How to become a cosmetologist in Arizona
Arizona cosmetologists are licensed by the Arizona State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed cosmetologist in Arizona, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Part of the state's website could not be reached when we checked, so some details come from Arizona law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a cosmetologist in Arizona?
- At least 16 years old with at least two years of high school (or equivalent), or
- At least 18 years old
Arizona cosmetologist license requirements
| Licensed by | Arizona State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology |
|---|---|
| License name | Cosmetologist |
| Education or training | 1,500 hours at a board-licensed cosmetology school, or a U.S. Dept. of Labor- or Arizona DES-approved cosmetology apprenticeship that includes at least 250 hours of infection protection and law review instruction. (A 2023 bill, HB 2525, proposed cutting this to 1,000 hours; the current statute still says 1,500.) |
| Exam | Written and practical exams, given by the board or a national barbering/cosmetology organization the board selects; you may test before finishing your hours but must finish them before licensure. |
| License term | 2 years; renew on or before your birthday once every two years |
| Continuing education | Not stated in the renewal statute (A.R.S. 32-517); board rules could not be checked (official rules site blocked). |
| Reciprocity | Out-of-state licensees can get an Arizona license by reciprocity: apply with proof of a license from another state or country, complete the board's infection protection and law review class, and pay the reciprocity fee; Arizona has also enacted the Cosmetology Licensure Compact (multistate license) in A.R.S. 32-581 to 32-598. |
How much does it cost?
| Initial personal license application (statutory maximum, one-time) | $80 |
|---|---|
| Personal license renewal every two years (statutory maximum) | $80 |
| Personal license delinquent renewal (statutory maximum) | $100 |
| Personal reciprocity or universal license application (statutory maximum, one-time) | $100 |
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 Arizona
- Confirm you are 16+ with two years of high school (or equivalent), or 18+.
- Complete a 1,500-hour cosmetology course at a board-licensed school, or an approved apprenticeship program.
- Apply to the Arizona State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology on the board's form and pay the application fee.
- Pass the written and practical exams.
- Pay the license fee and receive your license.
- Renew every two years on or before your birthday.
How do you check a cosmetologist's license in Arizona?
- Ask for the license number and confirm it with the Arizona State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.
- 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.