do not have an existing account, you will receive your renewal notice via mail three months before your license is due to expire. This notice will contain instructions for creating an account. Once you create an account and claim your record, you can login and renew your license under the Manage My Licenses tab. To receive renewal notices via email, you must claim your existing records and through the Contact Information Change Amendment add your email address to your license records as follows:

  • Once you have claimed your records
  • Click on Manage My Licenses
  • Click on Amendment link on your license record:
    • Select Contact Information Change Amendment. Click continue application
    • Individual or Business will show up for Contact Type to Change, click appropriate box then click continue application
    • Click on Email Address, it will bring up a box to insert your email address and a box for an explanation of why you are changing your information
    • Insert your email address and add a brief explanation in box below it such as I am adding my email address to my records. Click continue application
    • A list of records to change will appear, be sure to place a check on all records, then click continue application
    • It gives you an opportunity to upload documentation (not required), click continue application
      a review screen will appear, verify information and click continue application
    • A confirmation box will appear that states your amendment has been submitted

For additional information and instructions on renewing your Appearance Enhancement or Barber license online click here. All licensees and registrants are mailed a renewal form approximately 90 days prior to their license/registration expiration date. If it is less than 60 days from your license/registration expiration date and you have not received a renewal form, email the Division of Licensing Services and request a form. Your email must provide your full name and mailing address, the type of license/registration renewal form you are requesting, your license/registration unique identification number and expiration date. Your renewal form will be mailed to you 10 to 15 business days from the date your emailed request is received.

Please note: If your personal name, business or residence address has changed since your last application, please download the Change Notice (DOS-1473), complete the form and return with your renewal application and separate payments.

What forms of payment does the Department of State accept?

You may pay by check or money order made payable to the Department of State or by MasterCard or Visa using a credit card authorization form. Don't send cash. Application fees are nonrefundable. A $20 fee will be charged for any check returned by your bank.

What does the practice of Cosmetology cover?

The practice of Cosmetology includes providing the services of natural hair styling, esthetics, nail specialty and waxing and also includes providing services to the hair, head, face, neck or scalp of a human being, including but not limited to shaving, trimming, and cutting the hair or beard either by hand or mechanical appliances and the application of antiseptics, powders, oils, clays, lotions or applying tonics to the hair, head, or scalp, and in addition includes providing, for a fee or any consideration or exchange, whether direct or indirect, services for the application of dyes, reactive chemicals, or other preparations to alter the color or to straighten, curl, or alter the structure of the hair of a human being.

Who must apply for a Cosmetology license?

Any person practicing Cosmetology as described above is required by law to have a Cosmetology license. A Cosmetology license will not permit you to operate a business; a separate business application must be completed and a separate business license obtained.

Do I need a physical to be licensed?

Yes. You need to be examined by a physician, physician's assistant or nurse practitioner to apply for a license in Cosmetology. Your physician, physician's assistant or nurse practitioner must complete and date the Health Certification section of the application. You must submit your application within 30 days after the certification is signed and dated.

What does the practice of Esthetics cover?

The practice of Esthetics means providing services for a fee or any other consideration to enhance the appearance of the face, neck, arms, legs, or shoulders of a human being by the use of compounds or procedures including makeup, eyelashes, depilatories, tonics, lotions, waxes, or sanding and tweezing. They may be performed by manual, mechanical, chemical or electrical means and instruments, but shall not include the practice of electrology.

Who must apply for an Esthetics license?

Any person practicing Esthetics is required by law to have an Esthetics license. An Esthetics license will not permit you to operate a business; a separate business application must be completed and a separate business license obtained.

What does the practice of Nail Specialty cover?

The practice of Nail Specialty means providing services for a fee or any other consideration to cut, shape or enhance the appearance of the nails of the hands or feet. Nail Specialty also includes the application and removal of sculptured or artificial nails.

Who must apply for a Nail Specialty license?

Any person practicing Nail Specialty is required by law to have a Nail Specialty license. A Nail Specialty license will not permit you to operate a business; a separate business application must be completed and a separate business license obtained.

Who must apply for a Natural Hair Styling license?

Any person practicing Natural Hair Styling is required by law to have a Natural Hair Styling license. A Natural Hair Styling license will not permit you to operate a business; a separate business application must be completed and a separate business license obtained.

Who must apply for a Waxing license?

Any person practicing Waxing is required by law to have a Waxing license. A Waxing license will not permit you to operate a business; a separate business application must be completed and a separate business license obtained.

Who may apply for a Nail Specialty Trainee registration?

Anyone who will be working or is currently working under the supervision of a licensed Nail Specialist to provide nail services for a fee is entitled to a Nail Specialty Trainee registration, regardless of citizenship or residency status.

How do I obtain a Nail Specialty Trainee registration?

You may obtain a Nail Specialty Trainee registration by submitting a Nail Specialty Trainee application to the Department of State. On this application, you will need to identify the person or persons who will be supervising you as a licensed Nail Specialist, together with the name of the licensed Appearance Enhancement Business where you will be working. The Department of State will process your application and issue you a Nail Specialty Trainee registration, without a fee. This will entitle you to work for an initial one year period as a Nail Specialty Trainee.

Do I need to supply a Social Security Number?

No. The Department of State is required to request social security numbers, however having a social security number is not a requirement for a registration. If you do not have a social security number, please include with your application a written statement that you do not have a social security number.

Where can I obtain the application for a Nail Specialty Trainee registration?

The application for a Nail Specialty Trainee registration is available on the Department of State website.

Is there a fee to apply for a Nail Specialty Trainee registration?

There is no fee to apply for the Nail Specialty Trainee registration.