How to become a cosmetologist in Mississippi
Mississippi cosmetologists are licensed by the Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed cosmetologist in Mississippi, 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 Mississippi law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a cosmetologist in Mississippi?
- At least 16 years old
- Completed the tenth grade, or successfully enrolled in a community college, state institution of higher learning or public or private college or university (SB 2566, effective April 1, 2026; previously a high school education or equivalent)
- Social Security number on the application
Mississippi cosmetologist license requirements
| Licensed by | Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering |
|---|---|
| License name | Cosmetologist |
| Education or training | At least 1,500 hours over at least 9 months in a licensed school of cosmetology, or at least 3,000 hours in a board-certified apprenticeship. Under SB 2566 (effective April 1, 2026) apprentices may be mentored by a licensed cosmetology instructor or a cosmetologist with at least 15 years of experience. |
| Exam | Board examination given by administrators under contract with the board; testing requirements must be clear, objective and uniformly applied. |
| License term | 2 years (renewed biennially); no renewal fee for licensees 70 or older |
| Continuing education | For any renewal after April 1, 2026 and for the first renewal, a continuing education course on human/labor trafficking and one on domestic violence are required. |
| Reciprocity | The board may license cosmetologists in good standing in another state or U.S. territory with similar education requirements who have passed a similar exam and pay the reciprocity fee; otherwise they may qualify to take the exam. |
How much does it cost?
| Initial license/renewal for cosmetologist | $50.00 |
|---|---|
| Delinquent renewal penalty | $50.00 |
| Application under reciprocity or UROLA | $55.00 |
| Duplicate license | $10.00 |
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 Mississippi
- Meet the age and tenth-grade (or college enrollment) requirement
- Complete 1,500 hours at a licensed cosmetology school or 3,000 apprenticeship hours
- Apply to the board with the fee and two passport-style photos
- Pass the board examination (a temporary permit of up to 6 months is available after completing hours)
- Receive your 2-year license
- Complete the trafficking and domestic violence courses before your first renewal
How do you check a cosmetologist's license in Mississippi?
- Ask for the license number and confirm it with the Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering.
- 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.