How to become a cosmetologist in Iowa
Iowa cosmetologists are licensed by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL), Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Arts and Sciences. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed cosmetologist in Iowa, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a cosmetologist in Iowa?
- High school graduate or equivalent
- Graduate of a licensed school of barbering and cosmetology arts and sciences (or approved alternative)
Iowa cosmetologist license requirements
| Licensed by | Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL), Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Arts and Sciences |
|---|---|
| License name | Barbering and Cosmetology license (Iowa issues one combined license for cosmetologists and barbers) |
| Education or training | 1,550 hours in a board-approved or nationally accredited barbering and cosmetology program, or completion of an Iowa Office of Apprenticeship registered apprenticeship. Since 2025 (2025 Iowa Acts ch. 140), 2,000 hours of supervised practice in a registered establishment training program also qualifies you to take the exam. Barbering and cosmetology were merged into one license on July 1, 2024. |
| Exam | NIC (or national) theory exam for barbering and cosmetology with a score of 75% or higher; testing is handled by the board's exam vendor (Prov, per DIAL's candidate bulletin link). |
| License term | 2 years; the renewal period runs April 1 to March 31 two years later (licenses issued within six months of renewal skip to the next cycle). |
| Continuing education | 6 hours per 2-year renewal (at least 4 in the license discipline and 2 in Iowa laws, rules and infection control); 10 hours with two active licenses; exempt for the first renewal. |
| Reciprocity | Out-of-state licensees apply by endorsement with a license verification from their most recent state; those who don't qualify may use Iowa's licensure by verification or work-experience rules (481 IAC 501). |
How much does it cost?
| License application fee (nonrefundable) | $60 |
|---|---|
| Biennial renewal fee | $60 |
| Late fee (renewal during 30-day grace period) | $60 |
| Reactivation fee | $120 |
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 Iowa
- Complete 1,550 hours in an Iowa-licensed barbering and cosmetology program (or a registered apprenticeship)
- Pass the national (NIC) theory exam with 75% or higher
- Apply online in the DIAL professional licensure portal and pay the $60 fee
- Have your school send your diploma or official transcript to the board
- Renew every two years by March 31 with 6 CE hours
Apply on the official Iowa site
How do you check a cosmetologist's license in Iowa?
- Ask for the license number and confirm it with the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL), Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Arts and Sciences.
- 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.