New Hampshire Cosmetology License Requirements
Updated
Licenses in New Hampshire are issued and regulated by the New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics. This page covers what it takes to get licensed, what renewal costs, how the board handles license transfers, and how to reach it.
Training Hours
1,200 hrs
Minimum Age
16 years old
Exam Provider
Prov, Inc.
Application Fee
$82
Renewal Fee
$82
Renewal Period
2 years (from date of issuance)
CE Hours Required
None
Renewal Portal
Renew Online ↗License Lookup
How to Verify a License →The New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics
Phone
(603) 271-2152Official Website
Official Site ↗Mailing Address
New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics
7 Eagle Square
Concord, NH 03301
Office Hours
Mon–Fri 8 AM–4 PM, closed New Hampshire state holidays.
Renewal Portal
Renew Online ↗Complaints
File a Complaint ↗New Hampshire regulates barbers, cosmetologists, estheticians, and manicurists through a seven-member Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics that sits inside OPLC rather than operating as its own stand-alone agency. Beyond personal licenses, the board licenses Instructors, Shops (salons, barbershops, and mobile barbershops), Schools, and it registers Tanning Facilities. Board inspectors visit every shop and school at initial licensure and again on a routine, biannual basis unless the business holds an OSHA sanitation certificate.
The board's office sits at OPLC headquarters, 7 Eagle Square in Concord, NH 03301. Phone support runs Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM, closed for New Hampshire state holidays, at (603) 271-2152 — the same line and staff that field questions for every board OPLC oversees, not only barbering and cosmetology. OPLC communicates with applicants and licensees primarily by email, so the office asks licensees to add its licensing addresses to their contacts to avoid missing renewal notices or license issuance emails.
New Hampshire sets training-hour minimums by discipline: 1,200 hours of cosmetology school (or 3,000 apprenticeship hours over at least 18 months) for a Cosmetologist license, 800 school hours (or 1,600 apprenticeship hours over at least 12 months) for a Barber license, 1,500 school hours (or 3,000 apprenticeship hours) for a Master Barber license, 600 hours for an Esthetician license, and 300 hours for a Manicurist license. Every discipline also requires passing a written and practical exam, administered through the board's third-party testing vendor, Prov, Inc., at its Concord testing center.
Personal licenses issued by this board are valid for two years from their date of issuance rather than on a shared statewide date or the licensee's birthday; apprentice licenses run for one year. New Hampshire does not publish a continuing education requirement for barbering, cosmetology, esthetics, or manicuring renewal.
How to Get a Cosmetology License in New Hampshire
Earning a New Hampshire cosmetology license requires 1,200 hours of approved training followed by NIC written and practical examinations administered by Prov, Inc. Here is the step-by-step process:
- Meet the minimum requirements. You must be at least 16 years old. New Hampshire does not require a high school diploma or GED for cosmetology school enrollment or license application.
- Enroll in an OPLC-approved cosmetology school. New Hampshire-approved schools offer the 1,200-hour cosmetology curriculum. Alternatively, complete a 3,000-hour apprenticeship (minimum 18 months) under a licensed supervisor in an OPLC-licensed shop.
- Complete 1,200 hours of training. Your school tracks and certifies hours. New Hampshire's curriculum covers hair, skin, and nail services, sanitation and safety, and state law under RSA 313-A.
- Submit your application to OPLC. Once training is complete, submit the Application for Examination to OPLC at 7 Eagle Square, Concord, NH 03301, with the $82.00 application fee. OPLC reviews your qualifications and issues exam authorization.
- Register with Prov and schedule your exams. Register at provexam.com or call Prov at (877) 228-3926. Schedule your NIC written theory exam ($88) and NIC practical skills exam ($99) separately.
- Pass both NIC examinations. The written exam is available at four NH locations (Concord ×2, Nashua, Newington) or remotely. The practical exam is in-person only at the Prov Testing Center at 2 Pillsbury Street, Suite 102, Concord, NH 03301. A passing score of 75.00 is required on both.
- Receive your license. Once OPLC confirms exam passage, your cosmetology license is issued and you may legally practice cosmetology in New Hampshire.
Training Requirements
New Hampshire OPLC-approved schools and apprenticeship programs must cover the curriculum required for the applicable NIC examination. Training hour requirements by license type are:
- Cosmetologist: 1,200 school hours or 3,000 apprenticeship hours (minimum 18 months) under a licensed supervisor
- Barber: 800 school hours or 1,600 apprenticeship hours (minimum 12 months)
- Master Barber: 1,500 school hours or 3,000 apprenticeship hours (minimum 18 months)
- Esthetician: 600 school hours
- Manicurist: 300 school hours
- Eyelash & Eyebrow Technician: Candidates must pass the NIC optional Eyelash & Eyebrow exam through Prov, Inc. (new license type effective January 1, 2026; contact OPLC for current hour requirements)
The cosmetology curriculum includes hair design services (haircutting, chemical waving, hair color), skin care, nail technology, sanitation and infection control, and New Hampshire state law (RSA 313-A and OPLC administrative rules).
Apprenticeship programs must be formally approved by OPLC. The apprentice supervisor must hold a current, active license and an active shop license. Hours must be logged and certified by the supervisor before an exam authorization will be issued.
Out-of-state training hours may be evaluated by OPLC on a case-by-case basis. Contact the board at (603) 271-2152 or OPLCLicensing6@oplc.nh.gov for hour transfer or endorsement inquiries.
Cosmetology Exam Requirements
New Hampshire uses NIC (National-Interstate Council) examinations administered exclusively by Prov, Inc. for all initial cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, and manicuring licensure. Candidates must pass both a written theory exam and a practical skills exam before a license is issued.
Written Theory Exam — $88
The computer-based NIC written exam tests knowledge of cosmetology theory, sanitation, state laws, and professional practices. New Hampshire has four in-person testing locations:
- Concord — two locations
- Nashua
- Newington
Remote online testing is also available through Prov's proctoring platform. Register and schedule at provexam.com or call Prov at (877) 228-3926. The passing score is 75.00 using NIC scaled scoring.
Practical Skills Exam — $99
The NIC practical exam is administered in-person only at the Prov Testing Center at 2 Pillsbury Street, Suite 102, Concord, NH 03301. Unlike Maine, New Hampshire does not offer remote practical testing. Cosmetology candidates are tested on:
- Core practical sections (work area setup, client preparation, safety and sanitation)
- Hair Removal — Eyebrows
- Manicure
Candidates must bring required supplies and a mannequin in sanitary condition as specified in the Prov candidate handbook at provexam.com.
Optional Eyelash & Eyebrow Exam
As of January 1, 2026, New Hampshire offers an NIC Eyelash & Eyebrow Technician examination through Prov for candidates seeking that specialty license. Contact Prov for scheduling and fee information.
How to Renew Your New Hampshire Cosmetology License
$82
Renewal Fee
2 years (issuance date)
Renewal Period
New Hampshire cosmetology licenses renew every two years from the date of issuance. The renewal fee is $82.00 for individual practitioner licenses. New Hampshire does not require any continuing education hours for renewal.
How to Renew Online
All renewals are processed through the OPLC online portal at forms.nh.gov/license/Login.aspx. Log in with your OPLC credentials, locate your license record, and complete the renewal form with payment.
Active and Inactive Status
New Hampshire allows renewal in inactive status for licensees not currently practicing. Inactive licensees may not perform cosmetology services. To reactivate, contact OPLC at (603) 271-2152. Reactivation requirements may vary depending on how long the license has been inactive.
Lapsed Licenses
A license not renewed by the expiration date lapses. Lapsed license holders may face additional reinstatement fees and requirements. Contact OPLC at OPLCLicensing6@oplc.nh.gov to determine the reinstatement process for your situation.
Does New Hampshire Take Part in the Cosmetology Licensure Compact?
Not a member stateNew Hampshire has not enacted the Cosmetology Licensure Compact. The compact is an agreement among 12 states to recognize one another's cosmetology licenses through a single multistate license, and a state has to pass it into law before its licensees can take part.
In practical terms, that means a New Hampshire license cannot be converted into a multistate license, and a multistate license issued elsewhere will not authorize you to work in New Hampshire. If you are moving into or out of New Hampshire, you will go through the normal reciprocity or endorsement route: applying directly to the receiving state's board, documenting your training hours, and meeting whatever additional requirements that state sets.
It is worth noting that even in the 12 states that have enacted the compact, multistate licenses are not being issued yet — the Commission is still building the system that will administer them. So at the moment, a New Hampshire licensee is not at a practical disadvantage compared with one in a member state.
Other Compact member states
Licenses the New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics Regulates
| License | Training Hours | Initial Fee | Renewal Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Cosmetologist |
1,200 hrs | $82 | $82 |
|
Barber |
800 hrs | $82 | $82 |
|
Master Barber |
1,500 hrs | $82 | $82 |
|
Esthetician |
600 hrs | $82 | $82 |
|
Manicurist |
300 hrs | $82 | $82 |
|
Apprentice License |
— | $55 | $55 |
|
Instructor / Shop Instructor |
— | $110 | $110 |
|
Shop |
— | $346 | $346 |
|
School |
— | $170 | $170 |
Notes
Cosmetologist: Or 3,000 apprenticeship hours over at least 18 months.
Barber: Or 1,600 apprenticeship hours over at least 12 months.
Master Barber: Or 3,000 apprenticeship hours over at least 18 months.
Apprentice License: Barber, Master Barber, Cosmetology, Manicurist, or Esthetician apprentice; valid 1 year.
Instructor / Shop Instructor: Plus $150 initial and $100 routine shop-inspection fees.
Shop: Salons, barbershops, and mobile barbershops; plus $150 initial and $100 routine inspection fees.
School: Plus $150 initial and $100 routine inspection fees.
Other Cosmetology License Types in New Hampshire
New Hampshire issues the following cosmetology-related license types under RSA 313-A. Training hour requirements shown are for the school pathway; apprenticeship hours are listed separately where applicable.
- Cosmetologist — 1,200 school hours or 3,000 apprenticeship hours (18 months min.). Full cosmetology scope: hair, skin, and nails.
- Barber — 800 school hours or 1,600 apprenticeship hours (12 months min.). Barbering services including haircutting and shaving.
- Master Barber — 1,500 school hours or 3,000 apprenticeship hours (18 months min.). Advanced barbering scope.
- Esthetician — 600 school hours. Skin care services including facials, waxing, and makeup.
- Manicurist — 300 school hours. Nail services including manicures and pedicures.
- Eyelash & Eyebrow Technician — New license type effective January 1, 2026. Must pass NIC optional Eyelash & Eyebrow exam through Prov, Inc. Contact OPLC for current hour and fee requirements.
- Instructor — Must hold a current relevant practitioner license and pass the NIC Instructor exam. Teaches in OPLC-licensed schools.
- Shop Instructor — Supervises apprentices in a licensed shop setting.
- Shop — Establishment license for any location where cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, or nail services are commercially performed.
- School — School license for OPLC-approved cosmetology and barbering training programs.
- Tanning Facility — Required for any establishment offering UV tanning equipment to customers.
File a Complaint
OPLC's Division of Enforcement investigates complaints against every licensee it oversees, including the barbers, master barbers, cosmetologists, estheticians, manicurists, instructors, shops, and schools regulated by the Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics. Complaints should describe suspected professional misconduct — such as sanitation violations, unlicensed practice, or unsafe services — while suspected criminal conduct should instead be reported to local law enforcement, since OPLC pursues licensing discipline, not criminal prosecution.
Complaints are filed online through OPLC's Enforcement Complaint Form rather than by phone or mail. A complete complaint must identify who allegedly committed the misconduct, their profession, and when, where, and how it happened, including any witnesses, and it must include the complainant's own name, date of birth, email, mailing address, and phone number — New Hampshire does not accept anonymous complaints, and OPLC may reject a complaint that doesn't identify the licensee clearly enough to investigate.
OPLC's intake team screens every complaint against the law before deciding how to proceed. If the described conduct would not amount to professional misconduct, staff recommend dismissal to the board; otherwise, the matter proceeds to a preliminary investigation that can include a written response from the licensee, a recorded interview with the complainant, and subpoenaed records. The board then reviews the findings and can dismiss the case or move it toward a public disciplinary hearing, with sanctions ranging from a reprimand to fines, suspension, or revocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many training hours are required for a New Hampshire cosmetology license? +
New Hampshire requires 1,200 school hours for a cosmetologist license, or 3,000 apprenticeship hours (minimum 18 months). Other types: Manicurist (300 school), Esthetician (600 school), Barber (800 school / 1,600 apprenticeship), Master Barber (1,500 school / 3,000 apprenticeship).
What is the minimum age to apply for a NH cosmetology license? +
New Hampshire requires applicants to be at least 16 years old. No high school diploma or GED is required for enrollment or license application.
How much does it cost to get a New Hampshire cosmetology license? +
Minimum costs: OPLC application fee ($82.00) + NIC written exam ($88) + NIC practical exam ($99) = approximately $269 total. Additional costs include school tuition, required kit/supplies, and any retesting fees.
Where are the NH cosmetology written exams held? +
The NIC written exam is available at four NH locations (two in Concord, one in Nashua, one in Newington) or remotely via Prov online proctoring. Register at provexam.com or call (877) 228-3926.
Can I take the NH cosmetology practical exam remotely? +
No. The NH practical exam is in-person only at the Prov Testing Center, 2 Pillsbury Street Suite 102, Concord NH 03301. There is no remote option for the NH practical exam.
How long is a New Hampshire cosmetology license valid? +
New Hampshire cosmetology licenses are valid for two years from the date of issuance. Biennial renewal fee is $82.00. No continuing education is required. Renew at forms.nh.gov/license/Login.aspx.
Is New Hampshire part of the Cosmetology Licensure Compact? +
No. New Hampshire has not enacted the Cosmetology Licensure Compact. 12 states have enacted it so far.
Can I get a multistate cosmetology license right now? +
Not yet. 12 states have passed the compact into law, but the Cosmetology Licensure Compact Commission has not started issuing multistate licenses. Until it does, transferring a license between states still goes through each state board's reciprocity or endorsement process.
How do I transfer a cosmetology license to New Hampshire today? +
Through the New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics's reciprocity or endorsement process, not the compact. You will typically need proof of licensure in good standing from your current state, documentation of your training hours, and the application fee set by New Hampshire. Requirements differ by state, so check the board's current instructions before applying.
How much does it cost to renew a New Hampshire cosmetology or barbering license? +
Renewal costs $82 for personal Barber, Master Barber, Cosmetology, Manicurist, and Esthetician licenses, and $55 for an Apprentice license — the same as the original application fee. New Hampshire has no published continuing education requirement for renewal.
When does my New Hampshire cosmetology or barbering license expire? +
Personal licenses run two years from their date of issuance rather than a birthday or fixed calendar date; apprentice licenses run one year. OPLC emails a renewal reminder about 60 days before expiration, and renewal can't be submitted more than 60 days early.
How do I renew my New Hampshire license online? +
Renewals are completed through OPLC's Renewal Portal at forms.nh.gov rather than by mail or phone. Log in, confirm your information, and pay the renewal fee; OPLC typically processes applications, including renewals, within 10 to 14 business days and issues the new license by email.
What license types does the New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics regulate? +
The board licenses Barbers, Master Barbers, Cosmetologists, Estheticians, and Manicurists (plus Apprentices in each discipline) and Instructors, and it licenses Shops — salons, barbershops, and mobile barbershops — and Schools, and registers Tanning Facilities.
How do I contact the New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics? +
Call OPLC at (603) 271-2152, Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM, or write to 7 Eagle Square, Concord, NH 03301. This line serves every OPLC board, not only barbering and cosmetology.
How do I file a complaint against a New Hampshire salon or licensee? +
File online through OPLC's Enforcement Complaint Form. New Hampshire does not accept anonymous complaints — you must provide your name, date of birth, and contact information along with details of the alleged misconduct. Report suspected criminal activity to local law enforcement instead.
Helpful Resources
New Hampshire Esthetician License Requirements
Training hours, exam providers, fees, and renewal periods for an New Hampshire Esthetician license.
Learn more →New Hampshire Nail Technician License Requirements
Training hours, exam providers, fees, and renewal periods for a New Hampshire Nail Technician license.
Learn more →New Hampshire Barber License Requirements
Training hours, exam providers, fees, and renewal periods for a New Hampshire Barber license.
Learn more →License Reciprocity
Already licensed elsewhere? See how endorsement and reciprocity work for New Hampshire.
Learn more →New Hampshire Cosmetology License Lookup
How to verify a New Hampshire license: what you can search by, and what each status means.
Learn more →Continuing Education
See how many CE hours the New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology and Esthetics requires before you can renew.
Learn more →License Renewal
Renewal fees, deadlines, and CE requirements for New Hampshire and every other state.
Learn more →Compare Other States
Licensing rules change at the state line. These states either border New Hampshire or line up with it on training hours or the exam you would sit — useful whether you are planning a move or weighing where to train.