How to become a cosmetologist in Colorado
Colorado cosmetologists are licensed by the Colorado Office of Barber and Cosmetology Licensure (Department of Regulatory Agencies, Division of Professions and Occupations). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed cosmetologist in Colorado, 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 Colorado law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a cosmetologist in Colorado?
- At least 16 years old
- Proof of graduation from an approved school or completion of an approved apprenticeship program
Colorado cosmetologist license requirements
| Licensed by | Colorado Office of Barber and Cosmetology Licensure (Department of Regulatory Agencies, Division of Professions and Occupations) |
|---|---|
| License name | Cosmetologist |
| Education or training | 50 credit hours or 1,500 contact hours at a school approved by the Division of Private Occupational Schools or Colorado Community College System, or through an approved apprenticeship. Rules are being revised to implement HB26-1181 (continuation of the Barber and Cosmetologist Act); permanent rulemaking hearing held November 3, 2026. |
| Exam | Written and practical exams administered by PSI; apply to PSI with school completion records. |
| License term | Official page states: "All Cosmetologist licenses expire on April 30 of every year and are dependent upon the issuance date." |
| Continuing education | No continuing education is required to renew under the current rules (4 CCR 731-1); 16 or 24 CE hours is one option for reinstating a license expired more than 2 or 5 years. |
| Reciprocity | Licensure by endorsement is available to holders of an active license in good standing from another state or territory who attest to approved schooling, substantially equivalent training hours and a passed written exam, plus a passed practical exam or 1,000 hours of work experience (or at least one year of licensure with a similar scope); applicants who fall short may have to take Colorado exams. |
How much does it cost?
| PSI exam application fee | $32 |
|---|
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 Colorado
- Complete the required training at an approved school or apprenticeship
- Get your record of completion or transcript from the school
- Apply to PSI for the exam online and pay the $32 application fee
- Once approved, schedule and pass the written and practical exams with PSI
- Receive your Colorado license
- Renew through DPO Online Services before the expiration date
Apply on the official Colorado site
How do you check a cosmetologist's license in Colorado?
- Search the name or license number on the official Colorado 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.