How to become a cosmetologist in Illinois
Illinois cosmetologists are licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), Division of Professional Regulation. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed cosmetologist in Illinois, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a cosmetologist in Illinois?
- At least 16 years old
- High school diploma or equivalent, or beyond the age of compulsory school attendance
- Graduate of a licensed cosmetology school
Illinois cosmetologist license requirements
| Licensed by | Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), Division of Professional Regulation |
|---|---|
| License name | Licensed Cosmetologist |
| Education or training | 1,500 clock hours at an IDFPR-licensed cosmetology school, over at least 8 months; licensed barbers may complete a 500-hour supplemental cosmetology program. P.A. 104-478 adds a 3,000-hour apprenticeship option effective January 1, 2027. |
| Exam | Cosmetology licensing exam administered by IDFPR's designated testing service, Continental Testing Services; offered in English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese from October 1, 2026. |
| License term | 2 years; all cosmetologist licenses expire September 30 of each odd-numbered year. |
| Continuing education | 14 hours per 2-year renewal (including 1 hour of sexual harassment prevention), not required for the first renewal; a one-time abnormal skin growth course is also required at the first renewal on or after January 1, 2026. |
| Reciprocity | Illinois has no reciprocity; a cosmetologist currently licensed in another state may apply by endorsement with official license certification if that license is the same or substantially similar to Illinois' ($45 endorsement fee), or by acceptance of examination if an out-of-state exam was passed within 12 months. |
How much does it cost?
| License application fee | $30 |
|---|---|
| Examination fee (Continental Testing; from Oct. 1, 2026) | $200 |
| Endorsement (out-of-state licensee) fee | $45 |
| Renewal fee | $25 per year |
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 Illinois
- Complete 1,500 hours at an IDFPR-licensed cosmetology school
- Complete the approved abnormal skin growth (melanoma) course
- Apply in IDFPR's CORE system with your school transcript and the $30 fee
- Once approved, register and pay for the Continental Testing exam
- Pass the cosmetology exam and receive your license
- Renew by September 30 of each odd-numbered year with 14 CE hours
Apply on the official Illinois site
How do you check a cosmetologist's license in Illinois?
- Search the name or license number on the official Illinois 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.