How to become a cosmetologist in Delaware
Delaware cosmetologists are licensed by the Delaware Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (Division of Professional Regulation). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed cosmetologist in Delaware, 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 Delaware law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a cosmetologist in Delaware?
- Education equivalent to the 10th grade (high school transcript sent directly to Prometric)
Delaware cosmetologist license requirements
| Licensed by | Delaware Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (Division of Professional Regulation) |
|---|---|
| License name | Cosmetologist |
| Education or training | 1,500 classroom hours at a cosmetology school, or a 3,000-hour apprenticeship under a licensed cosmetologist (18–36 months) |
| Exam | Separate written (theory) and practical NIC exams; the Board's exam page routes applications through Prometric with registration via IQTtesting. |
| License term | 2 years; expires October 31 of each even-numbered year |
| Continuing education | No continuing education requirement appears in the Board's current rules (24 DE Admin. Code 5100); the statute lets the Board set one. |
| Reciprocity | License by reciprocity for holders of a current same-type license from another state, D.C. or U.S. territory who passed written and practical exams; if the other state requires fewer hours, one continuous year of licensed full-time experience in the last five years is also required. Delaware has also enacted the Cosmetology Licensure Compact (24 Del. C. §5140 et seq.). |
How much does it cost?
| Reciprocity application fee | $128 |
|---|---|
| Late renewal fee | 50% of the renewal fee |
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 Delaware
- Complete 1,500 school hours or a 3,000-hour apprenticeship
- Create an account in the Prometric/SMT candidate system and apply for the exam
- Have your high school send your transcript directly to Prometric
- After receiving Authorization to Test, register with IQTtesting
- Pass the written and practical NIC exams
- Receive your license and renew every 2 years through DELPROS
Apply on the official Delaware site
How do you check a cosmetologist's license in Delaware?
- Search the name or license number on the official Delaware 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.