How to become a cosmetologist in Alabama
Alabama cosmetologists are licensed by the Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed cosmetologist in Alabama, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a cosmetologist in Alabama?
- At least 16 years old
- Completed at least 10 grades of secondary school (or equivalent, e.g. GED)
- U.S. citizen or legally present in the U.S.
Alabama cosmetologist license requirements
| Licensed by | Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering |
|---|---|
| License name | Cosmetologist |
| Education or training | 1,500 clock hours at a licensed school, or a 3,000-hour apprenticeship under a cosmetologist licensed at least 5 years (over 3 years); school and apprentice hours cannot be combined. |
| Exam | Written exam and practical exam, scheduled through PSI after the board approves the written exam application; both must be passed within 2 years of finishing training. |
| License term | 2 years; expires the last day of the licensee's birth month in odd-numbered years |
| Continuing education | No continuing education requirement for licensees appears in the board's law and rules (compilation through Oct. 15, 2026); instructor CE is referenced separately. |
| Reciprocity | Out-of-state licensees apply by reciprocity ($100) with certification sent directly from their current state; the board decides whether the practical exam only or both exams are required. Alabama law also includes the Cosmetology Licensure Compact (multistate license for cosmetologists). |
How much does it cost?
| Written examination or reexamination | $75 |
|---|---|
| Practical examination or reexamination | $130 |
| Original license | $50 |
| Personal renewal | $100 |
| Apprentice permit | $75 |
| Reciprocity (out of state) | $100 |
| Reciprocity (out of country, includes written exam fee) | $175 |
| Late fee | $54 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a cosmetologist in Alabama
- Confirm you are at least 16 and have completed 10th grade (or equivalent).
- Complete 1,500 school hours with an Alabama-licensed school, or register an apprenticeship with the board ($75 permit).
- Have your school or sponsor submit the written exam application with your documents and the $75 fee.
- Schedule and pass the written exam with PSI.
- Schedule and pass the practical exam with PSI ($130).
- Pay the $50 original license fee with your PSI 'Congrats' letter to receive your license.
Apply on the official Alabama site
How do you check a cosmetologist's license in Alabama?
- Search the name or license number on the official Alabama cosmetologist license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.