How to become a cosmetologist in Nebraska
Nebraska cosmetologists are licensed by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Licensure Unit (with the Board of Cosmetology, Electrology, Esthetics, Nail Technology, and Body Art). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed cosmetologist in Nebraska, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a cosmetologist in Nebraska?
- At least 17 years old by the exam date
- High school education or equivalent
- U.S. citizenship or lawful presence
- Graduate of a school or licensed apprentice salon program
Nebraska cosmetologist license requirements
| Licensed by | Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Licensure Unit (with the Board of Cosmetology, Electrology, Esthetics, Nail Technology, and Body Art) |
|---|---|
| License name | Cosmetologist |
| Education or training | Minimum 1,800 hours at a school of cosmetology or licensed apprentice salon. |
| Exam | NIC written examination only (no hands-on practical), computer-based through PSI after DHHS e-mails an approval-to-test letter; exam fee paid directly to PSI; 75% average required. |
| License term | Biennial; cosmetologist licenses expire December 31 of even-numbered years. |
| Continuing education | 8 hours of continuing education in the 24 months before expiration, at least 4 in the license's scope of practice; not required for those first licensed during the current cycle. |
| Reciprocity | DHHS may license applicants currently licensed by examination in another jurisdiction who meet the age and education rules and the hour requirement (school/apprentice hours plus 100 hour-equivalents per month of full-time practice in the last five years); if no exam was required elsewhere, the Nebraska exam must be taken. |
How much does it cost?
| Initial license (issued Jan-Jun of even years, or any month of odd years) | $95 |
|---|---|
| Initial license (issued Jul-Dec of even years) | $25 |
| Active renewal | $118 |
| Reinstatement | $153 |
| Fee waiver | Initial and temporary license fees waived for applicants aged 17-25, low-income individuals and military families |
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 Nebraska
- Complete at least 1,800 hours at a school of cosmetology or a licensed apprentice salon and get your diploma
- Gather proof of lawful presence, high school diploma/GED and school diploma; have your school complete Attachment 1
- Mail the application by examination with the license fee (or fee waiver proof) to the DHHS Licensure Unit
- Wait for the e-mailed approval-to-test letter, then schedule and pay for the NIC written exam with PSI
- Pass the exam (75%); DHHS issues the license after receiving the official score
- Renew every two years and complete 8 hours of continuing education each cycle
Apply on the official Nebraska site
How do you check a cosmetologist's license in Nebraska?
- Search the name or license number on the official Nebraska 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.